Stretcher
We recommend this type of stretcher (or folding camp bed).
You can buy them all the major outdoor equipment sellers or on TradeMe. They seem to be substantially cheaper on TradeMe and seem to still be perfectly good. This type is really easy to put up and down and their gear can be stored underneath during the day so it doesn’t get wet or trampled. Don’t get one of the smaller stretchers with ‘W’ legs – they are too hard for a Kea or Cub to put up, and their gear won’t fit underneath,
Foam Bed Roll
This goes on top of the stretcher and underneath their sleeping bag to help keep them warm at night. It can also be used on overnight hikes (Scouts only)
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping bags are rated with a comfort level, which is the temperature at which they are still comfortable. Our Keas and Cubs won’t be camping in winter, so a comfort level of 0C (or 3 Season) should be fine. Our Scouts may be camping in winter, so a sleeping bag that goes down to -5C (or 4 season) would be recommended.
We’d recommend buying a cheap sleeping bag when they are a Kea, and plan on replacing it as they move into Scouts.
Plate and cutlery
The plate, bowl and cutlery should be metal (stainless steel or enamel) or plastic and reasonably robust.
These are held in a ditty bag which is a drawstring bag. You can use a swimming bag, or buy a mesh bag from a place like Kathmandu. It’s important that it’s a breathable material (not a plastic bag) so things dry out.
Head Torch
A decent LED torch, that takes AA or AAA batteries is a must. It’s best to have a head torch, as it much more convenient for going to the toilets or brushing their teeth in the dark.
Roll-on Sunscreen and Insect Repellant
We really prefer roll-on (or lotion) repellants and sunscreens. We’ve found our youth tend to spray each other for fun if they have spray-ons, and the spray is bad for our tents and camping equipment.
60 litre Plastic Gear Box
Everything they need for a weekend camp, except their stretcher and bedroll, should fit in a box like this. That’s all their clothing, sleeping bag, raincoat, toiletries et. If it doesn’t fit, they have too much stuff. It’s easier than a pack, suitcase or bag for them to find their things. It also keeps everything clean and dry, especially if the ground is damp. You can buy these for about $12.
Name Everything!
Everything needs a name on it. Even their cutlery. Don’t forget their stretcher, stretcher bag, sleeping bag, sleeping bag cover etc.