Checklist for a basic warm-weather outing
You’re frantic. Panicked even. In exactly one hour, your troop is heading out the door on a warm-weather outing — and you’re struggling to pack. What clothes do you need to bring? How about extra gear?
No worries.
Just take a deep breath and use this handy checklist. In addition to the basic camping gear, you’ll also need:
- Socks
- Long-sleeved shirt (lightweight)
- Long pants (lightweight)
- Sweater or warm jacket
- Brimmed hat
- Bandana
- Rain gear
- Extra underwear (for longer trips)
WARM-WEATHER EXPERT ESSENTIALS:
From Mark Anderson, program director, Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, N.M.
- Water. “Always pack enough water depending on the climate and the availability of fresh water where you’ll be. Here in the desert Southwest, we suggest bringing four liters for the day. That works out to about a liter for every 1 to 1.5 hours of hiking.”
- Rain suit. “A good, quality rain suit will allow you to keep hiking and remain active around camp while still enjoying the experience.”
- Boots. “When backpacking, I prefer hiking boots over trail runner-type shoes—safety is the issue. Also make sure your boots fit correctly and are well broken in.”
- Backpack that fits. “Both internal- and external-frame backpacks work fine. The key is to test drive your pack on several short hikes before taking a long trip. This ensures that all of your pack adjustments are done properly.”
TWO THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED:
- Personal blister kit. “Even with well-broken-in boots and socks that you have hiked in before, you can still get a blister. Being able to take care of blisters early can ensure that it doesn’t negatively impact your trek. I even carry a blister kit on day hikes.” A good blister kit will include moleskin, adhesive tape, safety pins and antibiotic ointment.
- Parachute cord, 20 feet. “Parachute cord can be used for all sorts of things from backpack and tent repairs to a clothesline and replacement shoelaces.”
Great checklist. will use it
i am going to FSR (forestburg scout reservation) for a week with my troop but this doesnt really help do you have any other packing list
this insnt a bad idea im telling all my friends about this
ThanKS
mATT
this is realy going to be help ful
this is realy cool that you guys have this stuf on here to help the younger scouts
i took a 2 night, 17 mile trip by backpack, and my pack only weighed 27 lbs. try dried and freeze dried food. real weightsaver.
I think 27 lb. is pretty heavy
Hi Im new to scouting and needed this big time now I won’t be rushed. A good Idea my friend told me is if you have an extra pack pre stock it with the seentials for the season.
take only what you need. a lighter backpack makes the trip a lot funner. for an overnight campout and 3 mile hike my badlands 2500 wieghed only 21 lbs and i was compfy in camp. thats with all my water, there was no water scource.
It was very helpful. I used to frantically search for what I needed before a camp out. Now, I can just look at this and know what to bring!
I liked your idea about the Parachute cord,I never would have thought of something like that but I can see many uses for it.
Thanks,
T