Camp Kit Guide — What to Pack (and What Not to Worry About)

Packing for camp is part of the adventure — but it doesn’t need to be stressful or expensive. At 25th Allerton, we want every child to join in without families feeling pressure to buy the latest gear. Leaders will always provide a kit list before each camp and no special items should be bought unless leaders say they are essential. You don’t need the newest rucksack or sleeping bag to enjoy the fun!

Here’s a general guide to help you get a feel for what’s usually needed.

Shared Essentials (All Sections)

Across Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Explorers, most kit lists include:

• Main bag & day pack — A large rucksack (65–80 L for Scouts; smaller holdall for younger sections) plus a day sack (15–30 L).

• Uniform — Worn to and from camp.

• Sleeping gear — 2–3 season sleeping bag, roll mat, and optional blanket or pillow for extra comfort.

• Wash & eating kit — Mess kit (plate, bowl, cup, cutlery, tea towel), plus a wash kit (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, flannel/towel).

• Clothing — Changes of T-shirts, trousers (not jeans), underwear, socks, jumper or fleece, pajamas, coat/fleece, and indoor shoes/trainers.

• Outdoor essentials — Waterproof jacket/trousers, hat/cap, gloves (seasonal), water bottle, torch and spare batteries, plastic bags for muddy kit.

• Optional comforts — Book, comic, quiet game, or a teddy for reassurance.

• Medication / first aid — Clearly labelled, handed to leaders, with a small personal first-aid kit if needed.

Section-Specific Highlights

Beavers & Cubs (ages ~6–10)

• Use a holdall or medium rucksack suited to smaller shoulders.

• Keep packing simple — leaders encourage independence.

• Swim kit may be needed.

• Comfort items like a teddy are welcome.

Scouts (ages ~10–14)

• Larger rucksacks (65–80 L) and a day sack are standard.

• Personal first-aid kit and small spending money may be requested.

• Penknives (for skills camps only) must be labelled and handed to leaders.

• Activity-specific gear (football boots, shin pads, walking poles) may be needed depending on the programme.

Explorers and Young Leaders (ages ~14+)

• Expedition gear is more advanced — 3–4 season sleeping bags, liners, durable waterproofs, dry bags, compass, and mess tins for cooking.

• Greater autonomy and specialised equipment for activities such as hiking or overseas trips.

Final Tips for First-Time Campers

• ✅ Use a checklist — printable versions are available from Scouts UK.

• ✅ Encourage your child to pack their own bag — it builds independence and helps them know where things are.

• ✅ Label everything — socks, bottles, even bags — to avoid mix-ups.

• ✅ Leave valuables at home — phones, tablets and electronics are discouraged.

• ✅ Think seasonally — sun cream in summer, thermals in winter.

The Takeaway

Camp is about shared adventure, not expensive kit. Leaders will always share a kit list before camp, tailored to the activities planned. Unless we specifically say an item is essential, there’s no need to buy it. What matters most is that young people arrive ready to learn, explore, and make memories together.

👉 Find printable kit checklists at Scouts UK