Gear List

Knife:
Boys should use a folding multifunction knife.  One-handed assisted-open knife should not be used.
Swiss Army Boy Scout Huntsman.

Compass:
One of the key elements of advancement is orienteering with map and compass.  A simple baseplate compass is ideal.  Lensatic compases (military style typically) are discouraged because they are not as easy to use.  Silva Polaris

Water bottle:
Canteens are not effective on campouts and hikes.  A Nalgene wide-mouth water bottle is ideal.  It has a standard threaded cap that fits other types of hydration equipment and they are virtually indestructable.  Nalgene

Bowl:
A standard bowl size is most preferred.  This lexan bowl is perfect and is also indestructable.
Timber Creek Lexan Bowl.

Spork:
This is a handy utensil that functions as a spoon or fork.  A heavy-duty plastic fork and spoon from the grocery store works as well.  Light My Fire Spork

Sleeping bag:
Synthetic bags rated at 30 degrees and above is the best choice.  For those who wish to get excel in backpacking should pay a little more and get a highly complessible bag that can pack well on a backpacking journey.

Sleeping pad:
Sleeping pads provide comfort and insulation from the ground.  Boys are less sensitive to the comfort issue than adults, but insulation remains important. 

Rain gear:
Ponchos are not as useful as a rain coat and rain pants.  There are many options.  The simplest and cheapest are Frogg Toggs DriDucks.

Tent:
Backpacking style two-man tents are ideal.  Boys should be doubling up in tents on backpacking trips, so a two-man is best.  Cabela's XPG Ultralight Tent

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