The Scout Basic Essentials

Prepared. For Life. It’s more than a motto for Scouting; it’s a way to plan and execute each outing, even if it’s just a Saturday morning hike. In the woods, the items listed below (stowed in a daypack) can keep you comfortable, warm, hydrated, safe and, most of all, prepared to face what nature puts in your path -- whether you asked for it or not. This list is based upon The Scout Basic Essentials on page 238 of the Scouts BSA Handbook, 14th Edition.

Pocketknife.

A pocketknife or multitool could be the most useful tool you can own. Keep yours clean, sharp, and secure, and don’t pick one so heavy that it pulls your pants down. In order to carry a pocketknife as an Arrow of Light Scout, you must first earn the Knife Safety Adventure, even if you earned the Whittling Adventure as a Bear Cub Scout and/or the Chef’s Knife Adventure as a Webelos. 

Rain Gear.

A poncho or a rain parka can protect you from light showers and heavy storms. It can also block the wind and help keep you warm. 

Trail Food. 

A small bag of granola, some raisins and nuts, or a couple of energy bars can give you a boost when you get hungry on the trail. High energy foods are especially important if you are out longer than you had expected. 

Flashlight

An LED flashlight will cast a strong beam with just one or two AA batteries. LED headlamps are a good option, too, because they leave your hands free. Carry spare batteries in case you need them. 

Extra Clothing.

 Layers of clothing allow you to adjust what you wear to match the weather. During an afternoon hike, a jacket might provide all the extra warmth you need. On camping trips, bring along additional clothing to deal with changes in temperature. 

First-Aid Kit. 

Your patrol leader or a Scouts BSA troop leader will bring a group first-aid kit on most  Scout trips, but you should also carry a few personal supplies to treat blisters, small cuts, and other minor injuries. 

Sun Protection. 

Guard your skin by applying a good sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) and wear a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lip balm that contains sunscreen ingredients. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you hit the trail and every two hours after that — more often if you sweat a lot. 

Map and Compass. 

A map and a compass can show you the way in unfamiliar areas. Learn the basics, and then practice using a compass and a map when you’re in the field. 

Matches and Fire Starters. 

With strike-anywhere matches, a butane lighter, or a ferro rod and striker, you can light a stove or kindle a fire in any weather. Protect matches and other fire starters from moisture by storing them in a self-sealing plastic bag or canister. Before you can use matches or fire starters you must first earn the Firem’n Chit. You may want to ask for help from your local Scouts BSA Troop. If you earn this certification as an Arrow of Light Scout, you will be required to earn it again in Scouts BSA before you are permitted to use matches or fire starters in Scouts BSA. 

Water Bottle. 

Always take along at least a 1-letter refillable bottle filled with water. On long hikes, on hot days, in arid regions, and at high elevations, carry two bottles or more.