Stay away from Army surplus equipment

Backpacks: The backpack is one of the most important pieces of equipment for the Scout. It is extremely important that the Scout have a proper fitting pack and frame in order to comfortably carry his gear. Regardless of the pack you buy, make sure it has a padded hip belt and is fitted so that the weight of the pack is on the hips and not the shoulders. We strongly recommend that you stay away from the cheaper packs.

Webbing: The bulky gear that a Scout carries, such as sleeping bags and tents, must be lashed securely to the cross bars of the pack frame. More often than not, the Scouts do not attach this gear properly. Bungee cords or other elastic cords are not allowed in Troop 80. The proper way is to use webbing straps with good, non-slip buckles that can be cinched tightly. Four straps 36" to 48" in length and 3/4" to 1" in width are recommended..

Hiking Boots: Boots are not as much a problem as in the past. Shoe stores carry the new lightweight biking boots. These are adequate for the beginning Scouts, but for high adventure programs, more substantial boots may be required. Whatever the choice, Troop 80 requires that the boot extend over the ankle to provide adequate support. The official Boy Scout boots, obtainable at BSA Scout Shops, are good but the cost is usually high. Scouts are not allowed to hike in sneakers. However, sneakers may be brought and worn as "camp shoes" while in camp.

Socks & Sock Liners: We recommend a moisture-wicking type hiking sock (synthetic fibers, wool or wool/synthetic) and polypropylene sock liners. Cotton socks are not recommended because they retain moisture, leading to blisters.

Sleeping Bag: Get a nylon mummy style bag that stuffs into a carrying bag. Avoid the heavy cotton roll-up style. Some of the bags sold at sporting goods are adequate for this climate. Buy a bag with batted insulation. Temperature ratings are based on wearing thermal underwear and a stocking hat; a rating of 20ºF is suitable for this area.

Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad can make sleeping more comfortable, and is especially useful in cold weather, as it prevents heat loss to the ground. There are several types, such as a fold-up or roll-up closed-cell foam pad, or a self-inflating foam pad. Thermarest™ is a popular brand.

Canteen: Get a one-quart, wide-mouth plastic bottle. Do not get the kind with a long straw-like spout in the lid. These are strictly forbidden as they leak badly. Avoid army surplus canteens, or the types that hang on shoulder straps or attach to the belt. "Nalgene™" brand canteens are a popular choice.

Rainwear: Scouts need rainwear. A nylon windbreaker will do for light drizzle, but for anything harder, a Scout should have something more waterproof. Many Scouts use ponchos, others use rain suits. Gore-tex™ rain suits are breathable and waterproof, but can be very expensive.

Compass: We recommend Silva™, Suunto™ or Cammenga™ brand compasses. There are many models beginning around $10. Those with a sighting device are best, but more expensive.

Flashlight: Should be small enough to be held in the mouth so that the hands are left free. We recommend each Scout carry at least one flashlight with a spare set of batteries on overnight trips. "Mag-Lite™" is a popular brand and can be purchased with a holster for around $ 10.00.

Plastic Bags: Use heavy-duty zip-lock style plastic bags to waterproof individual items going into the backpack. One- and Two-gallon sizes are available at most grocery stores. A large trash bag can be used as a backpack cover if no backpack cover is available. All clothing and gear should be in plastic bags.

Cold Weather Camping: For winter camping we do not recommend a heavy coat or parka, although this is the Scout's option. Rather, we recommend the layered approach, which allows the Scout to peel down or add layers as the temperature changes. We suggest the following layers:

Thermal underwear- no cotton as this retains sweat and causes chilling
Shirt
Heavy wool shirt, jacshirt or pullover wool or synthetic sweater
Vest
Windbreaker or waterproof jacket (with hood)
Gloves
Wool or synthetic stocking cap
Sleeping pad