| Camping is always
more fun when you have come prepared with the right kind of clothes and
equipment. Weather, length of stay and the terrain of your campsite
will determine what and how much personal and troop equipment you will
need. Remember the
right kind of clothes for every child make all the difference between
having fun and being miserable on a camping trip. Of course, in cool
weather the girls are likely to be observant of adequate dress, but all
too often they are not prepared for our usual hot weather. The
following items are always necessary for everyone on every campout.
 Shoes:
In parks and in campgrounds that are free of rocks, tennis shoes are fine.
If you are hiking in rocky places or wading in water, tennis shoes are a
must. In rough terrain, well-broken-in oxfords or boots are
necessary to protect feet from bruises. Canvas shoes do not have
heavy enough soles, nor do they have protection for the instep.
Socks: Socks
are required to prevent blisters. For hiking it is preferable to
wear heavy (wool if possible) socks. Socks should be in good repair
-- if they are frayed at the heel or toe, the wear will soon be on the
bare foot. Wool socks don't feel any warmer in summer, and protect
much better than any other kind of socks.
Hat: The
head and neck are the most critical portion of the body for regulation of
body temperature. The brain receives 20 percent of the body's blood
supply and 25 percent of it's oxygen and can radiate a great deal of heat
to the surrounding area. If your head and neck are cold, you will
shiver; if your head and neck are overheated in the hot sun, you can
become dizzy and possibly suffer heat stroke. In cold weather, wear
a hat for warmth and in hot weather, wear a hat for protection from heat.
A bandana knotted at the four corners and repeatedly soaked in water
provides "air conditioning" for a hot head.
Pants:
In cleared areas or trails where bugs are not a problem, shorts are fine.
In brushy country, or where bugs are plentiful, jeans or long pants will
prevent scratched or chewed legs. At high altitudes or near water,
sunburn may be a problem and legs may need to be covered for protection
from the sun. (Nettles are innocent-looking plants found near water
-- they will leave you with an unpleasant reminder that you brushed
against them.)
Shirts:
Always wear shirts with sleeves; sunburn prevention is one of the most
important reasons. The shoulders and neck are much more easily
burned than the legs. In brush country, or where there are plenty of
bugs, long sleeves may be necessary.
NO Suitcases
NO Sandals
NO Halter Tops
NO Gum, Candy or Snacks
Pack everything but your sack
lunch, whistle, permission slip and camera in your sleeping bag or you may
carry your sleeping back in its own bag and pack your gear in a small
stuff bag. Mark all equipment clearly. |
