One Wood Badge candidate's opinions on what equipment to take camping (or not)

PACK AND ACCESSORIES

While most of this website is dedicated to what goes in the pack, this page is about the pack itself and other pieces of gear that you might wear or carry.

Jansport D3 External Frame Pack


Jansport D3 External Frame Pack   This is a photo of a Jansport D3 external frame backpack. I bought mine when I was a Boy Scout, and have used it for every campout I have been on for almost 30 years, including numerous 50-Miler trips through the Rocky Mountains and the Canadian Northern Tier area. Although Jansport has not made this particular pack for many years, I was able to purchase 2 more just like my old one on Craigslist that were in new and almost new condition for about $75 each. As far as I know, this is the 2nd largest external frame backpack that Jansport has ever made, with the D2 being the largest. Jansport only recently brought out the D2 again.



Camelbak


Camelbak   My wife bought me a Camelbak M.U.L.E., like the one shown here, several years ago. At the time, I didn't understand how useful this item would be. I now use my Camelbak frequently, primarily for day hikes and long outdoor events that require constant hydration. This particular model has several pockets and an expandable cargo area. I keep a variety of items in my Camelback at all times, including a first aid kit, sun block, rope, lighter (and waterproof matches), flashlight, pocket knife, a whistle, cheap plastic poncho, compass (and map), and some snacks.


Camp Stool


Camp Stool   While a hardcore backpacker might consider this item totally unnecessary or frivolous, it can be nice to have a camp stool with you if you don't want to sit on the ground, rocks, or logs. This fairly light tripod stool folds up and can be strapped onto your backpack. It is available in red, green, or blue, and can be purchased from the Philmont Trading Post (the Tooth of Time Traders) for $12.00 at the time of this posting. Both of my sons have this item, and they like them very much.