Items You Need to Bring
- Positive attitude
- Sweatbands or similar (2)
- Sneakers (2, one pair should be able to get wet)
- Athletic socks (5 pairs)
- One-piece bathing suit/swim trunks
- Flashlight & batteries (plus a spare pair)
- Sense of humor
- Hiking boots (or comfortable, firm-support shoes)
- Insect repellent
- Large towel (1) & Hand towel (1)
- Laundry bag
- Courage
- Lip balm (chapstick)
- Long pants (lightweight, 2-3 – avoid denim, gets heavy when wet)
- Long sleeve shirts (2)
- Willingness to try new things
- Shorts (4 for long programs, 2-3 for shorter programs)
- Sun visor or cap
- Sunscreen
- Toothpaste, soap, etc.
- Tolerance for other people
- T-shirts (5 for long programs, 3-4 for shorter programs)
- Underwear (7 for long programs)
- Unscented deodorant
- Nylon/wool/polypropylene socks (1-2/summer; 3-5/winter)
- Nylon/wool/fleece sweater (1-2/summer; 2-3/winter)
- Winter programs only: Long underwear tops and bottoms (2)
- Your own unique smile
More Items You Need (but we can provide them)
- Backpack (frame pack)
- Rain gear
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad (Ensolite, Thermarest)
- Water bottle
Optional Items
- Pleasure reading – novels, poetry, etc. (appropriate and respectful)
- Musical instruments (small – easy to carry – flute, harmonica, etc.)
- Binoculars (compact)
- Inexpensive watch
- Camera (disposables are best)
- Journal
- Stationery and stamps
- Cards, games, etc.
- Book-bag/knapsack/day pack
- Unbreakable camping mirror
- Comb/brush
- Sunglasses
Items that must be left at home
- Bad attitudes
- Aerosol sprays
- Cell phone
- Hair dryers, TV’s, appliances, etc.
- Jewelry, fancy watches, large earrings, etc.
- Make-up
- Personal food, including candy and gum
- iPods, radios, boom boxes, walkmans, etc.
- Weapons of any type
Remember, less is best – the more you bring the more you will have to carry