Cold Weather Camping Pack List — Troop 16
Pack in waterproof bags, avoid cotton, and dress in layers. Drink 2–3 liters of water per day.
Clothing
- Felt‑lined waterproof boots
- Camp shoes or booties Optional
- 1–2 changes of underwear
- 2 pairs long underwear Polypropylene best
- 2 pairs outer socks Wool best
- 2 pairs liner socks
- 2 pairs long pants Wool or synthetic best
- Nylon snow or wind pants
- 2 long‑sleeve shirts Wool or flannel
- Sweater or mid‑layer
- Warm jacket
- Scarf, turtleneck, or dickie
- Stocking cap or balaclava for day
- Extra stocking cap or head covering for night
- Heavy mittens Wool is good
- Backup gloves
Overnight gear
- Sleeping bag rated for expected lows
- Extra bag, liner, or blanket Optional
- Ground pad ESSENTIAL
- Small flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries
Toiletries
- Towel and washcloth
- Camp soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Comb or brush
- Toilet paper
- Trowel snow shelters, catholes
- Lip balm
- Personal first‑aid kit
Other essentials
- Matches or lighter
- Notepad and pen or pencil
- Watch
Miscellaneous
- Compass
- Pocket knife
- Sunglasses Optional
- Waterproof pack cover or garbage bag
- 2 plastic garbage bags
- Boy Scout Handbook
Special considerations
- Cotton is bad, wool is good. Cotton holds moisture; avoid jeans and cotton sweatpants. Dry sweatpants are fine for inside the sleeping bag.
- Layering is key. One‑piece suits are only for low activity. Use removable layers through the day.
- Change into clean, dry base layers and socks before bed. Sleep in a dry hat. Do NOT breathe into your sleeping bag.
- Most heat is lost through the head. Bring a second dry stocking cap for night or use a hood. A balaclava helps in very cold conditions.
- Prevent dehydration to reduce hypothermia risk. Drink 2–3 liters daily. Store bottles upside‑down in the snow so lids don’t freeze.
- Move to warm up. Physical activity generates heat.
- Adult leaders will check on Scouts throughout the weekend.