{"alias":"contentPage","byline":null,"standfirst":null,"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"singleColumn","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003EPacking for a trip doesn\u0027t have to be a puzzle. Whether you\u0027re a seasoned camper or it\u2019s your first trip, these are our packing tips and equipment guidance to make sure you\u0027re ready for any adventure.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFrom rolling your clothes to keeping dry, we\u0027ve got your back. So, grab your bag and discover the secrets to perfect packing.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EChoosing the right kit\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EChoosing the right kit is one of the best ways you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping trip.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETake a look at the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice\u0022\u003EGO Outdoors Expert Advice Centre\u0026nbsp;\u003C/a\u003Efor hints, tips and tricks on lots of different outdoor activities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/supporters/go-outdoors/\u0022 title=\u0022GO Outdoors\u0022\u003EGO Outdoors\u003C/a\u003E also can offer guidance in-store, along with a discount for Scouts members.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETents come in all shapes and sizes, with some being more suitable to different weathers and temperatures.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019re looking for advice, take a look at \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/tent-buying-guide\u0022\u003EGO Outdoors\u2019 Tent Buying Guid\u003C/a\u003Ee. You can also pop into a local store to discuss your camping arrangements, view the tents and get expert guidance for your camping needs.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHere are some common tent set-ups that you might find on some Scout camps:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EModern nylon tents:\u003C/strong\u003E Modern nylon tents are usually small, light, simple tents. These are technical tents, designed to be as lightweight as possible and excellent for camping expeditions and walking. A downside of using lightweight tents is that Scouts may need to be split into small groups to use them. The upside is that they are easier to transport, quicker to put up and cheaper to buy. This means that they can be carried on hikes too, if necessary. Many come with sewn-in groundsheets and they also tend to dry quicker than larger alternatives.\u00A0 The most popular varieties of lightweight tent are \u2018tunnel\u2019, \u2018dome\u2019 and \u2018A-frame\u2019 tents. You can now find some that \u2018pop\u2019 open when removed from the bag and some that are inflatable.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECanvas patrol ridge tent \u003C/strong\u003E: The traditional Patrol tent, which is still commonly used in Scouts, consists of: two or three upright poles, green or white heavy canvas, a flysheet (in many cases), four main storm guy lines and a number of side guy lines. It\u2019s well worth familiarising yourself with the parts of a Patrol tent. Patrol tents are robust and (if pitched properly) relatively weatherproof. They also allow young people to sleep within their groups. However, they\u2019re heavy and can at first appear more complicated to put up than modern designs.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMess tents: \u003C/strong\u003EThe most common mess tents are made up of one piece of canvas and a frame made from metal poles, which slot together to make the support structure.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMarquees:\u003C/strong\u003E These tents are usually made up of two or more roof sections. These can be laced together and have separate walls hanging from hooks on the bottom edges of the roof sections. The main canopy is held up and supported by one or more large upright poles and the walls are supported by a series of smaller poles that are placed around the edge of the canopy. The basic principles for putting up a marquee are the same as for the Patrol tent, just on a larger scale.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Tents"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECamp beds are often a great way of sleeping off the ground, however they can be bulkier and hard to carry, especially if travelling light. Roll mats are low-cost option for those who don\u0027t want to sleep on the ground.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA foam roll mat offers a layer of comfort and insulation between you and the cold floor that will help you get a better night\u0027s sleep. However, you can often feel the damp or cold ground through them, so you may want to have a tent carpet or some interlocking protective foam floor mats underneath them.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESelf-inflating sleeping mats are a great middle for between foam roll mats and bulkier camp beds/air mattresses. These mats just need to be rolled out, open the nozzle to let the air in and they\u0027ll offer a layer of air between your and the tent floor. They often range from low-cost to more technical lightweight mats ideal for your backpacking trips.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA yoga mat is not recommended for camping, offering poor insulation and thickness. You\u2019ll always be better investing in a proper sleeping pad, specially designed for sleeping outdoors.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Camp beds, roll mats and self-inflating sleeping mats"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe right sleeping bag can make all the difference. Take a look at \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/sleeping-bag-guide\u0022\u003EGo Outdoors\u2019 Sleeping Bag Buying Guide\u003C/a\u003E for expert guidance.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDid you know sleeping bags are designed for different seasons and temperatures? They\u2019re ranked by a scale of temperatures and conditions, which are:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1 Season: \u003C/strong\u003EIdeal for warmer summer nights where temperatures above \u002B5 \u00B0C.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2 Season:\u003C/strong\u003E Ideal for cooler nights in the summer or spring, with a temperature range of 0 to \u002B5 \u00B0C. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3 Season:\u003C/strong\u003E Designed for colder nights without frost (0 to -5 \u00B0C).\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMake sure you have anything else you may need, such as air mattresses, roll mats, pillows, pillowcases and spare blankets.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Sleeping bags"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFrom sturdy walking boots to comfy climbing shoes, whatever you\u2019re doing, having the appropriate footwear is key. Take a look at \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.google.com/url?sa=t\u0026amp;rct=j\u0026amp;q=\u0026amp;esrc=s\u0026amp;source=web\u0026amp;cd=\u0026amp;ved=2ahUKEwittK3JlJ-CAxWwXEEAHTPlCpYQFnoECCAQAQ\u0026amp;url=https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/hill-walking-boots\u0026amp;usg=AOvVaw00KQ8GnV-gQJpDwPKxkOiG\u0026amp;opi=89978449\u0022\u003EGO Outdoors\u2019 Walking Boots Buying Guide\u003C/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/choosing-the-right-climbing-shoes\u0022\u003EClimbing Shoes Buying Guide\u003C/a\u003E. They also have advice on \u003Ca href=\u0022https://blog.gooutdoors.co.uk/10-things-to-check-buying-walking-boots/\u0022\u003E10 Things to Check When Buying Walking Boots\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll GO Outdoors stores offer a boot and outdoor adventure shoe fitting service that\u2019s free of charge. Their experts will help you through all these tests there and then to make sure the shoes or boots are right for your chosen activity.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EGO Outdoors stores are equipped with a walking slope to really make sure your new boots are right for you. They also have a discount for Scout members. Don\u2019t forget to think about \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/how-to-choose-walking-socks\u0022\u003Ewalking socks\u003C/a\u003E, too!\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Footwear"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhether you\u2019re holding a sleepover, having an indoor residential event or going camping in the fields, there are ways to help make your trip better for the environment. Here are our top tips to plan an eco-friendly camp that everyone will enjoy:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBorrow items rather than buying new ones.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIf you need to buy kit, opt to go for safe, high-quality second hand items.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAlways clean and store equipment properly to prevent damage between trips.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EOffer broken equipment or kit to the local community for free. Someone may be able to use the spare parts to help mend their own equipment.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBuy a selection of kit for your group or section, so it can be reused by future members.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWrite a kit list to determine exactly what your group needs for your adventure.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EEncourage people to bring biodegradable or sustainable plastic-free items, such as shampoo bars or bamboo toothbrushes.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EHave recycling bins available throughout the event\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ETry to reduce paper and single use plastic, where possible, such as by using reusable plates, bowls and cutlery. You can also avoid paper napkins, plastic straws, water balloons, glow sticks and disposable barbecues.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETake a look at our blog on \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/news/2022/july/how-to-run-a-sustainable-camp-or-sleepover/\u0022 title=\u0022How to run a sustainable camp or sleepover\u0022\u003EHow to run a sustainable camp or sleepover \u003C/a\u003Efor more guidance.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"How to make my kit as eco-friendly as possible "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhether you\u0027re looking for a large backpack for a camping trip o, or you\u0027re looking for a daypack for your essentials, there are some things you need to consider when buying and packing your rucksack.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EGO Outdoors offer a great\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/expert-advice/rucksack-guide\u0022\u003ERucksack Buying and Fitting Guide\u003C/a\u003E.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Rucksacks"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENot everyone will have camping or overnight equipment and that\u2019s OK. The item will be on the kit list for a reason, so the person will very likely need it. Therefore, it\u2019s important to make sure to flag the missing items to the volunteers leading the trip, so they can help you.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESome Scout groups have a selection of kit available for their Group or Section to borrow and use.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERemember, if you don\u2019t have some items, talk to your group before buying anything. They may be able to provide it, offer grant funding or have good advice on where to buy it second-hand.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe person leading the trip could also ask if other parents and carers or Scout Groups can lend or donate spare kit, such as sleeping bags. Depending on what the item is, it might be able to be shared between young people.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERemember, any equipment that is hired or borrowed should be inspected before it is taken. Any defects or faults should be noted and agreements made as to who will rectify it. This is especially important when hiring equipment, as it may affect a deposit being refunded.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou should make sure there\u2019s adequate insurance in place for property and equipment you own, store, hire or loan out to others. Find out more about\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-things-locally/finances-and-insurance/insurance/\u0022 title=\u0022Insurance\u0022\u003EInsurance in Scouts\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"What if someone doesn\u2019t have certain equipment or kit?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThere are some things that it may be best not to take. However, people may need items, such as mobile phones, for medical or other reasons. Older age groups may also want to bring phones, too.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAlways speak to the volunteers leading the trip and follow their guidance. Your group will provide a kit list, so always follow this.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESome items you may not want to bring are:\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EElectrical devices, such as tablets, cameras, mobile phones, hairdryers or tongs\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EGames consoles, such as Nintendo Switch\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFoods that contain common allergens, such as nuts, depending on your Group\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EJewellery\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAny valuables items\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAny precious or sentimental items\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAerosols, such as spray deodorant, as it can trigger asthma or smoke alarms\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMedications, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol. Always remind them that these will be available centrally via the leadership team.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"What not to take on a Nights Away event"}]},{"gridType":"gridImageBlock","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","image":"/media/m50e30kr/a-scout-outside-their-tent-and-smiling.jpg","width":6701,"height":4468,"altText":"A Scout is taking their bag into a patrol tent.","caption":"","link":null},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003ELooking after your kit in Scouts\u003C/h3\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003C/span\u003EIf you\u2019re using your own equipment, you should always check it before you leave. It\u2019s the responsibility of the permit holder to check equipment. However, this task could easily be delegated to one of the leadership team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ELarge items, such as tents, ropes or canoes, should be checked at least 6 weeks before departure. If you discover any defects or parts missing, 6 weeks gives you plenty of time to repair and find replacements.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESmaller items of kit, such as pots and pans, axes, buckets, kitchen utensils and lamps, should be checked at least 2 weeks before you leave. This means that items, such as cooking pots, will be clean and ready to use.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAny equipment that you\u2019ve hired or borrowed from another group should be looked at before you take it away. Any problems with it should be written down and photographed. Before using it, anything broken should be fixed or anything missing should be found, either by the owner or one of your team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERemember to keep all the hired equipment together when using it. This means the item is well looked after and helps to avoid anything going missing, meaning any deposits can be given back and disputes are avoided.\u003Cspan\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Check equipment before leaving "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen checking kit, make sure all of it\u2019s safe for use. If there\u2019s any doubt, either fix it or get rid of it.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ELook out for items that are gas or fuel-powered, the shafts of axes and mallets, and any life-safety equipment to check they\u2019re all in a safe condition. You may need help checking specialist equipment, so get in touch with someone experienced and see if they\u2019ll take a look for you.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPieces of equipment are designed to do a certain thing. Using them for a different purpose can be risky and could result in the equipment being damaged.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOne good example is metal tent poles. It may be tempting to use tent poles as goal posts or to use them to mark out a playing area, but avoid mis-using equipment not for its intended purpose or function. Make sure that each item is being used for its correct purpose or function to avoid damage or injury, and always make sure that everything\u2019s being used safely.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Check that all the equipment is safe\u00A0"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen you return from an event, it\u2019s important to spend time carefully checking and putting items away. This will save time when you or other people want to use the equipment next time - it also helps us carry out our Scout values of care and respect.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEverything you put away should be dry and clean. Make sure to list any damaged items, so that they can get repaired.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAny leftover food should be donated or thrown away, as storing it may attract pests. Some food products may be able to be stored securely in air-tight containers, such as if it\u2019s a tinned item. Make sure any food items are stored off the ground.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou should check that all cooking equipment has been thoroughly cleaned, including pots, pans, utensils, chopping boards and mixing bowls. Unclean items may cause illness when they\u2019re next used or may attract pests. Cool boxes should be washed out, dried and stored with the lids off.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll tents and other canvas needs to be thoroughly dried out, while all groundsheets should be brushed off. Both need to be properly folded away into their respective bags. Similarly, rope needs to be dried out and preferably hung up when stored. Tent pegs should be cleaned of mud and dried, before being stored with their respective tent or all together in a suitable container.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EGas lamps and stoves should be empty when stored. Keep any leftover gas or fuel in a suitable, secure container and store it in an appropriate place. It should be clearly marked and labelled with regulation \u2018flammable substance\u2019 warning signs.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Storing equipment\u00A0"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u2019re borrowing equipment, make a note of what you\u2019re taking and when you need to give it back. You should also make a note of what condition the items are in. It can be helpful to take photos of the condition and way the items are stored. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EMake sure you check the item\u2019s condition before you take anything and double-check that you\u2019ve planned time to return things you\u2019ve borrowed.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EReturning equipment late or in a bad condition may mean you won\u2019t be able to borrow it next time.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Returning equipment "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EKeeping canvas in good condition: \u003C/strong\u003ECanvas should be treated from time to time with a waterproofing solution. Campers shouldn\u2019t touch the inside of a tent when it rains, or they\u2019ll disturb the water droplets trapped in the canvas and let them seep through. Using a flysheet helps keep the water off the inside canvas. Bags and other items should also be kept away from the sides of the tent for the same reason.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPacking a wet tent:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/strong\u003ETry not to pack up a wet or damp tent. However, if this is unavoidable, you must unpack and dry it thoroughly as soon as possible when you get back. Mildew soon causes guy lines and brailing loops to rot. The easiest way to dry a tent is to pitch it outside to dry in the sun. Modern tents can easily be pegged to a washing line.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EStorage:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/strong\u003EAlways store the tent with its poles, a mallet and the correct number of pegs, ready for its next use. Make sure you\u2019ve handed it back in a good condition with the poles and pegs, too. Each tent is different but usually folds into two or three sections. You then roll it up before putting it into the tent bag.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ENaked flames: \u003C/strong\u003ENaked flames and tents don\u2019t mix. Stoves, candles and barbecues must never be used inside tents, as a stray flame can set a tent on fire very quickly. There\u2019s also an additional risk from \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/managing-a-safe-scout-premises/carbon-monoxide-co/\u0022 title=\u0022Carbon monoxide (CO)\u0022\u003Ecarbon monoxide\u003C/a\u003E. Battery-powered lamps should be used inside tents. You must only use gas-powered lights outside.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWeather:\u0026nbsp;\u003C/strong\u003EIf very adverse weather is forecast, with high winds, torrential rain or flooding, tents can become easily damaged and dangerous if they collapse or come loose. Take this into account when deciding if the weather conditions mean you need to cancel your event. Even if no one is hurt, it would be very costly to replace ruined tents.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMonitor the guy lines: \u003C/strong\u003EWhile on camp, make sure all non-synthetic (natural fibre) rope guy lines are loosened at night or during rain, as the moisture causes the fibres to expand, making them tighter. Adjust these as appropriate in the morning when you get up. Nylon guy lines don\u2019t need to be loosened as they don\u2019t shrink. Guy lines should be checked and tightened every now and then to stop the canvas sagging. However, guy lines shouldn\u2019t be too tight at any time, as this can also put a strain on the tent material and the poles. The guy line tension should be even all around the tent.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMove\u0026nbsp;\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Etents around: \u003C/strong\u003EMoving the tents occasionally lets the grass underneath recover. You should move the tents slightly if you\u2019re there for more than a week.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"7 top tips for caring for your tent "}]},{"gridType":"gridImageBlock","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","image":"/media/uaqluy35/two-scouts-on-camp.jpg","width":6977,"height":4651,"altText":"Two Scouts in uniform are standing outside in front of some green tents.","caption":"","link":null},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETop 10 packing tips\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h3\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ERemember everything needs to be labelled. Permanent marker initials, stickers or engraved names on items helps to find the right item, especially when several people turn up with the exact same thing.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"1. Label everything"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ETalk through what each item will be used for as you go, such as what to wear at night-time or if there\u2019s bad weather. Perhaps include a list or a photo record of everything that goes into the bag. This\u2019ll help with getting everything packed up again at the end of camp.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"2. Pack together"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ESeparate clothes into bags to help keep organised.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou could label outfits by activity, such as \u2018swim-kit\u2019 or pack each kind of clothing in different colour bags, such as t-shirts in yellow and socks in blue. This makes things easier to find when you are rummaging around your rucksack.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou should have a cloth bag for plates and cutlery, such as tote bag.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"3. Separate items"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EHave an extra bag for dirty clothing to go in, such as a bin bag. This\u2019ll help make sure that the mud stays in one place. An old shower cap works really well to cover the bottom of muddy boots, too.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"4. Be prepared for mud"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIf you don\u2019t have some items, talk to your group before buying anything. They may have spare kit or good advice on where to buy it second-hand.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"5. Borrow first before buying"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EBring more spares and layers, especially for bed, than you think you\u2019ll need. It\u2019s always good to put spare socks in your day bag for a mid-afternoon switch.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","label":"6.  Always pack extra"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EA wet bag is heavier and soggy clothes will put a dampener on your trip.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EVery few rucksacks are 100% waterproof, so try to put everything inside a rucksack liner or clean rubble sack for extra protection.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIf possible, avoid tying things to your pack, as they\u2019ll be exposed to the elements.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"7. Dryness is golden"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EPut the things you\u2019ll need least or last at the bottom, such as spare items. At the top of the bag should be some waterproof clothing and ready to throw on.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"8. Pack what you\u0027ll need first or most at the top"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EOnce it\u2019s packed, try your rucksack or holdall and walk around your home. If it\u2019s too heavy, you can reduce it down or redistribute items \u2013 your back will thank you for it!\u003C/p\u003E","label":" 9. Have a test run"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe people running the trip know best as to what you\u2019ll need and there\u2019s always a good reason for every item on the list.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAsk if you\u2019ve any questions and make sure to let them know if there\u2019s anything you\u2019re missing, so they can help you get it.\u003C/p\u003E","label":" 10. Follow the kit list and advice of people leading the trip"}]},{"gridType":"gridImageBlock","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","image":"/media/c1djzire/a-scout-smiling-while-helping-to-put-tents-up.jpg","width":6775,"height":4517,"altText":"A Scout wearing a green and brown necker puts up a patrol tent.","caption":"","link":null},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow can I stay safe when camping and cooking outdoors?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen camping and cooking outdoors, or taking part in other recreational outdoor activities, you may be taking part in activities that potentially put people at greater risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETake a look at \u003Ca href=\u0022/news/2025/november/how-to-stay-safe-from-carbon-monoxide-with-gas-distribution-networks/\u0022 title=\u0022How to stay safe from Carbon Monoxide\u0022\u003Ehow to stay safe from carbon monoxide\u003C/a\u003E and our\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/safe-camping-residentials-and-outdoor-skills/gas-safety-liquified-petroleum-gas/\u0022 title=\u0022Gas safety: Liquified Petroleum Gas\u0022\u003Egas safety advice for on camps and outdoor cooking\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHere are some top tips to help keep you safe:\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":true,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENever use barbecues, candles, camping stoves or portable heaters in enclosed spaces (such as tents, yurts caravans or cabins), without proper ventilation. If you need a sheltered cooking area, consider an open sided gazebo, dining shelter or a marquee that has sufficient air circulation and ventilation.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Keep cooking sources and areas ventilated"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAlways properly and regularly maintain appliances, and only use them for their intended purpose. Never use cooking appliances, such camping stoves, hot plates or barbecues, as heaters.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Maintain appliances and use for intended purpose"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECampfires and barbecues are still dangerous even once you\u2019ve finished cooking. Barbecues and campfires can give off CO even after they\u2019ve gone out.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAlways cook or use appliances in a properly ventilated area. Never cook in small poorly ventilated spaces or areas where people sleep. If you need a sheltered cooking area, consider a gazebo or a tent porch with sufficient air circulation and ventilation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECO can build up without you knowing, putting you and the people around you at risk.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ENever move or use a barbecue, campfire or gas lamp indoors or in an enclosed space, such as a tent. You can use battery-operated or solar powered lamps, instead of gas lamps.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAll gas powered items need plenty of ventilation to prevent producing carbon monoxide.\u00A0Never use gas stoves, barbecues, fuel burners, gas lamps, or patio or camping heaters to heat your tent when cold. Instead, stay warm by making sure you layer your clothing, and pick up a warmer sleeping bag.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Leave barbecues, gas lamps and campfires outdoors"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENever operate petrol or diesel powered generators and engines in enclosed spaces. Petrol or diesel powered engines and generators can produce CO when used in enclosed spaces without sufficient air supply and ventilation.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Keep generators and engines ventilated"}]}]}],"config":null}]},"searchDescription":"","pageType":null,"location":null,"browserTitle":"","versionDate":"19 December 2023","reviewDate":"01/01/0001","redirectUrl":"","id":78261,"nodeName":"Packing tips, kit guidance and looking after equipment","title":"Packing tips, kit guidance and looking after equipment","type":"contentPage","image":null,"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Packing tips, kit guidance and looking after equipment","headerSubTitle":"","headerCta":"","headerCtaText":"","headerCtaLink":"","headerBackgroundColour":"ffe627","showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":[]},"subHeader":"","silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC83ODI2MSJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/planning-your-programme/nights-away-and-camping/packing-for-residential-events-and-nights-away/packing-tips-kit-guidance-and-looking-after-equipment/"}