Equipment & Gear

Pack 612 Suggested Outdoor Gear List

Cub Scouting includes plenty of opportunities to hike, camp, fish, explore, and spend time outdoors. Having the right gear can make these adventures safer and more enjoyable for Scouts and their families.

Families do not need to purchase everything at once. Gear needs will vary depending on the activity, weather, and location. Pack 612 will provide a specific packing list whenever an event requires something beyond these common items.

Everyday Outdoor Essentials

These items are useful for most Pack outings, hikes, day trips, and outdoor activities:

• Backpack or Day Pack

• Closed-toed shoes or hiking shoes

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Hat or cap

• Rain jacket or poncho

• Extra socks

• Light jacket or warm layer

• Personal medications, when needed

• Small trash bag or zip-top bags for wet or dirty items

Cub Scout Six Essentials

Every Scout should become familiar with carrying the Cub Scout Six Essentials when heading outdoors:

• Flashlight or Headlamp
  A headlamp is especially useful because it keeps both hands free.

• Filled Water Bottle
  A durable reusable bottle works well. Label it with your Scout’s name.

• Sun Protection
  Sunscreen, along with a hat or other sun protection. Bug repellent is also recommended when appropriate.

• Whistle
  For emergency use only.

• Trail Food or Snack
  Choose something lightweight and easy to carry, such as trail mix, granola bars, dried fruit, or another Scout-friendly snack.

• Personal First Aid Kit

Suggested Personal First Aid Kit

A Scout’s first aid kit should be small enough to fit inside their day pack. Consider including:

• 6 adhesive bandages

• 2 sterile gauze pads

• Medical tape

• Moleskin for blisters

• Hand sanitizer

• Triple antibiotic ointment

• Small scissors

• Non-latex gloves

• Pencil and small notepad

Parents should handle any medications or specialized medical supplies appropriate for their child.

Camping Gear

For Pack campouts and overnight activities, families may also need:

• Sleeping bag appropriate for expected temperatures
  A bag rated around 20°F or lower can provide flexibility for cooler mountain nights.

• Foam or inflatable sleeping pad

• Tent

• Tent ground cloth or footprint

• Pillow or small camp pillow

• Hygiene kit

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Soap

  • Deodorant as appropriate

  • Comb or brush

  • Personal toiletries

• Mess kit

  • Plate

  • Bowl or cup

  • Fork, spoon, and/or spork

• Rain gear

• Warm jacket or fleece

• Gloves

• Beanie/toboggan

• Extra change of clothes

• Extra socks and underwear

• Sleepwear

• Camp chair

• Towel or quick-dry towel

• Shower shoes, when facilities are available

• Dirty-clothes bag

Helpful Family Camping Items

These are not necessarily required for every trip, but families often find them useful:

• Folding camp chairs

• Small lantern

• Extra flashlight or headlamp

• Spare batteries

• Portable phone battery/power bank

• Cooler

• Reusable water jug

• Camp table

• Extra tarp

• Rope or utility cord

• Waterproof storage tote

• Trash bags

• Paper towels

• Wet wipes

• Hand sanitizer

• Insect repellent

• Extra blankets

• Earplugs

• Small broom and dustpan for the tent

Cold or Wet Weather

Mountain weather can change quickly, so layering is important. For cooler or wetter outings, consider:

• Moisture-wicking base layer

• Fleece or insulating layer

• Waterproof outer layer

• Warm hat

• Gloves

• Extra wool or synthetic socks

• Waterproof shoes or boots

• Dry change of clothing kept in a waterproof bag

Avoid relying on cotton clothing in cold or wet conditions, since it holds moisture and can make it harder to stay warm.

A Few Helpful Tips

Label your Scout’s belongings whenever possible. Pack clothing and important items in zip-top bags, dry bags, or waterproof stuff sacks to help keep them organized and dry.

Most importantly, check the event information before packing. Pack 612 will let families know when a particular outing requires specialized equipment or when certain items will be provided by the Pack.