SPL McCrackens Advice on Packing for Hikes and Camping

The following is advice by SPL Jonathan McCracken on what to pack as presented on 4/25/2011. Thanks for CJ Beamon for taking notes, and Christian Na for transcribing.

---

Alice Pack

• Preferred for on the trail and hot weather hiking.

Stoves and Ovens

• Don’t bring a grill that’s too big.
• Use a smaller camping propane stove.
• These do not cost much.
• For larger amounts of food, use a bigger stove. For smaller amounts, use a smaller one.

Matches and Lighters

• Carry matches in a waterproof case.
• Bring a lighter just in case.

Lanterns and Flashlights

• Use propane lights and electric battery flashlights.
• Some flashlights can generate their own power.

Food

• MREs have a sealed meal inside them.
• The food is lightweight, easy to prepare, and sealed to protect it from animals.
• Tabasco sauce can kill bears.

Shovels

• They can be used to build a trench to catch rainwater around your tent to prevent the water from getting inside.
• They can dig cat holes.

Tools

• Shovel
• Camping knife
• Camping axe

Uses for a Camping Axe

• Will cut wood for a campfire.
• Will cut rope.
• Will cut most other bigger jobs.

Mess Kits

• Can include
  • Cooking Pan
  • Plate(s)
  • Ladle
  • Fork
  • Knife
  • Spoon

First Aid Kits

• There are three levels of first aid kits that increase in size, content, and purpose.

Fishing Gear

• Bring a pack that has what you need to fish.
• Fishing gear can be used to lessen the amount of food you have to bring to your campout/hike.

Insect Repellent

Sunscreen

Waterproof Containers

• These are used to keep your most important things dry. (Such as cameras and matches)

Electronics

• Cell phones can be used for their purpose of maps and rescue.
• Cameras can be brought.

Emergency Blanket

• They are basically one-use.
• They are reflective.
• They keep your radiant heat from escaping your body.

Entertainment and Education

• You should always bring these three books.
  • Survival Guide
  • Extra reading novel
  • Boy Scout Handbook
• Pack a deck of cards to enjoy with other scouts.

Clothing

• Waterproof clothes work very well.
• Pack too many socks because you can’t pack too many.
• Pack according to the weather.
• In cold weather, use many layers.