This packing list is only meant to guide you. These are suggestions/guidelines only. In general, bring a variety of clothing layers that allow you to accommodate unpredictable and changing weather and activity levels. Clothes will likely get dirty.
Head & Hands
- 1 Pair Lightweight Gloves. In case of cool weather.
- 1 Warm Beanie. Used on colder days and evenings.
- 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.
Upper Body
- 1 Light or Medium Weight Long Underwear Top.
- 1 Long Sleeve Sun Shirt. Loose, lightweight, and light-colored for sun protection. Instructors prefer old button down men's dress shirts.
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts. Cotton or quick-drying fabrics are both absolutely fine.
- 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 and nylon/spandex cuffs, collar, and hem.
- 1 Heavy Fleece or Synthetic Puffy Jacket. The fleece can usually be found at a thrift store or Salvation Army. Must fit over all other layers.
- 1 Warm Coat. Anything that will keep you warm.
- 1 Wind Jacket. Nothing fancy, basically an old-fashioned windbreaker. This can usually be found at a thrift store. Must fit over all other layers.
- 2 Sports Bras. Should be appropriate for athletic activity. Many women will use this as a swimsuit top with Quick Dry shorts. You do not need to bring a swimsuit if you plan on using this combination.
Lower Body
- 1 Light or Medium Weight Long Underwear Bottoms.
- 3 Pants. Jeans or work pants. Durable.
- Underwear - Bring what you’d like.
- 1 Swimsuit. There may be opportunities to sauna. Ladies, you may choose to bring a swimsuit or use a pair of shorts and a sports bra for swimwear. No bikinis.
Feet
- Socks
- 1 Pair Durable, Comfortable Shoes. Whatever is comfortable to wear during the day. Must be close-toed.
- 1 Extra Pair of Shoes. It's nice to have a back-up in case your first pair get wet.
- 1 Pair Flip Flops or Sandals. Some folks like to wear flip flops in the shower house.
Personal Gear
- Bedding, sleeping bag, pillow. Our bunk style accommodations are not heated. Come prepared with warm sleeping gear.
- Padded Camp Chair. A stadium pad or Crazy Creek are nice to have while sitting for lectures or conducting simulations outside.
- 1 Pair Sunglasses w/ Keeper Strap and Hard Case. Essential for protecting your eyes in a highly reflective environment.
- 1 Waterbottle. A 32 oz. wide mouth Nalgene-style bottle with a plain lid is recommended.
- 1 Small Headlamp with Extra Batteries. This is a hands free flashlight. It is either an LED or halogen headlamp that uses a minimum of three volts (two or more AA- or AAA-batteries). Halogen bulbs are bright but consume more battery power. LED lamps are bright and consume very little battery power. Bring one extra set of alkaline batteries.
Toiletries & Other Personal Items
- 1 Sunscreen. Waterproof, SPF 30 or greater. 8-oz. bottle. No aerosol.
- 1 Lip Balm. 30+ SPF or greater.
- 1 Toiletries Kit. Toothbrush, small toothpaste, comb or brush. Women: bring plenty of feminine supplies. Change in activities can cause irregular periods.
- 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 back-up glasses either way.
- 1 Towel and Shower Supplies. Bring whatever shower supplies you normally use, ideally in travel sizes, and a towel (any cotton towel).
Travel
- Money. Bring a little money if you think you’d like to purchase a sweatshirt, t-shirt, map, or cap from the Voyageur Outward Bound School store after your course. The school store accepts cash or check only, no credit or debit cards.
- Cell Phone and Charger. It’s a good idea to travel with a cell phone in case of travel delays.