Packing: Freeze-Out

This is seriously cold weather, folks. Pack a bit extra of everything so you can change out of wet stuff into dry at least once daily. An extra pair of dry socks, dry shoes, and dry gloves will go a long way—as will a warm knit hat exclusively for sleeping (in addition to one to wear during the day). Also don’t forget snow or rain pants. You will be kneeling and sitting in the snow a lot. Finally: Don’t forget sunscreen. Kids often get more burned in winter ’cause they don’t bother, yet conditions are worse what with that sunlight reflecting off all the snow.

The Ten Essentials

Combustion (at least two: lighters, waterproof matches, flint-and-steel; also: tinder—twine or dryer lint)  Hydration (1-2 quart/liter-sized water bottles or Camelback)  Nutrition (2-3 granola bars, Powerbars, Snickers, GORP, whatever)  Navigation (compass, copy of map)  Insulation (extra clothing, fleece, warm hat, and rain jacket under “clothing” all count)  Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)

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)  Tool and repair kit (pocket knife or Leatherman/multitool; >needle and thread<; dental floss; duct tape wrapped around hiking pole or pencil)  Emergency shelter (space blanket or poncho).  Sun protection sunscreen, sunglasses, UPF lip balm, hat with an all-around brim<, long pants and long sleeves)

Other personal gear

Pack  Pack cover or contractor bag  Winter sleeping bag (in waterproof stuff sack or trash bag)  Sleeping pad (NOT an air mattress; foam pads are warmest; Thermarest-type self-inflating pads also acceptable)  Sleeping bag liner (highly recommended; can lower the the temp rating of your bag by 7–9º)  Trash bag (large)  Ziplock bags (3)  50 feet of thin rope

Cup  Bowl/plate  Spoon or spork  Bandana (this can be cotton)  Personal toilet paper (in baggie)  Tooth brush & toothpaste  Gold Bond (for feet, and if you choose not to wear underwear)  Camp soap (biodegradable liquid)  Pencil and paper  Whistle and mirror/CD (for signaling)

Clothing

It’s winter, so layering is key to keeping warm—hence the extra pairs on this particular list compared to most. (Also, you trend to get far sweatier than you’d think, so you need full sets to change into for the night.) Remember: COTTON KILLS! All clothing should be polyester or wool (that includes socks and underwear). >> No jeans.  >> No cotton Tees.  >> No cotton socks.

Long Pants (2–3 pair)  Short sleeve shirt (3)  Long sleeve shirt (3)  Underwear (3 pair)  Socks (5 pair)  Thermals/Long underwear (2 shirts, 2 pants)  Winter fleece or wool sweater  Warm sleeping hat (like a tuke or close-fitting knit beanie; one that covers your ears is perfect)

Warm winter hat (for day use)  Glove liners (1-2 pair)  Mittens or gloves (preferably 2 pair; they awlays get wet)  Scarf or face mask (recommended)  Winter coat  Rain jacket (waterproof)  Hiking boots (waterproofed)  Rain or snow pants (waterproof)

Optional

Gaiters  Hiking poles  Day pack (tiny)  Small camp towel (optional)  Skis or snowshoes (troop will rent/provide, but you can bring personal)  Ice axe and crampons (you will know if needed; troop has extras)  Book

Camera (or use your cellphone—but see the next item)  Cellphone (but you CANNOT use it to call, text, play games, or use Internet; it is for emergencies only—or as a camera)  Cabin shoes (flip-flops are great: lightweight)  Deodorant (not advised—especially in bear country)