Our troop has a campout each and every month. Come rain, snow, or shine. Even during the time of social distancing and quarantine we camped at home. Each scout knows, and is required to have their ten essentials in their pack at every camp out or hike. One thing to keep in mind when shopping for your ten essentials is that you do not always need the top of the line / most expensive gear. A scout is thrifty. The $5 water bottle holds exactly the same amount of water as the $30 water bottle. I am a little picky on the pocket knife and flashlights. It’s usually best to pick out a good quality knife and flashlight… unless you or your scout is prone to loosing them on every activity.

Here is a short video going over the essentials you should pack for all campouts and hikes.

Scout 10 Essentials

1. Pocket Knife

   • Cutting ropes and cord

   • Whittling

   • Opening Items

   • Survival Needs

2. First Aid Kit

   • Bandages

   • Gloves

   • Antiseptic Wipes

   • Ointment

3. Extra Clothing

   • Jacket

   • Coat

   • Hat

   • Gloves

4. Rain Gear

   • Rain Coat

   • Poncho

   • Rain Pants

   • Pack Cover

5. Water Storage

   • Disposable Bottle

   • Hydration Blatter

   • Hydro Flask

   • Collapsible Bottle

6. Flashlight / Headlamp

   • Handheld

   • Headlamp

   • Extra Batteries

7. Trail Food

   • Trail Mix

   • Granola Bars

   • Hard Candy

8. Matches / Fire Starters

   • Matches

   • Lighter

   • Ferro Rod

9. Sun Protection

   • Sunscreen

   • Hat

   • Long Sleeves

   • Sun Glasses

10. Map / Compass

    • Map

    • Compass

    • GPS Unit