Recommended Gear List for Hiking / Backpacking*

The Essentials for Day Hikes (for safety, survival and basic comfort) The 10 Essentials:

Daypack for hikes - the hikes we are planning are from 5 - Cutting Tool 10 miles. The general rule of thumb is that kids shouldn't , multi-tool carry more than 12% of body weight, so pack weight is a factor. if there were two things I wouldnt cut corners on, it Personal First Aid Kit would be a good fitting pack and boots. Look for a pack that Band-aids, blister protection, has padded shoulder straps that are adjustable, waist belt medicine, EpiPen (if required) chest and compression straps, and dependable Insulation construction. Durability: In general, kids are pretty hard on Extra Socks, Clothing, fleece equipment so you really want a pack body to be made from a durable material such as Dimension Polyant, Dyneema, or Rain Gear Cordora. I recommend a different pack for hiking than the school book bag. Books for school can really tear up a pack and typical book bags are heavy and not designed for Water Bottle prolonged hikes (but they are better than string bags or 2 Liter Carried, filter or purification nothing). The Scout store has several lite packs that are good for day hikes. They currently have the Osprey Stratos Illumination 24 on sale and it is an exceptional pack for kids, with hip belt Flashlight or headlamp, extra and flex frame (better for back). http://www.scoutstuff.org. batteries in ziplock There are many outfitters that have sales from time to time - keep your eyes open. REI has a Under $40 Pack and Under Trail Food $24 pack that are both good deals, well made and have Nutritious waist belt. Ignition Source Matches, fire steel, tinder

Sun Protection Hat, sunglasses, sunblock

Navigation Compass (and Map)

Osprey Stratos 24 REI Trail 25 $40 REI Flash 18 $24

Knife - Boys love to collect and will attempt to carry as many as possible. Often however a “cool” is not a good tool. I recommend that you help your son save his money and learn that a knife is just a tool - not a status symbol. DO NOT GET A KNIFE MADE IN CHINA (which is what is stocked in the scout store - big disappointment) they are of very poor workmanship, do not keep an edge, and will likely break at a critical time! many in BSA discourage the use of sheath knives and in troop 79 we only use them for wilderness survival or woodcraft training (so they cant bring a out to most of the campouts. a lock blade is allowed (my rule of thumb is that its blade is shorter than the palm of the scoutʼs hand - Buck makes a good one). For some boys finger strength is an issue in opening a new pocket knife - for that a lock blade is better but usually within the first year as a scout that issue resolves. I recommend the (Swiss) Army Knife. I recommend the Tinker $27.00 or the Huntsman $42.00 (which has more features) http:// www.swissarmy.com/multitools/Pages/Category.aspx? category=scouting& you can order both engraved with your scoutʼs name - which is a nice touch for a knife that your son will have for life. For fixed blade knife I recommend the Light my fire Frost Mora Knife for under $35. it has a fire steel in the handle and is an exceptional knife that is easy for smaller hands to use. Again, with proper care it will last a lifetime.

First-aid kit - Troop 79 has several fully stocked med kits that we bring on all camping trips. Additionally, all injuries must be reported to Adult leaders (and we will determine if we need to treat). However, I recommend a small kit to deal with personal needs. Do not buy a special kit, there is often a lot of unnecessary items that the scouts dont need. this is a personal kit - not intended for sharing or rescue. What you want is about 5-10 medium sized band-aids, 5 x butterfly band-aids, 2 x large (2” x 4”) band-aids, 1 sheet (3” x 5”) moleskin, a small tube of antiseptic like neosporin, 3-4 individually packaged alchohol wipes, a helpful item is about 5 x individually wrapped ibuprofen tablets (use your judgement). I also like to have a after bite cream for dealing with mosquito and ant bites for itch relief. Place all in a durable waterproof bag and mark with Red Cross. a card inside with special instructions and contact information for the individual scout is also smart. Also bring whatever medication you require and inhalers or EpiPens for severe allergies.

Whistle - many brands - it doesnt really matter what type as long as it is meant for outdoor use and not a toy. the purpose is for signaling an emergency so loudness, and size are factors. Walmart (and several others outfiters) have a whistle compass, thermometer combo for around $9.00. there are also 5-1 whistle, match, compass, thermometer for $2.75 at http://www.survival- gear.com/survival-whistle.htm Insulation - any warm sweater / jacket will do but weight / size is a factor. should also get something that is wool, fleece, or synthetic COTTON DOES NOT DRY and can become a hazard. recommend a synthetic lightweight insulated jacket - they pack down in a stuff sack to about the size of a coke can and if you dont care about color you can get a good deal at REI, Campmore, or others. It would also be a good investment to get some Smartwool Hiking socks (two pair is fine) or other hiking sock that offers cushion and wicks moisture. Again cotton is a poor sock choice for hiking and will likely result in debilitating blisters over a long hike.

Water bottles - It is a good idea to carry about 2 liters of water distributed. you could use bottled water, a 32oz Nalgene Bottle $11.00 or other BPA free bottle (get one with volume marks to use as measuring cup), an Army canteen for a couple bucks (plastic not metal). It is a good idea to get two and one integrated metal cup (canteen cup $3.00 or metal cup for Nalgene Bottle $10.00 - that fits on the bottom of the bottle) http://www.cardinalgear.com/ for US Canteen or NATO Crusader Water Bottle. you can also use a Gatoraide bottle (rec 32 oz, 1 liter or 2 liter). Troop 79 allows the use of Camelbak type hydration kits during hikes but all Scouts need to have a 32oz / 1 liter bottle at a minimum - it is the only way we can tell how much water has been consumed and avoid heat injuries. This is required for all Troop 79 outings.

Headlamp - Many hikers use these exclusively instead of a flashlight. They are light, very versitile and hands free light is great on a night hike or when digging through your gear. one of the best Cheap head lamps is the Petzl Tikkina 2 Headlamp for $20.00 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___73079 I use a Petzl Tactikka XP Headlamp $58.00 which has a red flip filter (great for saving night vision and not causing too much light pollution) it also has a watertight battery box which uses AA bateries instead of more exotic types. you dont want a lot of moving parts. Ignition Source - The ability to start fires is an important piece of backpacking kit. on a long overnight or multi-day trip you should have two forms. dont waste your money on “waterproof” matches - but “boat” or Storm matches http://www.survival-gear.com/ windproof-matches.htm are a good option as is a cheep Bic lighter (with either option put the matches or Bic in a repurposed medicine bottle) but once an outdoorsman learns how, the best fire starting tool, in my opinion, is the Swedish Firesteel. the boyscout store has one for $13.00 http://www.scoutstuff.org/ but you can get one at any of the suppliers below, Blastmatch is a one hand option http:// www.cardinalgear.com/flintandsteel.html

Sun Protection - of course your scout should always bring a tube of sunblock (min 30 spf) and any hat will do. dry fast materials are better and a “boonie” or “bucket” style hat offers more protection than a baseball style hat. Sunglasses - doesnt have to be expensive but does need to have 100% UV protection. a protective case and retention lanyard are good ideas. wrap around style offers more protection and a shock resistant style (like most Oakleys) provides eye protection from tree branches, etc.

Compass - We will be doing a great deal of Compass navigation and it is good to have your own compass to train with and gain confidence. Walmart has basic compasses for $7.00 - $12.00. I would recommend a SUUNTO MD3 - $29.99 at the scout store or Silva Explorer III compass - $19.99. you can shop around there are places with better prices than the scout store (but you often get the scout logo on scout store products). Get a sport / orienteering style and not a lensatic. look for a model that has luminous markings, and is liquid filled. This is one of those items that you will get what you pay for.

Reflective blanket - this is a reflective Mylar blanket designed for cold weather emergencies and are designed to retain 90% of body temperature. They can come in versions with both sides reflective or one side in blaze orange (for signaling). You can pick one up for approx $2.00 at any camping store or at http://www.survival- gear.com/emergency-blanket.htm

Quick-dry towel - You can find these at almost any camping or sports store - get a large size. there are a variety of options, sizes, and prices. REI has a bunch of reviewed types from under $10.00 to $30.00 http://www.rei.com/search?query=pack +towels&button.x=0&button.y=0 Sanitation trowel - needed for business in the woods. plastic or metal is fine and folding types are available (good to keep weight down with a plastic one) just about anywhere form $2.00 - $10.00. you can get a nice one from REI for $5.00 http://www.rei.com/ search?query=trowel&button.x=0&button.y=0

Leather Gloves - Leather gloves are a safety item that also doubles for warmth when a fleece or wool glove liner is added. Boot waterproofing can be added for additional protection. they dont have to be expensive just a pair of all leather work gloves (sometimes called Driver gloves) that fits your Scout. You can get a pair from almost any Argi-supply or hardware store. Ace Hardware carries a goatskin pair for $17.00. DONT BUY A PAIR FROM CHINA - which is what Lowes and Home Depot carry. They are typically cheaper but flawed - and for this item its about supporting US industry:) US military D3-A leather gloves $13.00 are good but you may not be able to find kids sizes. Gloves are mandatory for survival training, primitive skills training, and woodcraft training.

Longer Trips 2 or 1 man Tent, Tarp or bivy sack (with stakes, guylines) - Some kind of shelter will be a necessity for over night trips. For Cub Scouts we will not backpack into an overnight location, but Scouts will and a tent is probably your biggest investment (along with Backpack and sleeping bag). So I would recommend a 2 man 3 season tent or Bivy Bag. There are many styles to choose ranging in price from a Coleman Sundome 2 man tent - $35.00 to a North Face Mountain 25 - $499.99. What you need is a sturdy but light tent (you are looking for less than 5lbs) that is easy to set up in the wind (no more than 3 poles) has good rain and mosquito protection. Sierra Designs, Eureka, MSR, Mountain hardware all have well made, highly rated backpack tents in the $100.00 range. LL Bean won Backpackers award last year with the Microlight FS-2 and FS-1 which both are under 4lbs and great tents for the price. A good tent will last a lifetime with proper care so its an important moment. I recommend going to a outdoors store like Bill Jacksonʼs in Pinellas Park or Gander Mountain in Ocala and ask to set the tent up (both of the above will let you) have your son do most of the work and then get in, pack it up and feel the weight. if you are looking for best price for quality trade Campmore http:// www.campmor.com has some great deals, like the Eureka backcountry II (seen in pic) or the cheapest (almost) 2 man tent I found the Wenzel StarLite Tent - Ultralight Solo for $25.00 (2d pic). I recommend aluminum or carbon fiber poles over other materials as fiberglass tends to fail at the time you need it most. Bivy Bags are another backpack option (cannot stand and change but really saves on the weight while still protecting from cold/wind, rain, and mosquitos). however, a decent one can sometimes cost more than a good one person tent.

Backpack and pack cover - you want to find the pack which is the most comfortable when holding the load you plan on carrying. Whatever pack you get I would suggest doing two things. First, go to a outdoor outfitter that employs experienced backpackers who can help you get a good fit or (See the insert on choosing a pack). The first step to select a pack which has the the right torso length. Typically you measure from the seventh vertebrae to the small of your back and see what size pack the manufacture suggestions. Second, you should place weight in the pack to simulate the sort of load you expect to carry and give it a try. But this is not always strait-forward since packs have multiple adjustments. That's why it is important to go somewhere that has experience sales personnel. A great pack which is poorly fit can be more uncomfortable that a cheap pack which fits you. Finally, check with local stores to find out if it is possible to rent the pack you like for a weekend or has a great return policy like REI. This could save you from buying a pack which seemed good in the showroom but isn't comfortable after a hard day of use. I can't stress enough how important getting a comfortable backpack can be. Other than your footwear, no other piece of gear is as likely to ruin a fun trip than a backpack which isn't comfortable or which has a strap break. I would recommend that you do not scrimp on your pack. There has been a debate running since at least the 1970s as to whether internal or external frame packs are better. I doubt this debate will ever end. Bottom line here is that this pack is for a 9-10 yr old boy and you are no doubt looking for a pack that will serve his needs now, and for about the next 4-5 years. Both styles work but external frames tend to be heavier. You need to get a backpack which has an adjustable torso length. External frame packs tend to be highly adjustable. Deuter, VauDe, and Kelty each make at least one kids size internal frame pack with a highly adjustable suspension. Boy scouts typically share equipment, food, etc. This means that even if all your child's personal gear is ultra-light, the group might end up bringing 8lb tents and you will need to take your fair share. For smaller kids, there are only a few pack which have a torso short enough, a waist strap which can be tightened enough, and has enough volume for all their gear (need at least 1800ci). I recommend checking out the following packs: Deuter Fox 30 (torso 10-17", 2lb 10oz, 1,850ci, $79): Very comfortable for most kids. The torso length is easily adjustable with a pretty wide range as does the hip strap (goes down to 22"). Good size for kids who are carrying their own gear, but adults are carrying food and shared items. Very durable material. Two side pockets and top pocket provide some organizational features. Back pocket and side mesh pockets are close to useless. You can strap a pad on vertically running ties through the retaining straps for the top lid. Kelty Junior Tioga (torso 9-14", 3 lb 3 oz 2050ci, $89.95): External frame pack for small kids. Osprey Sprint Series: A number of full featured packs that weight ~3-4lbs. My opinion is that the Sprint Youth Ace 48 for $149 is one of the best youth packs that will grow with them over the next few years. As an older teen / adult this pack should still be servicable and make a great light pack. STRONGLY RECOMMEND. REI Comet (11.5 - 15.5", 2lb 8oz, 2,250 ci, $89.50): Looks like a pretty well designed pack for smallest kids. It is important to get a pack cover to shed rain from soaking into the pack. A dry bag / stuff sack or heavy trash bag should be inside the pack.

Stove - Weight, simplicity, versatility, and fuel are the factor with a backpack stove. For Boys I advise against the liquid gas stoves but the MSR Wisperlite Internationale Hiker Stove $89.95 is a great liquid multifuel stove (that can burn almost anything from alcohol to jet fuel) http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___87723 the stove itself packs very small and Light but you have to have a fuel bottlethat is about the same size as a Nalgene. A great, simple, and light gas stove is the Jetboil Personal Iso-Butane Cooking System $80.00 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/ Product___87255 the stove and a fuel canister pack into the locking thermo-efficient cooking cup and this super fuel efficient stove is a push button light which boils a pint of water in under a min - easier than breathing. the Jetboil is designed for the minimalist who wants to move fast and not mess about with cooking However, its not so go at frying eggs, etc (ie with the Jetboil you pretty much have to boil everything - you can do omletts in a ziplock). You can get a simple coleman Coleman Exponent F1 UltraLight Stove $40.00 or a Primus ClassicTrail Stove that both burn an easily obtainable gas fuel and are suitable to the task.

Cookset (with pot grabber) - there are hosts of decent cook sets out there the main thing you need to check is does it fit on your stove and allow you to cook what youʼre likely to eat. If you have a Jetboil you really only need mixing bowls, otherwise you may want a pot to boil water (rice, stew, soup, noodles), a small pan to fry in (if you get a nonstick you wont be able to cook in open fire), and a tea pot (covered canister pot with crimp spout). All need to have some way to lift lids, etc (pot grabber) - Titanium is a good lightweight alternative. All around I would recommend the GSI Outdoors Hard Anodized Extreme Cook Set - Medium, $70.00 http:// www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___82414 or the Backcountry.com Titanium Cookset - 1100ml, $54.00 http:// www.backcountry.com/backcountry-titanium-cookset-1100ml. or you could go with a surplus US ARMY mess kit for $10.00 (good dish and fry pan no pot)

Cups (measuring cups) - Backpack camping is all about multi- function kit, packing light, and being as comfortable as possible. Most backpack cups have volume graduation marks in floz and ml. Cups that nest take up less space and metal cups can be used to boil water or cook. However, most metal cups are not insulated and warm bev / soup cool more rapidly. If you are using Army 1 Qt canteens or NATO Crusader Water Bottle the canteen cups designed for those are an excellent and inexpensive choice. a metal cup designed for the Nalgene Waterbottle is the Olicamp Spacesaver Cup, $10.00. GSI Outdoors Fairshare Mug, $10.00 (capacity 32 floz weight 7.5 oz) is my recommendation for an insulated mug. In extreme cold temps (we are planning on going to Okpik - a cold weather snow camp) you dont want to drink out of metal so an insulated cup like the Fairshare is needed.

Utensils - If your looking for a stocking stuffer Iʼm a big fan of the camp spork and got a titanium one that is awesome for $14.00 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___87550. You may also need a spatula, and whisk if you are cooking eggs, pancake, etc. I personally hate the folding ones that are designed for backpackers and just got a small spatula at walmart and cut down the handle to fit in my pan. chop sticks are also good depending whats on the menu.

Sleeping bag - in winter most boys will need a 30o bag, mummy style and for a backpacker weight and size are the qualifiers. During the rest of the year you really could get away with a ultralight bag like the Slumberjack Minaret, $30.00 or a Snugpack. http://www.uscav.com/productinfo.aspx? productid=6805&TabID=548&cs=1 with a goretex shell. I find that from March - Sep I often can get away with an Army issue poncho liner for under $20.00 http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/ BJR536-1.html and when it gets chilly I can pull on a Gortex shell

Sleeping pad - Insulation from the ground is more important than the insulation in the sleeping bag. Again, packed bulk, weight, comfort and durability are the factors. There are two basic types foam and inflated. For general camping where weight is not a factor I would recommend foam for scouts (they tend to be hard on equipment) but when weight is a factor (and for backpacking it always is) Thermarest makes a couple good options for inflatables.

Water filter or other treatment system - For an extended trip this could be a critical piece of gear. Short of boiling water, natural water sources must be purified using iodine tablets or a micro-filter (capable of defeating giardia and crypto. I recommend the Katadyn Hiker Pro, $80.00 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/ Product___81917 or the MSR Miniworks EX, $80.00 http:// www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___87779. We will always have several of these with troop gear or one of the adult leaders. But as your scout grows older and wants to hike on their own this is something they will need - I include it for info purposes.

* A quick note - after looking this over your probably thinking “heʼs cracked - this cost way too much”. Your right. dont buy it all at once and look for sales. most of my kit Iʼve assembled over years. What I dont want to see anybody do is spend a lot of money on sub par gear that wont cut it or be wrong for your scout. Any questions feel free to grill me.

Clothes - its all about layering and getting down to essentials we are planning to go to a cold weather campout. Remember its Florida - but last year we got down to 30o

Boots or shoes suited to terrain - Im talking about for hiking and backpacking. here are two resources that will talk you through proper boot sizing http://www.rei.com/learn/ expert-advice/hiking-boots.html and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrA1bsvy3jU

Socks (synthetic or wool) plus spares - Cant emphasize enough right socks AND right shoes are a system. a pair a day is right for camp and light hike, On long hikes and backpacking, expect to go through two pair a day - but socks can be washed in some water and pack soap, so... as a rule of thumb I go with 5 pair and pack a small bottle of soap for laundry if Im out more than 3 days. Smartwool make a good option in kids sizes.

Packable Rain Jacket - Go for lightweight but keeps you dry Rainpants or Goretex Shell Pants

Sun-shielding hat

Bandana

Wicking T-shirt (synthetic or merino wool) - two pair will get you through

Wicking long-sleeve T-shirt - One only

Wicking underwear - underarmour compression boxer jock style protect from chaffing bet than anything - they have boys sizes. one pair a day (over three day trip backpacking must do laundry)

Wicking long underwear (good sleepwear). would only get base layer or silkweight for FL

Quick-drying pants and shorts - Buying only convertible pants in green is a good way to go. two pair for backpacking is what I recommend (one on, one in the pack - if you get two of the same style/size and only carry one pair of zip legs you save space/weight). you want to get pair that feels comfortable with long underwear on under.

Long-sleeve shirt (for sun, bugs) - lightweight quick dry material, button up (layering). Light colors are better for keeping mosquitos away. skullcap, balaclava or knit hat Glove liners (Merino Wool or Fleece) Fleece or insulated jacket - Puffball or synthetic fill Fleece or insulated vest

Beyond the Essentials Binoculars Field guide(s); Wildlife, Plants, etc Star identifier Field Notebook and pen or pencil GPS Pack Pillow or Stuffable Pillow Case Flashlight Signaling Mirror $12.00 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___70109 Nylon cord (50 feet for hanging food), $6.99 per 100ʼ http://www.armysurplusworld.com/ display.asp?subDepartmentID=300&gclid=CPOC1LiBwqQCFYjt7QodDjPcCA Trekking poles or walking stick, $40.00 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/ Product___27935 Packable lantern, $30.00 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___92380 Survival Playing Cards, $6.95 http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___12711 http://www.rei.com/outlet http://www.backcountry.com http://www.campmor.com http://www.gandermountain.com http://www.scoutstuff.org http://www.uscav.com http://www.cabelas.com