Packing list: Backpacking (winter)
» Also see: Troop gear.
- Combustion (carry at least two: lighters, waterproof matches, flint-and-steel; also: tinder—twine or dryer lint)
- Hydration (1-2 quart/liter-sized water bottles or Camelback)
- Nutrition (2-3 granola bars, Powerbars, Snickers, GORP, whatever)
- Navigation
 (compass, copy of map)
- Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)
- Insulation (extra clothing, fleece, warm hat, and rain jacket under "clothing" all count)
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Other personal gear
- Backpack
- Pack cover or contractor bag
- Winter sleeping bag (in waterproof stuff sack or trash bag)
- Sleeping pad (NOT an air mattress; foam pads are the warmest; Thermarest-type self-inflating pads are also acceptable)
- Sleeping bag liner (highly recommended; can lower the the temp rating of your bag by an extra 9º)
- Trash bag (large)
- Ziplock bags (3)
- 50 feet of thin rope
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- Cup
- Bowl/plate
- Spoon or spork
- Bandana (this can be cotton)
- Personal toilet paper (in zip lock bag)
- Tooth brush & toothpaste
- Gold Bond (for feet and, well, useful if you choose not to wear underwear)
- Camp soap (biodegradable liquid)
- Insect repellent
- Pencil and paper
- Whistle and mirror/CD (for signaling)
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Clothing
Remember: COTTON KILLS! All clothing should be polyester or wool (that includes socks and underwear). No jeans. No cotton T-shirts. No cotton socks or undies.
- Long Pants (2 pair)
- Short sleeve shirt (2)
- Long sleeve shirt (2)
- Underwear (2-3 pair; optional)
- Socks (4-5 pair)
- Long underwear (2 shirts, 2 pants)
- Winter fleece or wool sweater
- Rain or snow pants (waterproof)
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- Warm winter cap
- Glove liners (1-2 pair)
- Over mittens or gloves
- Scarf or face mask (optional)
- Brimmed hat (for sun protection)
- Rain jacket (waterproof)
- Hiking boots (waterproofed)
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Optional
- Gaiters
- Hiking poles
- Day pack (tiny)
- Small camp towel (optional)
- Skis or snowshoes (troop will rent, but you can bring personal)
- Ice axe and crampons (we will tell you if they are needed; troop has extras)
- Book
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- Camera (or use your cellphone—but see the next item)
- Cellphone (but you CANNOT use it to call, text, play games, or use Internet; it is for emergencies only—or as a camera)
- Camp shoes (flip-flops are great: lightweight, and they won't rub blistered heels)
- Deodorant (not advised—especially in bear country)
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The troop will supply...
- Tents
- Cook stoves
- Water filters (though carrying purifying tablets is wise)
- First aid kits (though carry a small personal kit plus any personal meds)
- Specialty gear
- Most food (a snack or two of your own is always a good idea).
Related pages
Note: The first aid and survival tips provided on this site are informational only. Please seek advice from a medical professional or trained wilderness first aid expert for current best practices and techniques.
