I have been asked several questions lately from our new scouts.. I thought it might help if I tried to list and answer them in one place..
- What do the boys need to bring on the campout?
- Sleeping - Sleeping pad, sleeping bag or blanket
- Personal - toothbrush past etc.. Headlamp or flashlight
- eating - mess kit (plate, utensils, cup)
- WATER BOTTLE!!!
- Clothing - Field Uniform, troop T, and 1 change of cloths, hat
- What will the boys eat?
- Each patrol assigns a grub master for the campout
- the grub master is responsible for obtaining the food (parents will take them shopping)
- The grub master is responsible for collecting the money and buying the food.
- they should collect money the meeting before the campout (normally $10, if food is less they will refund if it is more they will let you know how much more)
- Meal plan is decided and will be cooked by the boys.
- NO NUTS! Peanuts, cashew, macadamia pistachio, etc... We have a boy in the troop that is allergic and it can be life threatening
- I can't make the camping trip so, I guess my son misses out?
- Absolutely not! The boys can go!
- Parents do not have to go on the trip for your boys togo.
- You are ALWAYS welcome to come on a trip with us.
- How do I help?
- There are many position and needs in the troop.
- If you see something you would like to do, please ask.
- we may ask that you come on a camping trip with us.
- We always need at least 2 leader on a trip
- we sometimes need drivers for transport.
- Should I step in to correct / help my boy?
- We encourage you to help the boys anytime you can.... However...
- When it comes to your boy, unless it is severe, count to 10 and let another scout master or SPL take charge and handle it.
- You will find that the boys often are able to handle their peers quite well, and they are backed up by other adults to help.
- I have 2 boys in the troop and try, (not always successfully) to take a breath and let it work out with help of another boy or SM.
- What is an SPL?
- SPL - Senior Patrol Leader
- The SPL is in charge of the troop.
- He is responsible for duty roster, leading meetings
- He works with the Scoutmaster to determine the troop activities
- How will the boys tent
- Normally the boys will sleep 2-3 to a tent
- assignments should be made the meeting prior by the SPL and or the Patrol leader.
- Do I need to have a tent?
- Eventually, yes
- Does not need to be expensive
- 2-3 man tent is great
- Buy a good one, Coleman, Kelty, Eureka, have good smaller tents.
- You do not want a family tent, the boys will be carrying them
- buy the Cheaper one ( young boys will loose and break pieces)
- Depending on how well you son likes hiking and backpacking, they may want a lighter better tent later. WAIT - don’t break the bank on a great tent yet. You will find deals, and needs many change.
- We can always help you find gear, so dont think you need to run out and get out fitted for ulta backpack trip! You dont..
- If you have large purchases talk to one of the Scout Masters we can tell you what is good and useful vs cool.
- You want to balance lasting quality with the wear and tear of younger boys.
