Item

Description

Scouts Handbook

The Scout Handbook. First copy included in Scouting fee

Notebook and Pencil

Needed at meetings and campouts.

Scout Scarf and Toggle/Woggle/Slide

Initially the Scout will receive the red BSA scarf when he becomes a Scout.  Upon completing the requirements for Tenderfoot, he receives the official Troop Scarf.  Both are supplied free, as part of the Scouting fee, replacements are charged for.

Scout Shirt

These are required and are available with either long or short sleeves from the Quartermaster. The cost depends on the size.

Scout Cap and Belts

Not a requirement, it is up to the individual Scout if he wants them.

Available from the Quartermaster.

Hiking Boots

Good quality ones with Gore-Tex that will keep feet dry and comfortable are a MUST. Scouts cannot camp in snow or hike with cold wet sore feet.

 Available from sports shops

Socks

Thick warm and comfortable we also recommend thin under socks, numerous pairs of both. Spares needed when camping

Gloves

Warm waterproof ones for winter campouts and other cold weather activities, thin ones for climbing

Anorak/Parka

Warm and waterproof.

Waterproof Jacket and Trousers

Fold away lightweight waterproof jacket and trousers that can be carried at all times.

 Available from all sports shops.

Poncho

A waterproof cover that protects both you and the backpack from the rain, Optional.

Trousers

Jeans are not recommended for camping because they do not dry quickly and therefore become cold and uncomfortable. Micro fibres are best.

Long Underwear

This can be very useful on winter campouts.

Hand, Feet and Body Warmers

These are multi-function warming pads which once opened will give heat for 7 – 20 hours depending on size. They can be used inside gloves, boots or sleeping bags if suffering from the cold.

Available for all sports shops.

Compass

This does not have to be an expensive model.

Available from any sports shop. 

Swiss Army Knife

The universal tool from cooking to carving; it is a necessity. No fixed blade knives allowed

Basic First Aid Kit

Can be made at home or bought. Migros has a good basic model that slides onto a belt; other types are available from pharmacists/chemists See page 289 for guidelines

Torch/Flashlight

A standard torch/flashlight for general use and also for signaling.

Whistle

Used for signaling, also needed in an emergency or in the event of getting lost.

Back Pack

The size depends on the activities the Scout intends taking part in, overnight camping requires a smaller one than a week’s camp. All types are available at sports shops, but to begin with, most boys have a backpack at home that will do.

Back Pack Cover

This is a waterproof cover, which fits over the backpack and keeps it dry when hiking (not a poncho).

 Available from all sports shops

Sleeping Bags

It is advisable to have a small lightweight summer bag and for winter campouts a sleeping bag that gives comfort down to -20°C. Lightweight ones are available from any sports shop.

Winter bags can be expensive. Very good ones are available from the Scout Shop and they do last for years.

Sleeping Bag Cover

This is a waterproof cover that the sleeping bag slides into when in use. It keeps the sleeping bag dry, so keeping you dry, as it is also wind proof it can add extra warmth. Available from sports shops.

Bed Roll

Either a roll up foam mattress or a blow up air mattress that packs no bigger than the foam type.  A blow up air mattress is the most comfortable but is more expensive!

 Available from all sport shops.

Trash/Bin Liners and Plastic Bags

Very useful to line the inside of backpack to keep clothes from getting wet, to put dirty, wet, smelly clothes in or put inside hiking boots if  leaking etc.

Mess Kit

Consisting of a plate, bowl, mug, and cutlery, the best are cutlery camping sets, a knife, fork and spoon that fit together in a small holder.

Cook Kit

Containing  lightweight pans and plate set

Include a  single gas burner and small gas bottle for individual cooking

Water Bottle

This can be anything from a plastic bottle to an aluminum bottle in an insulated holder, i.e. SIGG or Big Bear. Available for all sports shops.