Resources

Troop gear is provided for every campout. This includes tents, stoves, dishes and all other patrol gear. Patrols usually bring bowls, plates and utensils as well. 

Personal Gear in order of importance:

• Sturdy closed toe shoes are required

• Rain Gear

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping pad (closed cell foam instead of inflatable pads preferred)

• Flashlight/headlamp

• Day pack

Hiker Direct is a favorite gear resource for BSA.  Register with Troop 72 and get access to heavily discounted gear.

https://hikerdirect.com

Backpacking equipment is personal for every individual, there are very few gear recommendations for an 80 pound 12 yr old that will also work for 160 pound 16 yr old.  That said, there are some tried and true specifics.

First rule: Less is more; carry only what you need so the hike is easier, you're less tired, and you can have more fun.

Most equipment available at REI is sufficient for scouts, and the staff can help fit a pack. Hiker Direct is a favorite gear resource for BSA but internet gear is hard to size. Register with Troop 72 and get access to heavily discounted gear. https://hikerdirect.com  

Avoid amazon purchases unless you verify the brand and model.  Most amazon recommendations generally fail within a year of serious use.

Troop 72 (and adventure camps such as Philmont) provides cooking gear and tents. The seven essentials are shared amongst the patrol to reduce redundancy.

Preparing for a normal weekend trip these common items are required:

• Rain Gear

• Flashlight/headlamp

• Water bottles

• Snacks

Basic backpacking gear also includes:

• Backpack (55 to 65 liter capacity)

  • Packs should have an adjustable torso to allow for teenage growth and the belt should fit the smaller waist)

  • https://alpsmountaineering.com has excellent prices once you sign up for Hiker Direct.  

• Sleep System (sleeping pad, bag and pillow)

  • 20 degree, under 3 pound synthetic bag is recommended for most all Troop 72 trips  

  • Closed cell foam is recommended Alps Example

  • Inflatable foam is another more expensive, heavier option Alps Example 

  • Personal tent or a troop tent with a buddy

• Footwear (Hiking shoes should be mid to high, lighter is better but support is encouraged).  Test before you buy, every foot is different.  REI in Charlotte is highly recommended for footwear.

  • Hiking shoes/boots

  • pair of light tennis shoes / sandals for camp/creek crossings.  

• Mess kit (one bowl/mug and a spoon/spork.  Pocket knife is your dinner knife if needed)

• Wool or synthetic socks (2 pair)

• Hiking clothes

• Sleeping clothes

• Cool weather shell (not a cotton hoodie, fleece or poly)

• Troop 72 Facebook group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/139308372062

• Pack 72: https://www.scouts72.org/

• Scoutbook:  https://scoutbook.scouting.org/

• Medical Forms:  https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr/

• Leader/Parent Training:  https://my.scouting.org/

• BSA:  https://www.scouting.org/

• Mecklenburg County Council:  https://www.mccscouting.org/

• Scout Shop:  https://www.scoutshop.org/

• Summer camp:  https://www.mycampgrimes.org/index.phtml

• Rank Requirements: from scouting.org

• Merit Badge Requirements: from scouting.org