Event Logistics - Suggestions from a Boy Scout

[Justin Northwood]

With the event coming up relatively soon I figured I could share a bit of wisdom on what is good and not so good to bring to a campout like this based on my years as a Boy Scout

Things to Remember:
- Flashlight
- Gas Lantern (if you have one)
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen (if you need it)
- Tent & Sleeping Bag or Blankets
     - A foam pad or air mattress to go under your sleeping bag will help, if you have one.
     - If you don't have a tent, you could also get by sleeping in the reclined front seat of your car with a few blankets.
- Hand sanitizer
- Trash bags, since it's likely we'll be having to carry out any trash with us if there are no facilities at the site to dispose of it.  Bring a hook or rope so trash bags can be hung from the side of a tree where it will be off the ground and out of the reach of most animals.

Food:
- Bring items that are prepared easily.  Whether or not the food needs to be cooked or heated is up to you, but if you plan on cooking remember a small camp stove or charcoal.
- Dehydrated items are light and easy to carry and work great, otherwise canned goods are a good option, but remember a can opener if they aren't pull-top style!
- Generally anything perishable is not such a great idea, although you can get things like egg substitute or Parmalat shelf-stable milk which, once opened are subject to spoilage, but should be ok with a few ice packs for a couple of days.  Best to plan to use anything perishable by the end of Saturday.
- Bring things with at least somewhat of a nutritional value.  Ramen Noodles for example may seem like a good idea because they're light and easy to make, but they contain TONS of salt and very little nutritional value.  When in doubt, read the nutritional labels.
- Things like cereal bars and protein bars are a good bet for snacks.
- If you plan on bringing items that may have a propensity to attract animals, then bring a length of rope and a bag to hoist the food up in the air over a tree branch, or keep it in your car.  This will prevent animals from getting to it and also prevent animals from being attracted to the site to begin with.
- Try NOT to keep food in your tent for this same reason.
- Bring your own supply of water!
- Remember pots/pans/bowls...  Just a couple items should do the trick, and don't forget utensils!  Most camping/big-box stores have mess kits available that nest together and have at least a covered pot, frying pan, bowl and cup.  Utensil sets with a fork, knife and spoon that clip together are also readily available.
- Avoid disposable plates, bowls, cups and silverware if you can, since you're probably going to have to carry out your trash when we leave the site.

Clothes:
- Plan clothing to dress in layers...  t-shit, with long-sleeve shirt, with hooded sweatshirt, etc.  Layers can be added or removed as the temperature changes without having to pack a ton of clothes.

Does a Werewolf Shit in the Woods?:
- You bet!  There are no facilities available, so if you have to go #2 and don't feel like driving off-site to a restroom, finding a spot to do your thing in the woods is not all that bad.  Bring a small shovel and some preferably biodegradable camping toilet paper.  Dig a small hole to do your thing, then cover with dirt and leaves.  The special paper is made to break down relatively quickly and can be purchased at most camp stores or big box retail stores.

Medical:
- Remember any medications you have to take.
- If you have any severe allergies, like bee stings, etc, remember to bring an epi-pen.

If anyone else has anything to add, feel free!