To get the most out of scouting, young people need to own a certain amount of camping equipment and outdoor clothing. It shouldn’t be expensive, but correctly fitted and well chosen.
Buying Equipment
The local outdoor shops are Cotswold Outdoor (who give 15% discount when you bring your group scarf); Oswald Bailey and Trespass in Eastleigh; and Go Outdoors in Millbrook. Most large supermarkets have a limited range of camping equipment that’s worth looking at, and of course Argos have a good range with the returns policy if you change your mind.
For items that don’t need to be correctly sized and fitted, you will get more choice and lower prices by buying on the internet. Every outdoor chain has an internet presence, and Amazon seem to sell everything. But take into account the cost of delivery when comparing prices.
Sleeping
Sleeping bags
Sleeping mats
Eating
Plate, Bowl & Mug (enamel or plastic)
Knife, Fork and Spoon
Plastic drinks bottle
Clothing
Boots
Waterproofs
Other Equipment
Rucksacks
Torches
Name Labelling
Fabric pens
Permanent Markers