Scoutmaster‘s Advice:
We are a mountain, hiking capable Troop. Scouts need to pack light and have clothing and sleeping systems that cover changes between hot/sun, cold, wet/snow and wind. We therefore recommend using layered systems, which protect against all of the elements. Cotton against skin is to be avoided (cotton causes blisters and retains sweat) man-made micro fibres are the best.
See the Equipment List for all our recommendations.
Weight Limit
We have a fixed rule that a scout should not carry more than 25% of their body weight (if needed for short distances a scout can uncomfortably carry up to 30%).
Backpacks should be 50 litres, light and ideally with external pockets. Due to the added support and comfort, we tend to use backpacks with internal frames.
Packing Methods
During the year, the more experienced Scouts will show new Scouts how to improve their packing skills, cut down weight, and how to select items that work better. Very soon, each Scout will be taking pride in his own personal system built on his own requirements, budget and experience.
Equipment
The Equipment List page provides a comprehensive list of equipment that a Scout will need. More information and a complete equipment checklist can be found in the Boy Scout Handbook (pages 202-5 and 224/5).
Some Recommendations
We would recommend for comfort sleeping bags down to -20 degC for winter, and to -10 degC for summer, (even in summer the mountains can be cold). A lightweight sleeping bag may be more comfortable for warm summer camps. Mess kits, simple and with handles that can withstand heat are good.
We also encourage Scouts to be thrifty; this especially applies to scouts who have yet to go through their growth phase – choose less expensive items, unbranded yet sturdy. Use common sense; trainers will do in summer if your son is likely to grow three sizes in 12 months
A recommended camping shop is Athleticum in Meyrin. For higher quality and winter weight sleeping bags The Scout Shop. A list of other shops in the area is provided in Annex 5
Geoff Senogles, Scoutmaster gsenogles@lbcintl.com
Peter Rees – Gildea, Assistant Scoutmaster/Outdoor Coordinator peter.rees@ifrc.org
Steve Raven, Assistant Scoutmaster stephen.raven1@yahoo.com
Are available to help you with any questions you may have, do feel free to contact them.
