Summer Camping Checklist

The Outdoor (Ten+) Basic Essentials:

Any time a Trailman goes on a camping trip or hike, he should always be prepared by carrying the following basic essential items in his pack. These essentials will allow a Trailman to survive in the outdoors in most emergency situations.

• Pocketknife

• First aid kit

• Extra clothing

• Water bottle (1 liter)

• Trail food (granola bars, dried fruit, beef jerky, etc.)

• Matches/Firestarter

• Hat (wide-brimmed or Trail Life branded)

• Sun protection (i.e. sunscreen – at least 30spf)

• Rain gear (PLUS a small tarp or “military” poncho)

• Flashlight or headlamp (with an extra set of batteries)

• Map and compass 

• Trailman’s Standard or hiking staff

• Emergency contact information (in a waterproof Ziploc bag or laminated card)

- Although not part of the “Basic” essentials, these items are very handy to have and should be included.

• *100 foot 550 paracord

• *Water treatment (Iodine, water filter, chlorine tabs)

• *Whistle/Signal mirror

Recommendation beyond the “Basics”:

• Toilet paper (small/partial roll)

• Insect repellant

• Trowel (for digging cathole latrines)

• Small Towel or Washcloth

• Work Gloves

• Pen/Pencil & small notebook

Additional Summer Camping Items

• Bible

• Tent

• Sleeping bag - light/minimal insulation

• Sleeping pad

• Pillow

• Additional overnight toiletries

• Clothing (one set per day)

• Hiking boots

• Extra shoes (no open-toe)

• Extra socks

• Mess kit (plate/bowl) with utensils

• Cup

• Camping chair

• Battery-powered fan for sleeping

• Swimsuit

• Closed-toed water shoes

• Beach towel

• Lifejacket

• Prescribed medications