TROOP CAMPING READINESS CHECKLIST

Is my daughter ready for camping? There is a progression in outdoor living skills that lead to troop camping. Girls should be ready physically and emotionlly, and have a certain competency level in basic outdoor living skills. (The council recognizes that not all girls and adults will have the same physical abilities when participating)

• She is not afraid to be away from home and family overnight and wants to go.

• She gets along well with all girls in the troop and can work as part of a group.

• She can cope with the "unknown" -- strange places, latrines, darkness, "critters," etc.

• She is in good health and takes responsibility for her personal health and safety.

• She is strong enough to carry personal gear, bucket of water, armload of wood, etc.

• She can help plan a simple trip -- what, when, how.

• She can help make and use a Kaper Chart, taking responsibility for general clean up of campsites, and personal belongings.

• She can help plan camp menus, and share in the food preparation duties.

• She can help wash dishes, clean up kitchen or cooking areas.

• She can tie and use basic knots needed to set up camp.

• She has been instructed and practiced use of tools required (i.e.: kitchen tools, broom, etc.) as needed.

• She knows camp health and safety rules, use of the buddy system.

• She practices good manners in the out-of-doors -- understands the importance of minimal impact camping on the environment.

• She knows how to dress and pack for outdoor activities/weather.

• She has participated in a series of progressive outdoor experiences including cookouts and day trips, and/or has been to day or resident camp.

SAMPLE PACKING LIST

Choose items needed in accordance with requirements of trip, season and activities.

Personal Equipment

• Underwear
• long pants
• shorts
• T-Shirts
• long sleeved shirts
• sweaters and sweatshirts
• long underwear
• socks
• bandanas
• sleepwear
• sturdy shoes/hiking boots
• sneakers
• riding boots/helmet
• bathing suit
• hat
• gloves
• jacket
• water-repellent jacket pants and hat
• rain poncho
• sit upon

Personal Hygiene Items

• soap/shampoo
• towel/washcloth
• toothbrush/toothpaste
• comb/brush
• deoderant
• sunscreen
• lip balm
• insect repellent (non aresol)
• shower shoes

Sleeping and Eating Gear

• sleeping bag/bedroll/pillow
• pack all items in a backpack or soft sided bag
• mess kit - unbreakable plate, cup, bowl, eating utensils
• nylon mesh bag for dishes/dunk bag
• water bottle with strap
• flashlight with extra batteries and bulb