Uniform Items
Pack the uniform items that are required or that you anticipate using. A short-sleeved khaki shirt, green pants or shorts, belt and socks are minimum uniform attire. The neckerchief, neckerchief slide and OA sash are optional items. Be sure to bring more than one pair of scout socks.
Clothing
Having extra clothing is very important during any camping trip and is part of the 10 essentials. During Boy Scout camp, the chances of your clothing getting soiled or wet are pretty good, so pack extra. For a five-day trip, pack a minimum of six pairs of socks, six T-shirts, six pair of underwear, two pair of long pants, four pair of shorts, a bathing suit, one sweatshirt or jacket and something to sleep in. Bring a good pair of hiking boots or shoes that are already broken in. Pack an extra pair of shoes such as a pair of moccasins or tennis shoes. Do not pack open-toe sandals or shoes.
Toiletries
Toiletries should fit in their own mesh bag or toiletry bag that can be carried to the bathhouse or showers easily. Everything needed to get cleaned up should be in this bag, including soap in a waterproof container or bag, a toothbrush and toothpaste, a comb or brush, deodorant and shampoo. Other toiletry items to pack include three towels and washcloths, tissues or handkerchiefs and shaving cream and a razor, if needed. If the camp you are attending is offering swimming, make sure one of your towels is a beach towel.
The 10 Essentials
Camping at a Boy Scout Camp is typically a very controlled environment. However, it is recommended that for any trip you always carry these 10 essentials in your pack. The 10 essentials are: a pocket knife or multi-tool, a first-aid kit, extra clothing, a flashlight with extra batteries, rain gear such as a poncho, a water bottle, a map and compass, matches or fire starter, sun protection and sunglasses, and trail mix or other high energy trail food. Many Boy Scouts have adopted this Mountaineer's Creed and carry these items anytime they leave the beaten path.
Bedding
A good night's sleep is important at camp. Whether your camp is supplying the shelter or you are sleeping in your own tent, always pack your own bedding. Pack a sleeping pad, sleeping bag and a pillow at a minimum. Optionally, pack a twin sheet for cover on top of your sleeping bag on warm summer nights.
Camping Gear
All scout camps are different and it is critical that you understand what you are expected to bring. Some will shelter scouts in bunkhouses, other camps do not have shelters and everyone sleeps in their own tents. Check with your scoutmaster if you are unsure whether or not to pack a tent.
In addition to the 10 essential items, pack any medications you may need, insect repellant, sunscreen, the Boy Scout Handbook and any merit badge pamphlets you are working on. Pack a notebook and pencil, a camera, a musical instrument if you play one, a small folding chair if desired and a small amount of spending money for the trading post. The amount of spending money brought will depend on extra activities, merit badge programs and souvenirs desired. Check with the camp or your scoutmaster if you have any questions.
Things to Leave Home
There are several things that are prohibited from camp or will make your trip to camp less fun. Do not bring electronic devices such as game systems and MP3 players to camp. Axes, non-folding sheath knives, fireworks and weapons of any kind are usually prohibited from Boy Scout camp.
