Packing: City trips

What to pack for our annual urban scavenger hunts and other city trips

The Ten Eight Essentials

Since we are not camping, and many museums and other buildings have safety regulations (especially in Washington DC), knives and lighters can actually be a hinderance on city trips.

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)

First-Aid kit (the troop brings a kit, but carry a small one of your own, INCLUDING PERSONAL MEDICATIONS—and you MUST advise adult leaders about any meds)
Emergency shelter (space blanket/ poncho).
Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, UPF lip balm, hat with an all-around brim, long pants and long sleeves)

Other personal gear

Backpack or duffel
Day pack (tiny)
Sleeping bag (in a waterproof stuff sack or trash bag)
Sleeping pad (NOT an air mattress; foam pad or Thermarest-type self-inflating)
Sleeping bag liner (optional)
Trash bags (3)
Ziplock bags (6)
50 feet of thin rope
Pencil and paper
Whistle and mirror/CD (for signaling)

Cup
Bowl/plate
Spoon or spork
Bandana (this can be cotton)
Small camp towel
Personal toilet paper (in zip lock bag)
Tooth brush & toothpaste
Gold Bond (for feet and, well, useful if you choose not to wear underwear)
Personal medication
Camp soap (biodegradable liquid)

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.