Tent

If you don’t already own one, it’s suggested that you buy a simple one-room dome-type. If you are planning on just car camping (not for boy scout expeditionary hikes into the back country), buying a tent that is larger than needed is helpful because the tent size rating is similar to the size of the sleeping bag. A 4-person tent will hold four sleeping bags next to each other without room for any other gear. Buy a larger one or go see them at REI Arcadia.  You'll be most comfortable in a tent that accommodates 1-2 more people than needed (i.e. a family of four would buy a 6-person tent).

Although the ones with multiple rooms can be fun after they’re set up, if you’ve never set one up before, then you’ll discover that while everyone else has finished their simple tents and are enjoying the camp, you’re still trying to figure out what all those funny poles are supposed to do.  To extend the life of your tent, it’s also a good idea to bring along a ground cloth, tarp, or old sheet or blanket to place under the tent.

Sleeping Pads or Air Mattress

There are three main types of padding that people use.  We highly recommend having a sleeping pad, even if it’s just the pad from your patio furniture to insulate you from the cold ground.

1. Foam pad:  This is usually the cheapest option and depending on your preferences might be good enough.

2. Self-inflating foam pad:  These compact pads are made of a 1 to 2 inch thick foam pad which is surrounded by an air-tight shell, so you get both the thermal insulation of foam plus the comfort of an inflatable mattress.  They also are quick and easy to inflate and deflate. Prices range from $20 to $100 depending on the brand, thickness, and length.  If you just bought a new one or have stored yours for a long time, be sure to open it up a couple days before so that it regains its full shape before your first night of camping.

3. Inflatable air mattress:  These are fairly inexpensive and many people find them comfortable, although you will need a pump and extra time to inflate and deflate them.  Most places won't have electricity so inflatable beds with electric pumps (Aerobeds) won't work.  You also run the risk of it springing a leak and having to constantly inflate it throughout the night.

Sleeping Bag

Options and quality of sleeping bags ranges widely, with the primary choices being fill material (down vs. synthetic), temperature rating (how much insulation is used) and sleeping bag shape (mummy vs. rectangular vs. hybrid).  For the car camping trips that we take in Cub Scouts, a synthetic bag will be fine and is much cheaper for the same temperature rating.  A “summer bag” with a temperature rating of 35°F is probably good enough, but this depends a lot on how warm you like to be when sleeping.  If in doubt, be sure to bring some extra blankets or spend a little extra to get a “three-season bag” that’s good for a wider range of temperatures. Finally, mummy bags tend to be a little warmer, while the rectangular ones are roomier so a little more comfortable. When you get home, depending on the specific insulation material, you can extend the life of your sleeping bag by storing it in a larger stuff sack or garbage bag.  This helps the insulation maintain its puffiness. 

Footwear

While there are no specific BSA rules on what types of footwear are required, we ask that scouts and parents use their best judgement in footwear when participating in scout activities.  A general rule of thumb is not to wear open toed shoes or sandals (flip-flops) on hikes & camping trips.  Sneakers and hiking shoes or boots are recommended for most activities. .