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Packing for a first campout can feel big. Use this guide as a simple checklist. Think of your campsite as a small “home away from home”—sleep, clothes, hygiene, eating, and a few extras for comfort and safety. As you gain experience, you’ll fine-tune what your family brings.
Packing for a first campout can feel big. Use this guide as a simple checklist. Think of your campsite as a small “home away from home”—sleep, clothes, hygiene, eating, and a few extras for comfort and safety. As you gain experience, you’ll fine-tune what your family brings.
Tip: If you’re missing an item, ask your den—families often have spare gear to loan or suggestions for low-cost alternatives.
Camping: What to Wear
Camping: What to Wear
Arrival & Departure: Field Uniform (sometimes called “Class A”) for check-in/out, opening/closing flags, photos, and ceremonies.
Program Blocks: Switch to Activity Uniform (sometimes called “Class B”) for messy or high-activity periods.
Religious Observance: Wear the Field Uniform (sometimes called “Class A”).
Footwear & Layers: Closed-toe shoes; pack weather-appropriate layers and sun/rain protection.
Layering tips
Warm weather:
Lightweight, breathable shirts and socks that dry fast; a brimmed hat and sunscreen.
Bring a light long-sleeve for sun/bug protection; stay hydrated (reusable bottle).
Cool/cold weather:
Three layers: wicking base (synthetic/wool), insulating mid (fleece/wool), weather shell.
No cotton layers; warm hat/gloves; dry socks to sleep in; use an insulated pad under your bag.
Pro tip: Pack a hanger for the field shirt and a small zip bag for the neckerchief/slide so nothing gets lost.
Typical Camping Schedule
Typical Camping Schedule
Friday (Arrival)
5:30–7:00p — Arrive, check in, unload, set up tents
7:15p — Opening / welcome & safety brief
Evening — Simple snack & low-key activity / game
~10:00p — Lights out / quiet hours
Saturday (Program Day)
7:30–8:30a — Breakfast
Morning — Program blocks (nature / skills / hike / crafts)
12:00p — Lunch
Afternoon — More activities & den time; quiet/reading option
5:30–6:30p — Dinner
Evening — Campfire with songs/skits • s’mores & cocoa • star gazing
~10:00p — Lights out / quiet hours
Sunday (Pack-up)
7:30–8:30a — Breakfast
Morning — Free time / simple activity
~10:00a — Break down camp, clean up, closing flags & departure
Cub Scout “Six Essentials” (always pack)
Cub Scout “Six Essentials” (always pack)
Small first-aid kit
Water bottle (reusable). Pack 2 practices Leave No Trace — please bring a refillable bottle.
Whistle (emergency use only)
Trail food (simple snacks)
Sun protection (hat and/or sunscreen)
Flashlight/headlamp with fresh batteries
Official: Cub Scout Six Essentials
Leaders may add event-specific items in sign-up emails.
Home (Shelter & Camp)
Home (Shelter & Camp)
Tent (e.g., 4-person for 2 people, 6-person for 3)
Ground cloth/tarp under tent (protects floor, keeps moisture out)
Tent stake hammer or rubber mallet
Camp chairs (one per person)
Trash bags (wet/dirty gear on the way home)
Closet (Clothing)
Closet (Clothing)
Field Uniform (sometimes called “Class A”) for arrival/departure and ceremonies
Activity Uniform (sometimes called “Class B”) (Pack or Scouting T-shirt) for program time
Pants/shorts, underwear, and extra socks
Closed-toe shoes (sneakers/boots)
Rain gear (poncho or rain jacket/pants)
Warm layer (hat/jacket) as needed by season
Bedroom (Sleep System)
Bedroom (Sleep System)
Sleeping bag (or 2–3 blankets/sheets if needed)
Pillow (or stuff a pillowcase with spare clothes)
Sleeping pad (closed-cell foam or insulated pad; air mattresses can feel cold in cool weather)
Flashlight/headlamp (also listed in Six Essentials)
Choosing a sleeping bag (quick tips)
• Most Pack campouts (spring/fall): pick a bag rated about 10–15°F lower than the expected overnight low. Synthetic fill is easy-care and warm when damp; a simple rectangular or “semi-rectangular” bag is comfy for kids.
• Colder weather/cabins: consider a 20–30°F bag or add a liner/blanket. Always use an insulated pad, dry socks, and a warm hat for sleeping. Avoid cotton sleepwear.
Kitchen (Food & Water)
Kitchen (Food & Water)
Refillable water bottle (Pack practices “Leave No Trace”)
Mess kit (plate/bowl/utensils); bring a heat-safe mug if you want hot drinks
Simple trail snacks (Pack usually provides meals per event details)
Extras (Nice to Have)
Extras (Nice to Have)
Sunscreen & insect repellent
Sunglasses and/or brimmed hat
Small games/cards for downtime
Camera (optional)
Scout’s rank handbook
Earplugs (snorers happen!)
Bathroom (Hygiene)
Bathroom (Hygiene)
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Biodegradable soap/shampoo; small towel
Toilet paper or biodegradable wipes (pack out if needed)
Personal medications (parents coordinate storage per leader guidance)
Age-Appropriate Tools & Pocketknives
Age-Appropriate Tools & Pocketknives
Pocketknife: Introduced through the Bear “Whittling” elective adventure. Use only when a leader says it’s time, in a supervised area, and with safety rules in place.
Who may use: Typically Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light, at leader discretion. Unsafe use ends the activity for the day.
Carry/storage: Knives stay put away unless at the supervised station.
What NOT to Bring
What NOT to Bring
Alcohol, illegal drugs, or vaping/tobacco products (Scouting events are substance-free.)
Fireworks, firearms, or weapons (not allowed at Cub Scout events).
Jewelry/valuables (easy to lose in camp)
Personal electronics for youth use (leave locked/off in vehicle after arrival)
Recommended Starter Gear & Where to Buy
Recommended Starter Gear & Where to Buy
From our Camping Director: Specific, budget-friendly gear suggestions. In the fall, the best selection is at Walmart, Target (sports aisle), REI Outlet (online; check delivery times), Amazon, REI (King of Prussia), and the PARC Scout Shop in Exton. These basics should last several years, often through the transition to BSA in 6th grade.
Tents
Sleeping Bags
For most Pack campouts: 30–35°F for fall/winter, ~50°F for spring; many families just use a 20°F bag year-round and adjust layers. Youth cold-weather bags can be pricey; adult bags or extra blankets work fine.
Adult
Kids
Mess kits & camp kitchen
Links come from Camping Director's picks; we omit prices so the page doesn’t go stale.
Leaders will send a short “what to bring” note for each campout (tents vs. cabins, meals, gear, and any special items).
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