OVERNIGHT WINTER EQUIPMENT LIST

The following gear list was taken from International Mountain Climbing School's "Winter Mountaineering Gear List" Please use this list for packing for any of the Troop's winter camping trips (as opposed to the equipment/clothing lists in the Boy Scout Handbook) as this list better reflects current available technology. [NOTE: My comments are shown in square brackets.]

CLOTHING

• Long Underwear - First layer and the most basic item in the layering system. Bring a combination of different weights. Zip t-necks ventilate nicely. You want to be able to stack these layers if necessary.
• Fleece Pants - Full Side Zips make it much easier and faster to cool off or warm up. Lightweight pants work best if you plan on using them while hiking or climbing. This serves as the 2nd layer on your legs.
• Pile Bibs - Functional alternative for long cold days or extended outing such as Aconcagua, Denali or a Presidential Range traverse with very cold temperatures. This also serves as a 2nd layer for legs and top.
• Fleece Jacket - More comfortable and functional than a wool sweater. Weight will depend on other items in your layering system. Large pockets are valuable. 2nd layer.
• Storm Parka & Pants- These are your Gore-Tex (or equivalent) shells. Must fit comfortably over underwear and fleece layers. Underarm zips are recommended. Pants should have side zips. Know how to adjust hood. This is generally considered to be your 3rd layer.
• Expedition Parka - Valuable around camp, during a storm or on a summit day. Compression stuff sack reduces bulk and saves space in your pack.
• Fleece vest - Fits well over underwear top and under pile jacket. Optional but useful.
• Hats - watchcap, balaclava (thin & expedition weight recommended) and headband. Thin polypro balaclavas work surprisingly well.
• Gloves / Mittens - Liner gloves, ski gloves, and expedition style mitten with shell. An extra pair of insulated gloves is a good idea for a longer trip.
• Goggles & Sunglasses - It's nice to be able to see where you're going. Store in a case or small stuff sack to prevent scratching. Keep clean.
• Face Mask - Neoprene, for Mt. Washington ascents where temperatures and winds can make for a severe arctic environment

PACKS

• Expedition pack - 5,500 cu. in.+. Fill one up and try for fit. Internal frame packs work better for really heavy loads while frameless packs carry 45-55 lb. loads comfortably. You will need this size pack for winter mountaineering trips. [External frame packs are also acceptable].
• Alpine day pack - 2,500 - 3,500 cu. in. Used for day trips to Mt. Washington and ice climbing in Crawford Notch or Huntington ravine. see Troop 10 website for backpack info.

FOOTWEAR

• Double Plastic mountaineering boots - The goal is a comfortable, well-fitting boot to keep your feet warm and dry. Fit is also very important to reduce the occurrence of blisters or "boot bang".
• Single Leather mountaineering boots - for early season and late season climbing before the temperatures get too cold or for technically demanding mixed routes. Generally easier to walk in than double plastics but not as warm.
• Gaiters - Alpine-style or supergaiter. Historically, this is one of the most overlooked items by climber. Put some time into making sure you have gaiters that fit over your mountaineering boots properly. Check velcro, metal buckles and zippers.
• Liner Socks - Bring two pair for day trips and three for an overnight.
• Mountain socks - Heavy wool or wool/synthetic blend; two for day trips and three for an overnight
• VBL(Vapor Barrier Liners) socks - Optional. Keep socks and boots dry; work great when it's really cold; makes feet smell.

CAMPING GEAR

• Winter Sleeping Bag - Count on getting a bag rated from -10 to -30 degrees(F) for use in the White mountains in winter. A -40 degree (F) bag is required for Denali. see Troop 10 website for sleeping bag info.
• Compression Stuff Sack - To reduce bulk. Makes it easier to get the bag in your pack.
• Vapor Barrier Liner - Optional. Will help keep your bag cleaner and drier while adding warmth.
• Sleeping Pad - Therm-a-Rest pads are warmer and more comfortable. Ridge-Rest pads and other foam pads are good enough and much lighter.

ESSENTIAL PERSONAL GEAR

• Headlamp With Extra Battery - If you don't bring it-you will surely need it. [Alkaline batteries only!]
• Two Wide-Mouth Water Bottles & Water Bottle Parkas
• Swiss Army Knife
• Bandana
• Insulated Mug and Lexan Spoon [and bowl - a Cool-Whip bucket is fine]
• Lighter [matches in waterproof container are even better]
• Stuff Sacks
• Lip Balm
• Toiletries
• 1-2 Chemical Hand Warmers [optional]
• Sun Screen (SPF 15+)
• [Map & compass]
• [Small 1st-Aid Kit]
• [Watch]
• [Toilet paper in ziplock bag]

[Other Notes:

• Although IMCS discourages its use, wool is a suitable substitute for fleece.
• Go see the Troop 10 website for "Stuff you shouldn't pack".
• Make sure to leave room in your pack for: Specialized Equipment (crampons, ice axes, rope, helmet, harness, snowshoes, skiis, etc.) Community Gear (stove, tent, food, etc.)