A guide to the camp kit list

Make sure you bring clothes you don’t mind getting a bit muddy or smelling of campfire smoke.

Many parts of camp are active – make sure you have clothes you are comfortable running around and climbing in.

Denim is not recommended for outdoor camps – they get heavy and cold when wet.

The quantities on the list factor in spare pairs, in case of wet or cold. Feel free to bring more, but not less.

This can vary for different camps – always check the kit list.

For most camps we recommend having hiking boots. These are ideal for any camps where the ground is damp, as well as camps with hiking or axing in the programme. Take a look at GO Outdoors’ Walking Boots Buying Guide.

For warmer camps, trainers are usually good enough to wear. However, having a spare pair of hiking boots in your tent means you’re prepared for any sudden downpours (it is Britain after all). You can wrap them in a plastic bag to keep your kit clean.

Wellington boots can be a useful spare pair of shoes for muddy camps, but they should not be your only shoes. They are not good insulators and lots of site activities (such as climbing or high ropes) won’t allow wellies.

It’s also important to try on and break in any new shoes before camp. You don’t want to be wearing them for the first time on your nights away, as this can cause blisters.

The right sleeping bag can make all the difference. Take a look at Go Outdoors’ Sleeping Bag Buying Guide for expert guidance.

Sleeping bags are designed for different seasons and temperatures. They’re ranked by a scale of temperatures and conditions, which are: 

• 1 Season: Ideal for warmer summer nights above +5°C. 
• 2 Season: Ideal for cooler nights in the summer or spring, between 0 to +5°C.  
• 3 Season: Designed for colder nights without frost, between -5 to 0°C.

If you only intend to buy one sleeping bag, a 3-season bag is the way to go.

In addition, Scouts should bring a roll mat – this offers a layer of comfort and insulation between you and the cold floor that will help you get a better nights sleep.

The kit also includes a pillow (this can be one from home) and sometimes a blanket for colder nights away. (This could be be your own camp badge blanket – lots of scouts have these to sew on the camp badges they collect over the years).

On outdoor camps you will need a torch with spare batteries. If buying a new one, we recommend a headtorch which will free up your hands for night activities.

We always ask Cubs and Scouts to pack their own bags. This is so they know where everything is, and it also ticks off part of their Outdoor Challenge badge.

It is best to pack your kit in a camping bag, large rucksack or sports bag. Suitcases are not suitable for camping in tents.

All kit should be labelled with the Scouts name and group initials ‘2E’.

Unless specified, phones and electronic devices are not required and must not be brought. Should a Scout need to contact home during the week this can be done via a leader.