Hike Kit List

The following list is a guide to what is generally required when going on a hike although more specific information may be given at the time by the leader. It is strongly recommended that the section members are encouraged to find out from handbooks what is necessary and to pack their own kit.

The following is required for all hikes whatever the duration

RucksackSmall for day hike, 65 litre for overnight. Don't forget the thick plastic liner, in case of rain.
Clothing suitable for the time of yearGenerally long trousers are better than shorts
Spare mid-layer - e.g. fleece 
SocksVery good quality, 1 or 2 fresh pairs per day.
Walking Boots 
Hat and glovesWith so much body heat lost through the head in winter a woolly / fleece hat is essential. To help prevent heat stroke a peaked baseball style is best for summer
Waterproof jacket and trousers 
Gaiters If muddy
 
WaterIn leak proof container
Food as appropriateE.g. lunch and snacks. Make sure any equipment required is also included such as a tin opener, eating kit or stove. 
 
Watch 
Torch, spare batteries and bulbNight hikes or if risk of returning after dusk 
 
Compass, map and mapcase 
Suncream/sunglassesDepending upon time of year
Notebook/pencil 
 
Spare moneyIncluding coins for phone 
First Aid KitSmall personal kit
Emergency rationsE.g. chocolate bar, not to be eaten!
Whistle 
Survival bag 

If the hike is overnight or longer then the following will also be required (although some of these can be split between members of the team).

Sleeping bagStuffsac based type. Sealed in a strong bin liner.
PillowAir pillows are good. You can always take an empty pillow case and fill it with clothes at night!
Roll matKeeps you off the ground at night, and therefore warmer
 
Eating kit (unbreakable plate, bowl, cup)Mess tins or compact plastic or metal
Cutlery (knife, fork, spoon)Camp sets are best as they link together and can include tin openers etc.
Tea Towel 
Drawstring bagSimply keeps all your canteen stuff together
 
Spare clothesSealed in plastic
Spare shoesE.g. for wearing when around the tent in the evening
NightwearEven in summer it can get cold at night. It is important that day clothes are not worn at night
Wash kit (flannel, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste)Keep in a waterproof bag. Using soap and toothbrush containers is a good idea to keep everything separate.
Towel 
 
Hankies/tissuesSmall packs are ideal
Personal hygiene productsIf required
Medication 
 
Plastic bags or sacks for dirty washing/boots 
 
Tent 
Water containers 
Cooking pans, cooker and fuelIn suitable containers
MatchesProtect/waterproof
Washing-up kit 
Tin openerIf required by menu
Food 
Thermos FlaskOptional
Spare string/ropeDo record your holiday if you have a camera. Expensive cameras are, however, not recommended.
TrowelIf no public toilets 
Clothes pegs 
Cards/bookFor the evening 

Notes

  1. Most of this kit is also required for any other outdoor activities
  2. You are reminded that electronic equipment is generally not allowed during Scouting activities. The only notable exception is during a Hike, when Patrol Leaders are allowed to have a mobile phone for emergency use only.
  3. The Scout Group cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to any personal effects and the Scout Association does not provide automatic insurance for such items.