What to bring into the BWCAW...
The Essentials:
- Map and Compass
- Canoe and paddles
- Waterproof matches and fire starter
- Full canteen or water bottle
- Knife
- Flashlight and extra batteries and bulbs
- Sun protection (glasses, hat, sunscreen)
- First aid kit
- Insect protection (repellent and/or head net)
- Spare prescription eyeglasses and medications
- Rain gear
- Bear rope (2 50ft. sections)
Shelter:
- Tent (seam-sealed, with fly, stakes and poles)
- Tarp/ground cloth
- Sponge (to keep tent clean)
- Tube of seam sealer
- Spare stakes
- Extra tie-down cord (50ft.)
- Emergency repair kit
Sleeping:
- Sleeping bag (proper temperature rating)
- Sleeping pad (for insulation, cushioning)
- Ground sheet (optional)
- Sleeping bag liner (VBL for extreme cold)
- Pillow (optional)
Pack:
(One or more as appropriate)
- External frame (proper fit critical)
- Internal frame (proper fir critical)
- Rucksack
- Daypack
- Fanny pack
- Belt pouch
- Stuff sacks (for organizing pack)
- Extra lash straps
Kitchen:
- Matches (waterproof)
- Stove and fuel
- Cook kit and utensil
- Cup/Bowl/Plate
- Sealed containers (for food, cooking oil, spices, coffee/tea,etc.)
- Plastic bags (small and large)
- Aluminum foil
- Biodegradable soap, dish towel
- Water purification tablets or filter
- 2-5 gallon water carrier
- Food (bring plenty!!)
- Large stuff sack (to hang food in tree at night to protect
from animals)
- Insulated food container
- Lantern
Clothing:
- Boots (proper fit and well broken in!!)
- Socks (wool preferable) and sock liner (polypro or silk)
- Lightweight underwear
- Shorts, T-shirts
- Long sleeve shirt & pants
- Bathing suit
- Insulation Layers (wool or synthetic fleece to suit season)
- Rain/wind gear (jackets and pants or poncho-waterproof/breathable)
- Hat & lightweight gloves
- Camp shoes (sneakers)
Note: The above list does not suggest that everything be packed;
rather, pack accordingly to your own needs.
Keep this motto in mind -- you packed it IN, you pack it OUT.
BWCAW home page.