Scout Camp Kit List – Camp Like a Pro
Camp Like a Pro: A Complete Scout Camp Kit List for anyone going camping who doesn’t want to get caught short or encounter any situation they can’t handle. Do it like the pros. Do it like a Scout!







Tip: Research your Scout Camp Kit List:
The Location: The location of the camp dictates the climate and terrain. If it is at a high altitude, it will be very cold at night. If it is in a humid canyon or tropical sea level, it will be hot and sticky.
Terrain: If you’re planning on hiking through difficult terrain or in cold weather, you’ll want to pick something that can handle that type of wear and tear. Conversely if the terrain is very flat, you’ll want to pick something out that’s more comfortable, like a pair of trainers. Worth researching beforehand to keep belongings to a minimum and save weight.
The Duration: An overnight, weekend or week-long scout camp all require different amounts of gear, in terms of changes of clothes, food, and supplies. Depending on the length of the camp, the type of camp (e.g. swimming or hiking), and the weather, you may need more or less of certain things.If you are unsure what to expect, you can always prepare more than you will probably need. Camping can be a great experience, but it can also be very expensive. There are a lot of things you can do to make your camp experience as affordable as possible.
The Weather: Is it hot or cold? Dry or wet? This will determine the amount and type of clothing you’ll need to pack, plus other considerations like sleeping bag thickness and sleeping matt.
If you’re traveling to a destination that’s at a similar temperature, you may not need to pack much more than a light jacket. However, if you’re heading to a destination that’s significantly colder, you’ll want to pack more warm clothing. If it’s a hot destination, you’ll probably want to pack less and wear less clothing to let your skin breathe.
On the flip side, if it’s a cold destination, you’ll want to pack more and wear more to keep warm. The climate should be a consideration when you decide where you’d like to travel. If you’re planning on visiting a destination that’s significantly colder than where you’re located, you’ll want to pack accordingly.
Packing the Must-Haves
You’ve come to the right place if you want to be prepared and build the best scout camp kit list. Using the information found in this article, you will be able to choose the right gear to bring with you for a pleasant, dry outing.
At Least 2L of Water Per Day for Camping: You should bring at least 2L of water for each day to drink when camping without a water source nearby. A collapsible water bottle would be a good idea as it will fold flat for easier storage when used.
A Decent, Waterproof Light Source: I think headlamps are better than flashlights for camping in the woods. Pack one light source, especially if camping. Bring a flashlight and a headlamp just in case your friend forgot theirs.
A sharp pocket knife or multi-tool: Having a pocket knife is imperative for scouting, but having a multi-tool knife is more advantageous since it can double as a tool. Check the sharpness of your blade before leaving and use a pocket knife blade sharpener if necessary, to ensure safe, clean cuts while you’re on your trip
A Comfortable Sleeping Bag and Lightweight, Collapsible Ground Pad: Sleep quality is the key to a successful camping trip. In my opinion, a quality sleeping bag and lightweight, collapsible ground pad (instead of a foam mat) would be the most beneficial additions to your camping equipment.
When you’re backpacking or camping, you want to be as lightweight as possible. Mess kits are basically taking up that space, so you have to find a better alternative. One of the best alternatives out there is a lightweight set of cookware. You can get a lightweight set for under £50, and it will last you for years to come.
When packing, think about how heavy and bulky your gear is. You’ll want heavy items to be near your back or hips when you’re carrying them, and your backpack to be balanced. If you’re going to camp, don’t overpack!
Always bring a rain jacket or poncho on outdoor adventures to prevent getting soaked and staying wet. Quality rain jackets are more eco-friendly and less likely to tear than ponchos.
Scout camp kit list essentials: What to wear?
Clothing (dry-fit or fast drying is ideal): As a general rule of thumb for camps lasting fewer than 8 days, pack:
- 1-2 pair of shorts and 1-2 long-sleeved T-shirt
- 1 pair of sturdy workpants (for activities such as hiking or swimming)
- 5 t-shirts
- 5 pairs of underwear
- 5 pairs of socks. 7 is better (you never know!)
- Jumper, cardigan and hoody
- 5 pair of comfy trousers/jeans
- 1 pair of boots, 1 pair of trainers, 1 pair of wellies (when in Wales!)
Stay hydrated, wear protective clothing and apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to exposed areas of your skin. If you’re going to be in the sun for longer than 1 hour at a time, it’s a good idea to get an umbrella or reroute your plans so the sun doesn’t rise or set on your location.
Reduce your risk of developing a sun allergy by staying hydrated, wearing protective clothing and maintaining a healthy body temperature by drinking plenty of water.
A strong rope (like nylon) is always handy during a camping trip. You can use it to secure your tent, create a clothesline, or finish your hiking requirements. It is lightweight, easy to carry, and will be greatly helpful in the event of an emergency.
Pretty much all you’ll need for a camping trip toiletries-wise are a few basics. These are easily forgotten so perhaps keep a checklist to make sure you pack everything. Keep your toiletries in a separate plastic bag from your clothes, to avoid leaks and spills.
Washing, cleaning and self-care essentials
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Body Wash or Soap
- Shampoo (not necessary but nice)
- Painkillers (e.g. paracetomol) and Allergy tablets – pollen can get pretty severe in the wild. If you get injured and need painkillers, they’re on hand – be prepared!)
- A Large Towel, a small towel and a face cloth for washing, drying and staying covered if necessary
- Feminine Products (if applicable)
Never leave these off a scout camp kit list:
Always carry flint and steel, a lighter, or matches when camping to be the one who is prepared with a fire starter. Whenever your party needs to light a fire, be the one who is prepared with a fire starter.
Bringing a whistle along is always a good idea! Whistles don’t take up much space, but they can help in case of an emergency. You can use them to signal help, let people know where you are, or just use them for fun. Whistles come in many different shapes and sizes, so you can find one that suits your needs.
Take a map and a compass with you: Especially useful if there’s no phone or WiFi signal around. You probably won’t need them but if you do they’re there and they take up next to no space at all. Be prepared!
If you’re camping in a tent, you’ll want to make sure you have a soft pillow to rest your head on. A camping pillow can really help you relax and get a better night’s sleep. Camp pillows come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find one that’s right for you. Some of the pillows on the market are even portable and compact, so you can bring them with you on your next camping trip.
Rubbish Bags: Pack 3 black bin bags for camping to waterproof belongings, store dirty clothes, and if necessary, collect camp site rubbish for easier disposal. They’re a very useful item that can easily be overlooked and are so easy to carry as they take up very little space.
A tarpaulin: Tarpaulins are useful for lining tents, making shelters, and more. They are inexpensive, lightweight, and prepare you for the worst. If a storm hits it can help keep you dry. Tarpaulins come in many different sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs. Some can be used for a few hours, while others can be used for months.
Toilet paper is always a good idea to have on hand, as it can be used for both cleaning and comfort. It is also essential for camping situations when toilets may not work properly.
Brain food and fun times
When camping, it can be hard to stay entertained if you’re stuck inside your tent all day. These days, most campsites have outlets that can charge your phone and laptops, so playing games on those can keep you occupied as well. If you want to go outside your tent for a bit, a pack of cards can be a great option for a fun activity. They’re small, inexpensive, and easy enough for anyone to do. Bring a pack of cards along for a night under the stars next time you head camping.
I would suggest keeping some granola bars, crackers, or other non-perishable snacks packed in your first aid kit. These items can be eaten as is, or used as a base for a quick snack. These snacks will keep you and your patrol energised, and may help you avoid a morale drop if one happens. Be sure to keep some healthy options on hand, such as granola bars or fruit.
Sports and activities
You’ll want to bring along items specific to many of the activities you plan to engage in, including swimming, mountain biking, and playing football.
The most important thing to remember when packing for sports is to be prepared. The last thing you want to do is show up to the field or court unprepared. Things like rain gear, water bottles, practice jerseys, and more are important to have on hand.
Selecting the right activities will also make the trip more enjoyable. For example, if you are planning on going hiking, be sure to bring the proper hiking shoes. This will prevent injury and make your trip much more enjoyable.
Bring a backpack that everything will fit in.
Once you have sorted out everything you’ll need on your scout camp kit list, you’re ready to hit the great outdoors! Make sure you get yourself a backpack that everything will fit in and can attach any items to such as rolled up tents and sleeping bags. Molle systems make an ideal setup for attaching additional items to your backpack’s exterior, so take into account everything that will go inside the kit bag to size it correctly, then make sure you can attach anything to it and get all your kit along with you for the time of your life.