PACKING LIST
Getting Started

Because our courses are characterized by unpredictable weather, obtaining the proper clothing is crucial. Please bring all the items as described on the "Required Clothing and Gear" list below. You can find these items at camping, outdoor, Army/Navy surplus, and thrift stores. Clothing and gear can be expensive—shop around before you buy and keep these helpful tips in mind:

  1. Start at the thrift store.
  2. Buy last year’s model.
  3. Don’t worry about colors or style.

Your choices should be governed by whether or not the piece of clothing or gear will meet our requirements, not if it is the best looking or newest! Consider leaving the tags on any new items you have purchased and saving the receipts; in the event that an item is not needed for your expedition or you do not use it, you should be able to return it when you get back home. 

NOTE: When you arrive for course start, you will not have an opportunity to purchase forgotten items.  

If you are looking to shop online, many students use the following websites to find their clothing and gear:

On the first night of the course, your instructors will issue you the equipment provided by Outward Bound and assess all of the clothing/equipment you’ve brought in order to ensure that it meets the requirements of the expedition. You’ll repack exactly what you need into packs provided by Outward Bound. Everything you don’t need during the expedition, including your shower supplies, clean clothes for the trip home, valuables, and electronics will stay in your luggage and be stored in a secure location for the duration of the course. These items will be returned to you at the end of the trip. 

Equipment Provided by Outward Bound

Outward Bound will provide you with these items:

  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping mat
  • Backpack
  • Rain gear
  • All group camping, cooking, and traveling equipment

You only need to bring what’s on the Required Clothing and Gear list, mainly your personal clothing, toiletries, footwear, and a few additional items. We strongly discourage the use of personal camping equipment on Voyageur Outward Bound School courses because of the heavy wear and tear. We feel confident that the equipment we provide will best serve your needs on the expedition; it will keep you safe, warm and dry. If you have questions about using a piece of personal equipment normally provided by Outward Bound, please contact your course advisor to discuss. If you do decide to bring a piece of personal equipment, your instructors reserve the right to inspect it and ensure that it will adequately serve your needs during the expedition. If they do not think it will work, you can leave it with your luggage at the basecamp during the expedition.

Layering Principles

Our packing list is based on layering principles; dressing in several light layers rather than one heavy layer allows you more flexibility as the weather and your exertion levels change. When shopping or packing, it is a good idea to try on all of your layers at once to ensure that they fit over one another. Read the information below to get a better idea of what we’re talking about.

  1. Inner Layer: This is usually called the wicking layer (long underwear, liner socks, and sometimes gloves) – Moisture is the enemy of warmth. Sweat from physical activity like backpacking, paddling, or climbing is your body’s attempt to cool itself off. Synthetic long underwear pulls moisture away from your body, so your sweat won’t cool you down too much and make you cold. This layer is worn next to your skin. Cotton items retain moisture and exaggerate sweat’s cooling effect, which is why we’ll sometimes ask you to avoid using cotton clothing.
  2. Middle Layer: This is usually called the insulation layer (fleece tops, wool socks, and sometimes fleece pants) – This layer should be thick and fluffy like a fleece or wool sweater that will trap and store the heat your body is producing. This layer is worn over the top of the base layer. Your packing list might require more than one “insulating layer” like a medium weight fleece and a heavier wool sweater. You can put on several "insulating layer" pieces at a time, so be sure to try them on over the top of your inner layer and over the top of each other to ensure you still have mobility and things aren't too tight.
  3. Outer Layer: This is usually called the wind/shell layer (jackets, pants, and rain gear) – Adding an outer windproof layer prevents the wind from stealing your store of built-up heat. The third layer is worn on top of the base and insulation layers. This layer will take the most wear and tear and look the most weather-beaten by the end of the trip.  For dogsledding courses, we provide all outer layers for you.  For all other courses, rain gear is provided.
Required Clothing & Gear

Head & Hands

  • 1 Warm Beanie. Used on colder days and evenings.  No cotton.
  • 1 Sun Hat. At a minimum, it should shade your face like a baseball cap.  Having a brim all the way around is even better. Made out of something that can get folded up and packed.
  • 1 Pair Warm Gloves.  Thin to mid-weight wool or fleece gloves. These will keep your hands warm during chilly mornings/ evenings.
  • Fleece Balaclava or Neck Gaiter. This is nice for chilly days and especially cold nights to keep the wind out of your sleeping bag.
  • 1 Buff. Versatile lightweight neck gaiter. Buff Example

 Upper Body

  • 1 Medium Weight Long Underwear Tops. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
  • 1 Long Sleeve Sun Shirt.  Loose, lightweight, and light-colored for sun and bug protection. Instructors prefer "sun hoodies" that offer protection for the neck and ears. Example. It’s likely that you won’t want to wear this shirt again after your course because of the wear and tear it will undergo, so don’t spend too much on it.
  • 1 Short Sleeve Shirt. Cotton or quick-drying fabrics are both absolutely fine.  Again, these shirts will experience a lot of wear and tear.
  • 1 Medium-Weight Warm Top. This can be a polyester or 100 weight wool or fleece shirt.  Usually comes with a 1/2 to 3/4's zipper.
  • 1 Heavy Fleece or Synthetic Puffy Jacket. Must have good breathability and dry quickly when wet.  The fleece can usually be found at a thrift store or Salvation Army.  Must fit over all other layers.
  • 1 Lightweight Rain Jacket. This will get pretty worn out in the desert environment so don't get anything fancy. This layer can also be used as a windbreaker. Some good options are: The REI Groundbreaker ($50), Columbia Glennaker Lake ($60), Marmot PreCip ($80) or The North Face Venture 2 ($100) Must fit over all other layers.
  • 2 Sports Bras. Should be appropriate for athletic activity. 

 Lower Body

  • 1 Medium Weight Long Underwear Bottoms. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
  • 1 Pair Fleece Pants. Fleece pants are very important for chilly nights
  • 1 Pair Quick Dry Pants. Lightweight nylon fabric wicks moisture, dries quickly, and is easy to pack. Should be loose fitting to aid in movement and protect against bug bites through the pants (no yoga-style or tight pants). If durable, one pair will last the trip. One pair can be zip-off pants, in which case you do not need Quick Dry Shorts. No cotton.
  • 1 Quick Dry Short. Lightweight nylon fabric wicks moisture, dries quickly, and is easy to pack.  Shouldn't be a swimsuit, though could easily double as a swimsuit or swimsuit bottom.
  • 2-3 Pairs Underwear - Synthetic or Cotton. Synthetic underwear is usually a blend of Nylon and Spandex that breathes well, wicks moisture, and dries quickly. Synthetic is recommended, but cotton is okay as well. For female identifying students, it is recommended to bring 1-2 pairs of each, synthetic and cotton.

 Feet

  • 3-4 Pair Lightweight Hiking Socks. These socks are fairly thin and should be similar to this: Sock Example
  • 1 Pair Hiking Boots. Sturdy, lightweight hiking boots with ankle support. See “Footwear”  for more information.
  • 1 Pair Camp Shoes. Lightweight, sturdy running shoes. Not fashion or skateboarding type sneakers. An old pair of running shoes is just fine.  See “Footwear” for more details.

 Personal Gear

  • 2-3 Bandanas. These will be helpful in multiple different ways and will get ruined throughout the course. Bring old or cheap bandanas that you aren't super attached to. 
  • 1 Pair Sunglasses w/ Keeper Strap and Hard Case. Essential for protecting your eyes in a highly reflective environment. 
  • 1 Waterproof Watch. Does not need to be expensive, but should be waterproof and durable. Digital recommended.
  • 1 Belt.  Any belt will work. Non-leather recommended.
  • 2 Water Bottles. Must be a 32 oz. wide mouth plastic Nalgene-style bottle with a plain lid. No metal bottles
  • 1 Small Headlamp with Extra Batteries.  This is a hands-free flashlight. It is an LED headlamp that uses a minimum of three volts (two or more AA- or AAA-batteries). Bring one extra set of alkaline batteries per week of course

 Toiletries & Other Personal Items

  • 1 Sunscreen. Waterproof, SPF 30 or greater. 8-oz. bottle. No aerosol.
  • 1 Lip Balm. 30+ SPF or greater.
  • 2 Hand Sanitizers. Pocket-sized squeeze bottles of hand sanitizer.
  • 1 Toiletries Kit. Toothbrush, small toothpaste, comb or brush. Students who have periods- Bring plenty of supplies. Change in activities can cause irregular periods.
  • Body Glide/Chafing Cream. If you have experienced chafing in the past, please bring this along for the course.
  • 2 Sets Prescription Medications. If you use prescription medications, including inhalers, please bring enough for the entire course.  If possible, bring a backup set.  If you use an inhaler or have a prescription epi-pen, you must bring two. If you use an albuterol Rescue inhaler please bring a spacer. If you do not currently have one please get one prescribed by your doctor to bring along on the trip. Spacers allow the medicine to get into your lungs faster and play a key role in managing asthma in the back country. Clearly label everything with medication names, dosages and when you take them.  Instructors administer medications for students 21 and younger and will ask for them upon your arrival so pack medications in an accessible place in your carry-on.  Outward Bound should be aware of any medications you are bringing, if not, please contact your course advisor immediately.
  • 2 Pair Glasses or Contacts, if needed.  Both glasses and contacts are acceptable.  Stick with whatever you normally use.  Bring plenty of supplies and at least one set of backup glasses either way.  Because sterile lens care is more difficult on trail, long-term use contacts are not encouraged. Daily disposable contacts are a good option that will help you avoid dirt and dust build-up that might cause damage to your eyes.
  • 1 Medical Insurance Card. Please bring your insurance card, or a copy of the front and back of the card, if you are covered under any medical insurance.  The actual card is preferred.
  • 1 Towel and Shower Supplies. You’ll have a chance to shower after your expedition.  Bring whatever shower supplies you normally use, ideally in travel sizes, and a towel (any cotton towel).  Pack these items in their own kit so it’s easy to find when you return to basecamp.  These items will not go on the expedition with you.
  • 2 Sets Clean Clothes. After you return to basecamp and shower you’ll want clean clothes.  You’ll wear these at the end of your course, including service projects and traveling home.  Don’t forget to include socks and underwear.  

 Travel

  • Money.  Think about bringing $15-$20 for meals on your arrival and departure days.  
  • Travel Information. Carry a copy of the Outward Bound Travel Information for your course (on the tab next to this one) with the Outward Bound phone number in case of travel delays. See this information for directions on what to wear to the start of your course.
  • Cell Phone and Charger.  It’s a good idea to travel with a cell phone in case of travel delays.  However, please note that upon arrival you will be asked to turn off and store your phone in your luggage, which will be locked in a secure area while you are on course.  

 

Footwear

Camp Shoes

Your Camp Shoes are worn each evening and morning at your campsite. They get packed away in a safe spot while you travel so they remain dry. Camp shoes should be lightweight, sturdy running shoes, not sandals. Full coverage shoes are required while you’re cooking and working around the campfire to protect your feet from hot embers and boiling cooking-water.

Some Voyageur Outward Bound School courses finish with a Challenge Event that often involves a running component, and some groups do morning runs or day hikes. You can use your camp shoes for these events. For this reason, you’ll need sturdy running shoes NOT fashion or skateboarding type sneakers.

 

Hiking Boots

Due to the heavy loads and rugged terrain that are part of backpacking in Big Bend it is crucial that you have a sturdy pair of heavy-duty hiking boots for this trip. The most important consideration when buying boots is to find a pair that fit comfortably and do not rub on any part of your foot. This will look different for every student, so make sure you are trying on boots and breaking them in before your course. 

BOOT SPECIFICATIONS

Boots must have strong ankle support, a thick sturdy sole (almost rigid), and a durable outer layer to protect your feet from the many sharp hazards of the desert ground. Full leather boots are ideal for this part of your course, but if you are buying boots last minute DO NOT get full leather boots- you will not have time to break them in. Trails are rough and rocky, and are often lined by sharp-spined plants. Because the desert floor is so rough and unforgiving, it is especially important that your boots provide strong ankle and foot protection.

You should expect that these boots will serve you well for a long period after your course. 

Here is a list of boots that work well on Voyageur Outward Bound School backpacking courses. If you have questions about a boot that’s not listed here, consider the essential requirements – your boots must be sturdy with a strong, protective sole, have full ankle protection (high-top), and provide protection from cactus spikes. If you still have questions about a boot not listed here, send an email to your Course Advisor for their input; include a link so they can view the boot online.

Leather boot optionVasque Talus Pro Boots

  • Pro- Full leather protection from spikes and rocks
  • Con- Will create lots of blisters if not broken in before the course

Leather and Mesh Option: Merrell Moab Boots

  • Pro- very ventilated and comfortable, doesn't need to be broken in too much
  • Pro- A little more breathability than the full leather boots
  • Con- May not be comfortable on all feet.
  • Con- Less protection from spikes and rocks
BOOT FITTING

Start by trying on at least two or three different boot options. Put the first choice on one foot and the second choice on the other. Make sure that you’re wearing the same type of wool socks that you plan to wear during the expedition (refer to the packing list for more detail) and fully lace-up the boots. Start by standing on a downward slanting slope and try to jam your toes towards the front of the boot. Next, take a walk around the store.

  • Your toes should never hit the front of your boot.
  • Your boots should be comfortable with plenty of room to wiggle your toes
  • Your heel might slip as much as 1/8” to 1/4” in the back. Any more than 1/4” is too much
  • You shouldn’t feel any obvious pressure points.
  • If you don’t feel absolutely confident that your boots fit correctly, purchase them and wear them around your house for a few hours (not outside). Bring them back and look for different boots if you still have concerns. 
BOOT CARE

Break in your boots before the course begins! Wear them around town, school and at home as much as possible (several weeks). This simple activity cannot be over-emphasized and is one of the easiest and most important steps in preparing for a successful and comfortable wilderness adventure.

Optional Items

None of these items are required and you will be fine without them.  Please only buy them if you plan to use them again after your course or you think they will be of great assistance to you during the course.  You may be asked to leave these items behind depending on pack-size and weight restrictions.

  • 1 Pair Trekking Poles.  While these are an optional item we HIGHLY recommend this piece of equipment. Trekking Poles will dramatically reduce the impact and weight on your knee joints and leg muscles while providing additional stability in uneven terrain. Adjustable length poles provide the best versatility and comfort.
  • 1 Hydration System.  i.e. CamelBak, Platypus, etc. At least 70 oz. capacity
  • Camera. Waterproof disposables (bring a few) are great and you don’t have to worry about protecting them from the elements.  A small regular camera would also work well, but you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect it.  Ziploc bags work, or consider getting a waterproof case. For digital cameras, we ask that the memory card(s) be blank; please back up your photos and erase your memory cards prior to arriving for course. 
  • 1 Small Package Wet-Wipes.    
  • 1 Hand Lotion. Small tube or bottle to combat dry skin from exposure.
  • Ear Plugs. If you are a light sleeper, earplugs can be very helpful. 
Can I bring...?

i-pods, MP3 players, computers, i-pads, and GPS devices?
Cell phones, tablets, GPS devices and all other electronic devices (exception-digital cameras) are not permitted on course. Electronic devices can be distracting and disruptive to the wilderness experience. Stepping away from these devices encourages participants to focus on their experience and their crewmates.

You are, however, more than welcome to travel to and from your course with whatever technology you choose. When you arrive, we’ll have you turn off all electronic devices and leave them in your luggage.  Your luggage will then be locked in a secure area during your course. At the end of your course, you’ll get everything back. Additionally, please do not bring any emergency response technology. Your instructors will carry emergency communication devices.

cameras?
Cameras are welcomed at Voyageur Outward Bound School. We recommended waterproof disposable cameras. If you elect to bring a non-disposable camera, we advise that you store it in a small “dry bag” or plastic zip-lock bag. Our courses are rigorous and there is a risk of losing or damaging your camera.

For digital cameras, we ask that the memory card(s) be blank; please back up your photos and erase your memory cards prior to arriving for course. Cell phone cameras, tablets, and any other Wi-Fi enabled electronic devices with built-in cameras are not permitted on the course.

my cell phone and use it as a camera?
No, if you’d like to take pictures, please bring a camera that does not have cellular capabilities. No cell-phones will be allowed on the expedition.

a book?
Unless it’s a natural history identification book, we’d ask you to leave books at home. You’ll be very busy during your expedition and will want to spend your downtime with other group members, sleeping, and just relaxing in nature. Books also get damaged easily. You can bring a book for your travel days but don’t plan to bring it on the expedition.

a pocket knife?
Please do not bring any knives with you to your course-start. Your instructors will provide knives as they are needed throughout the expedition.

my own camping gear (sleeping bag, tent, etc.)?
We strongly discourage the use of personal camping equipment on Voyageur Outward Bound School courses because of the heavy wear and tear. We feel confident that the equipment we provide will best serve your needs on the expedition; it will keep you safe, warm and dry. If you have questions about using a piece of personal equipment normally provided by Outward Bound, please contact your course advisor to discuss. If you do decide to bring a piece of personal equipment, your instructors reserve the right to inspect it and ensure that it will adequately serve your needs during the expedition. If they do not think it will work, you can leave it with your luggage at the basecamp during the expedition.

over the counter medications?
Voyageur Outward Bound School Instructors carry an extensive First-Aid kit with ample supply of over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and antacids, among other supplies. Instructors also carry prescription epinephrine injections in case of an anaphylactic emergency. You shouldn’t need to bring your own OTC medication. However, if you frequently take something specific, please consult your course advisor to discuss whether you should bring it or not.

tobacco, drugs, or alcohol?
Tobacco, drugs, and alcohol are NOT permitted on course, this includes both time spent in the wilderness and at basecamp.   

 

Please also DO NOT bring valuables, jewelry, makeup, candy, gum, or large amounts of money.