Recommended Camp Kit List

Young Person will need to bring their own personal equipment for camps. The following list is a guide to what is generally required, although the leader will usually supply more specific information as part of the camp information. It is strongly recommended that your young person packs their own kit.

Camp Kit List

Packed?ItemDescription
Y / NUniformYoung personal should always arrive and leave in uniform.
Y / NWaterproof coat (or warm coat and cagoule)Depending on the time of year, you may want to bring a waterproof top and trousers - as we can't predict the weather!
Y / NHat, gloves and peaked capWith so much body heat lost through the head in winter, a woolly / fleece hat is essential. A peaked cap will help prevent heatstroke and is best for summer
Y / NWarm jumpers or fleecesEven in summer, it gets cold in the evening.
Y / NShirts/tee-shirtsEnough for the duration of camp. Several layers are warmer than one thick one, and layers can be regulated temperature more efficiently.
Y / NTrousersEnough for the duration of camp. It is advised jeans are not taken to camp as these get too wet.
Y / NShortsEnough for the duration of the camp.
Y / NActivity clothing (as required)Bring appropriate clothing for the planned activities. If it is going to be muddy or wet, then bring old clothes, including footwear and plenty of spare clothes.
Y / NUnderwear and socksEnough for camp plus spares. Note there is nothing worse than cold, wet feet on a wet and muddy hike, so take plenty of pairs of socks.
Y / NSwimming costumeIf any water activities planned.
Y / NHiking bootsGood, strong walking boots are essential. Boots give better ankle support and usually have better soles than shoes if you are hiking. If you don't wear a decent pair, your feet will let you know!
Y / NSleeping bagStuff-sac based types are much more compact than sleepover types. Suppose camping September to June then a 3 season, with a 2-season minimum for summer. Synthetic filled bags are easier to clean than natural filling. Zips can be a source of cold if no baffle is fitted over the zip.
Y / NPillowAir pillows are good, as full-size pillows take up a lot of space. You can always take an empty pillowcase and fill it with clothes at night!
Y / NRoll mat or airbedIt keeps you off the ground at night, and therefore warmer.
Y / NBlanket (if required)Placed between a sleeping bag & sleeping mat, this can help keep you warmer. Buy a "camp" blanket and use it to display badges & wear it around the campfire.
Y / NTea Towel(s)One or two, depending on the length of the camp.
Y / NNightwearEven in summer, it can get cold at night. Strongly recommend day clothes are not worn at night, your young person will feel cold, and sleeping bags need cleaning more often.
Y / NWash kit (flannel, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste)Keep in a waterproof bag. Using soap and toothbrush containers is a good idea to keep everything separate.
Y / NTowel(s)Needed after heavy rain, falling in water, swimming or (just maybe) after washing!
Y / NBrush/combIf required.
Y / NHankies/tissuesSmall packs are ideal.
Y / NPersonal hygiene productsAs required.
Y / NMedicationMust be included on the camp information form and handed into leaders, to be kept in our medicine chest.
Y / NRucksackWe suggest 65 litre or larger for Scouts and for Beavers and Cubs a holdall, much more practical than a suitcase. Don't forget the thick plastic liner, in case of rain.
Y / NPlastic bags or sacks for dirty washing/bootsPlease note that black bin bags, although very suitable, can look like a bag of rubbish if left unattended on a field; we would recommend coloured plastic bags.
Y / NNamed refillable drinks bottleMake sure it's leakproof. Never take fizzy drinks. If it's cold, don't carry on the outside of your bag.
Y / NSpare trainersFor if footwear gets wet or for indoor use.
Y / NCoat hangerFor your uniform.
Y / NBook or quiet gameUseful if your young person wants some quiet time.
Y / NSun creamImportant in summer and winter depending on the weather.
Y / NTorch and spare batteriesHead torches are increasingly popular. Do not pack your torch with batteries fitted (or at the bottom of your kit) as it could easily get accidentally turned on, and you will arrive at the camp/holiday with flat batteries.
Y / NWatchA cheap one that can cope with getting wet is a good idea.
Y / NPersonal First Aid KitKeep an eye on use-by dates. You don't need to buy an expensive ready-made kit - put your own together.
Y / NPen/pencil and notepad
Y / NPocket moneyTo be handed into Leaders before leaving for camp or on arrival if travelling directly to camp.

Notes

  1. The Scout Group cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to any personal effects, and the Scout Association does not provide automatic insurance for such items.
  2. If your young person requires medication while on the camp, please hand it to a leader in a named container, giving full details of the medication required and a letter signed by the parent permitting one of the Leaders to administer this medication.
  3. All equipment and clothing must be clearly marked with the owner’s name; engraving or permanent ink is far better than nail varnish or stuck on labels.
  4. A certain amount of pocket money is recommended. Money may be handed to the camp leader for safety and given out as required. The Scout Group is otherwise not responsible for losses.
  5. Please do not include any mobile phones, electronic games, radios or MP3 players.
  6. Scouts Section only can bring penknives if they have passed their hand-axe and knife training before the event. Knives must be handed in so that they can be locked away.
  7. Aerosols, matches, lighters, gas, and other flammable liquids must never be taken to camps; these are dangerous and unnecessary.
  8. Young person kit should be packed in a holdall or rucksack. There must be no loose items. Line the kit bag with a plastic bag.
  9. Due to the nature of camps and activities, it is advisable to wear old clothing and footwear as there is a good chance they will get very wet, dirty and/or damaged.
  10. Earrings, nose rings, and other decorative jewellery are not recommended for camps and activities.