Think about camping as your “home away from home”. This list is meant to help you prepare for your first campout. As you become a more experienced camper, you may wish to add or omit certain items. If you don’t have something on this list, ask around. Other members of the Pack may be able to lend an item or help you think of an alternative.

Items to Pack

Home

• Tent with poles, stakes, and ground cloth
• Folding chairs or camp chairs (one per person)
• Flashlights or lamps (one per person)
• Plastic trash bags (for bringing home wet or dirty gear)

Bedroom

• Sleeping bags (check that thermal rating is sufficient)
• Pillows
• Air mattress or sleeping pad

Bathroom

• Medications (in original packaging & properly secured)
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Toilet paper (usually available but it’s good to be prepared)
• Environmentally friendly soap and wash cloth
• First aid kit
• Hairbrush or comb
• Shampoo and towel (if planning to shower)

Kitchen

• Mess kit – cup, bowl, plate, knife, fork, spoon, & mesh bag
• Water bottle
• Reusable cup for coffee or hot chocolate
• Dish soap
• Snacks
• Food and food prep equipment if needed (the Pack typically provides dinner Saturday night and breakfast Sunday morning)

Closet

• Class B Uniform (Yellow T-shirt)
• Cub Scout hat
• Socks, underwear, pants, shirts, pajamas
• Poncho or other rain gear
• Weather-appropriate coat or jacket
• Sturdy closed-toed shoes
• Swimsuit and towel (if applicable)

Miscellaneous

• Sunscreen and bug spray
• Whistle
• Sunglasses
• Extra batteries for flashlights & lamps
• Scout handbook
• Outdoor activities (frisbee, football, soccer ball, etc.)
• Rainy day activities (deck of cards, games, etc.)

More Information

Scout Life Packing Checklist for Overnight Campouts

BSA Printable Campout Checklist