Equipment List
The following is a list of clothing and equipment that all students should have. Some of the items on the list are optional as indicated, but for safety and comfort reasons all other items are required. You will be surprised how much of this equipment you already own. You might be able to borrow some items from friends or family. Many of the equipment items you can rent or buy from outdoor stores such as Hudson Trail Outfitters in Fairfax (703) 591-2950, REI in Fairfax (571) 522-6568, or the REI in Bailey’s Crossroads (703) 379-9400.
Travel Gear:
- Sleeping bag and stuff sack - your bag should be able to fit into a stuff sack (a nylon bag that closes tightly). Bags without stuff sacks tend to get loose thus causing packing challenges and headaches
- Sleeping pad - sleeping pads provide insulation from the ground and padding for more comfortable sleeping. Lightweight closed cell foam pads are the best. Egg crate type sleeping pads are not acceptable. If they get wet, they are very heavy and provide no insulation.
- Pillow (optional)
- Duffle bag or backpack (due to limited space, you will only be permitted one bag and a day pack as luggage)
- Day Pack
Clothing:
- Hiking boots or sneakers
- Water shoes for kayaking and whitewater rafting (old sneakers or river shoes (i.e. Tevas) are the best. Flip flops are not suitable for active water sports.
- T-shirts
- Shorts
- Socks and underwear
- Light jacket or sweater (it can get cool in the evenings)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Pair of long pants
- Sun hat/baseball cap
- Swimsuit
Toiletries:
- Toothpaste/brush
- Soap and shampoo
- Bath towel and wash cloth
- Towel for swimming
- Comb/brush
- Prescription medications if needed
- Feminine products if needed
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent (optional)
- Glasses or contacts with solution in a small bottle – if needed
- Back up pair of glasses or contacts – if needed
Camping Equipment and Miscellaneous:
- Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries (Very important)
- Water bottle with a secure lid
- Bowl with lid (Tupperware works well)
- Spoon
- Camera and film (optional)
- Sunglasses
- Sunglass holder (i.e. croakies)
- Book, paper, pen
- Lip balm
- Inexpensive watch (optional)