HIKING GEAR REQUIRED CHECKLIST

2 liters water….thermos of soup/etc in fall is nice

rain poncho or rain jacket and pants

2 fleeces or WOOL sweaters or shirts…always dress in layers …DON’T bring one warm coat. NO SWEATSHIRTS…BRING NOTHING COTTON

loose fitting windbreaker (the bigger the better to fit layers underneath)

long john uppers/lowers (BY THE WAY---NO COTTON)..invest in polypro type long jons-if you don’t have them-get them inexpensively @ campmor)-fall winter wear them..rest of year-pack them in case you need to spend the night

PANTS- NO COTTON (blue jeans are called suicide pants in the mountains)…running pants are good, fleece pants are ok, polyester pants ok (scout pants ok in a pinch) too. Cotton gives no warmth and NEVER DRIES out

FOOT GEAR-ankle high boots are best. They are essential in rocky/rough terrain to avoid torn ankles. In more gentle terrain ( north jersey and harriman) you can get away with sneakers…but boots are still best. ON MOUNTAIN HIKES TO THE CATSKILLS BOOTS ARE REQUIRED

BASEBALL HAT AND WARM HAT AND GLOVES

A LOT OF FOOD….snacks/lunch…you usually eat double in the mountains

COMPASS-ETC…EVERY SCOUT SHOULD OBTAIN AND KEEP A COMPASS/WHISTLE/SPACE BLANKET/FLASHLIGHT& XTRA BATTERIES IN THEIR PACK

FINALLY…PUT A LARGE GARBAGE BAG IN YOUR PACK AND THEN PUT EVERYTHING LISTED IN THE BAG IN THE PACK

Sleeping Bag (rated to 20 degrees)…If buying one…only buy mummy type bags

Closed cell foam pad—ESSENTIAL for warmth & comfort

Tent and plastic ground cloth….If bring your own…make sure it is SEAMSEALED…if not…troop will supply it

PACK LIGHT…