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 and 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.
Upper Body
- 1 Medium-Weight Long Underwear Top.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 old button down men's dress shirts. It’s likely that you won’t want to wear this shirt again after you course because of the wear and tear it will undergo, so don’t spend too much on it.
- Short Sleeve Shirts. 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 and nylon/spandex cuffs, collar, and hem. Or it can be a thick vest.
- 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 Wind Jacket. Nothing fancy, basically an old-fashioned windbreaker. This can usually be found at a thrift store. Must fit over all other layers.
- Sports Bras.
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. Mid-weight fleece pants can be very helpful if it gets colder during your course.
- 3 Pair Pants and/or Shorts. Jeans or work pants are good. You want them to be durable.
- Underwear.
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
- 1 Belt. Any belt will work. Non-leather recommended.
- 1 Pair Sunglasses w/ Keeper Strap and Hard Case. Essential for protecting your eyes in a highly reflective environment. Keeper strap is important so they don’t fall into the water and sink.
- 1 Waterproof Watch. Does not need to be expensive, but should be waterproof and durable. Digital recommended.
- 1 Water Bottle.
- 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.
- Tent and Other Camping Gear. If you are planning to camp on site at Outward Bound, be sure to bring all of the required gear you will need including a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and pillow.
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.
- 1 Towel and Shower Supplies. Bring whatever shower supplies you normally use, and a towel (any cotton towel).
- Prescription Medications. If you use prescription medications, including inhalers and EPI pens, please bring enough for the entire course. If possible, bring a backup set.
- 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.
Travel
- Money. Think about bringing $20 for meals during your travel 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.