10 Essentials for your backpack

Before every camping trip, a scout or scouter will ask, “What do I need to bring?” Well, each trip is a little different, but one thing remains the same: the 10 Essentials.

10 Scouting Essentials:

1. Pocketknife or multi-tool
2. Rain Gear
3. Snack
4. Flash light
5. Extra clothing
6. First-aid kit (including a whistle)
7. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, lip balm)
8. Map & compass
9. Matches & fire starter
10. Water bottle

You may be thinking, Hey! It’s the 21st century. Aren’t there a few more essentials? Absolutely!

1. Cell phone (and a power bank if you will need to recharge).
2. Handheld GPS (and a few extra batteries). A map and compass are great, but the accuracy of a reliable GPS is far better.
3. Pen or pencil

You may be thinking, Hey! I’m a girl. Aren’t there a few more essentials? As a female scouter, here are a few more items I consider essentials:

1. Bandanna
2. Feminine hygiene products
3. A FUD

While almost all of the listed items are good to have on every outing (especially the outdoor outings), be smart and use common sense when considering what items will be appropriate for a specific outing. Depending on where you’re going, some of the items will not be allowed. For example, having a pocket knife with you is a good way to be detained at a museum, airport, or government building.

Be smart and be prepared.