Packing: Winter

What to pack for winter backpacking, snowshoeing, and cross-country ski trips

The Ten Essentials

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)

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/ poncho).
Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, UPF lip balm, hat with an all-around brim, long pants and long sleeves)

Other personal gear

Backpack
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

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)

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 pair)
Short sleeve shirt (2)
Long sleeve shirt (2)
Underwear (2-3 pair; optional)
Socks (4-5 pair)
Long underwear (2 shirts, 2 pants)
Winter fleece or wool sweater
Rain or snow pants (waterproof)

Warm winter cap
Glove liners (1-2 pair)
Over mittens or gloves
Scarf or face mask (optional)
Brimmed hat (for sun protection)
Rain jacket (waterproof)
Hiking boots (waterproofed)

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

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)
Camp shoes (flip-flops are great: lightweight, and they won’t rub blistered heels)
Deodorant (not advised—especially in bear country)