Archways Packing List

If you have experience backpacking or camping, you may have your own preferences and we are totally open to that. This packing list is our best suggestion for introducing the kind of gear we will need while we are in the woods. As a program we have sleeping bags, hammocks, and backpacks that can be loaned at no extra cost for this trip. We would much rather you borrow from us than spend money on expensive gear if you are only planning on using it for one trip! As for buying your own gear, we encourage you to go out to your local outdoor store and support small local businesses. Keep in mind that with gear, you really do get what you pay for. Along with personal gear, each member on Archways will help carry “group gear” such as stoves, fuel, tarps, and other things that will be needed by everyone in the group. This is an in-depth list of personal gear. For personal use, each member will need:

Gear

• *Large backpack (50 liters or larger, internal or external frame): this pack would need to fit sleeping bag, clothing, food, have some room for group gear, and be comfortable enough to carry for long periods.
• *Camping hammock (We have enough for everyone, but if you prefer your own you are welcome to use it.)
• *Sleeping bag (Lightweight synthetic or down mummy bag.) A cotton, fleece or nylon liner can work as a substitute for or added comfort to a sleeping bag. Nighttime temperatures could drop to 50 degrees.
• 2- water bottles (64 oz. total capacity.) Nalgene bottles are popular.
• Plate or bowl, utensils (Durable but lightweight; a Tupperware with a lid works great.)
• Headlamp w/extra batteries
• Bible and 2 pens (We will provide a small journal, but you may prefer your own.)
• Toothbrush, contacts, deodorant, other personal items (Prescription meds, etc.) in a small Ziplock
• Sunscreen
• Large trash bag – this is for lining your pack.

Activity Clothes

• Hiking footwear – Ideally you have some comfortable boots with ankle support specifically designed for hiking and backpacking that are broken in. Make sure to break your boots in before the trip. Blisters do not make for a very good day. A pair of comfortable hiking shoes or even tennis shoes will be better than a pair of boots that are not broken in.
• 2 pair of shorts (Lightweight, quick-drying fabrics such as polyester, nylon or synthetics are better, but cotton can work. Thrift stores are a great place to find non-cotton clothes for cheap.)
• 3 shirts (Lightweight, quick-drying fabrics are better, but again, cotton can work for this.)
• 3 pairs of socks (Non-cotton is required. Spending money on socks is MORE beneficial than any other clothing item. Thorlo, Smartwool, Wigwam, and Keene are examples of popular brands.)
• Rain Jacket

Camp Clothes

These clothes are meant to keep you dry & comfortable after a day of activity. Cotton fabrics are fine.

• Camp shoes (tennis shoes or sandals with a heel strap and sturdy sole — flip-flops and Crocs are NOT effective around camp.)
• 1 short-sleeved shirt
• 1 long-sleeved shirt
• 1-2 pairs of socks
• 1 pair of shorts
• 1 pair of pants/leggings (Something lighter than jeans if possible, such as exercise pants.)

Optional

• Bandana
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Camera