Packing list: Freeze-Out
» Also see: Troop gear.
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.
- Combustion (carry 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)
- Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)
- Insulation (extra clothing, fleece, warm hat, and rain jacket under "clothing" all count)
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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 the warmest; Thermarest-type self-inflating pads are also acceptable)
- Sleeping bag liner (highly recommended; can lower the the temp rating of your bag by an extra 9º)
- Trash bag (large)
- Ziplock bags (3)
- 50 feet of thin rope
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- Cup
- Bowl/plate
- Spoon or spork
- Bandana (this can be cotton)
- Personal toilet paper (in zip lock bag)
- Tooth brush & toothpaste
- Gold Bond (for feet and, well, useful if you choose not to wear underwear)
- Camp soap (biodegradable liquid)
- Insect repellent
- Pencil and paper
- Whistle and mirror/CD (for signaling)
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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.
- 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
- Rain or snow pants (waterproof)
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- Warm winter hat
- Warm sleeping hat (like a tuke or close-fitting knit beanie; one that covers your ears is perfect)
- Glove liners (1-2 pair)
- Over mittens or gloves (preferably 2 pair)
- Scarf or face mask (recommended)
- Brimmed hat (for sun protection)
- Winter coat
- Rain jacket (waterproof)
- Hiking boots (waterproofed)
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Optional
- Gaiters
- Hiking poles
- Day pack (tiny)
- Small camp towel (optional)
- Skis or snowshoes (troop will rent, but you can bring personal)
- Ice axe and crampons (we will tell you if they are needed; troop has extras)
- Book
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- 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)
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The troop will supply...
- Tents
- Cook stoves
- Water filters (though carrying purifying tablets is wise)
- First aid kits (though carry a small personal kit plus any personal meds)
- Specialty gear
- Most food (a snack or two of your own is always a good idea).
Related pages
Note: The first aid and survival tips provided on this site are informational only. Please seek advice from a medical professional or trained wilderness first aid expert for current best practices and techniques.
