Troop 22 Recommended Equipment for Outdoor Activities

Many of our Parents often ask us about ‘gift’ ideas for the holidays and or birthdays. Below is an idea of some items you can keep your eyes open for to perhaps put under the tree, in a stocking or really just about give for any occasion. If you have any questions about the product brand, please speak to our dedicated leaders.

String backpack is used for short hikes and summer camp and most families have these in abundance.
Day hiking backpack, which is similar to a school backpack, but usually has an additional check or belt strap for stability. Anything 20-30L in size is fine. An internal or external framed backpack is used for more strenuous and overnight hiking and backpacking and should only be purchased once your Scout is ready to participate in these activities.
GOOD Sleeping bag – we live in the Northeast and it can get down to the 40s even in the summer. Anything with a 40 comfort rating will be good year round. Some Scouts prefer a mummy style to a more rectangular traditional style. It is essential that you measure the sleeping bag by the comfort rating and NOT the survival rating.
Sleeping pad – pairs with the sleeping bag to ensure comfortable sleeping on rugged surfaces. You can purchase an inflatable pad or a roll. Be sure your inflatable pad does not require electricity or batteries.
Camping pillow – these are typically inflatable and ultimately optional – some Scouts and adults swear by them and some just use rolled up clothes, their daypack, or don’t need a pillow.
Canteen/water bottle – Two 1L sized BPA free bottles that can fit in the string backpack or daypack. Should only be used for plain or electrolyte water and not used for juice, milk, coffee, etc.
Mess Kit– Every Scout must bring and maintain their own mess kit on every campout. We do not use or provide paper products on campouts. BPA free rugged plastic or metal are fine. Should include a spork.
Flashlight – LIGHTWEIGHT is best and many scouts want hands free so they purchase headlamps. USB chargeable flashlights and headlamps are common, usually last long enough for a weekend campout, and can be easily recharged vs. having to travel with extra batteries.
Compass – A non-digital compass is a must and reinforces to not be entirely dependent upon modern technology for navigation.
Wicking Clothing, including a knit cap (we sell these!), wicking shirts (typically $10-20 for a set of 3), wool socks (typically $3-5 for a pair). It is also advisable to have long sleeve undergarments for cold nights, which occur even in the middle of summer in NJ!
Poncho is a must have to keep not only your body but your backpack and all of your gear dry in the rain.
Hiking shoes/boots — there are many kinds and types — don’t buy cheap — talk to our Hiking Masters!
Sharpie Pen – Used to put your Scouts initials on ALL of the equipment above. Please don’t forget this step!

Here are our recommendations on where to shop for Scout, camping, hiking, and other outdoors gear.

Official Scout Stores (Patches, Ranks, Merit Badge books, Scout uniforms and activewear, etc.):

Northern New Jersey Scout Shop in Oakland, NJ
Patriots Path Mountainside Scout Shop in Mountainside, NJ
Alpine Scout Camp Trading Post in Alpine, NJ
Staten Island Scout Shop in Staten Island, NY

Additional stores where you can purchase official Boy Scout clothing and accessories (no Council specific items at these stores):

Ramsey Outdoor Store in Ramsey, NJ
Zeppelin Hobbies in Wayne, NJ (note – mostly Cub Scout items, limited BSA selection)

You can also purchase national level Scouts clothing and accessories online at scoutshop.org.

For camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities gear and accessories, we recommend:

Sierra Trading Post in East Hanover, NJ
Ramsey Outdoor Store in Ramsey, NJ
Campmor in Paramus, NJ
REI in Paramus, NJ or East Hanover, NJ
Dick’s Sporting Goods in Wayne, NJ or East Hanover, NJ