Uniforms and Equipment

Uniforms

There are two different types of uniforms in Scouts BSA that you will need. One is a dress uniform you purchase from the Scout Shop in Seattle or on-line from the national BSA web site. We call this the “Class A” uniform.
This uniform is worn by all Scouts BSA members and consists of a tan uniform shirt, forest green shoulder loops, forest green pants and green belt. This is our most-worn uniform because we wear it to all of our meetings, community service projects and to any activity or event where girls want people to know they are members of Scouts BSA. This uniform is made of machine-washable material that works well indoors and outdoors for hiking and camping. As your scout earns merit badges you will want to purchase a merit badge sash as well. Information on patch placement can be found here.

The other is a casual Troop 5749 Activity T-shirt with our Troop logo which we will be making available later in the spring. We wear this when camping or hiking. We call this the “Class B” uniform.

Basic Camping and Hiking Equipment Every Girl Needs to Start Out

We do a lot of activities outside.  We have daytime activities like hiking and service projects and overnight stays in tents (and sometimes in cabins).  The troop has tents but you may eventually want to get your own. Scouts sleep together in 2 person or larger tents. You need to obtain some items – but do not have to spend a lot of money.  All of the things listed below can be expensive at fancy shops, but you can often get used things at low cost if you hunt on-line. Here is what we recommend every Girl have:

• A Sleeping Bag.  We recommend a “three season” sleeping bag that you can use in the spring, summer, and fall.  
• A Ground Pad.  This is a simple foam pad that you roll-out on the ground in a tent and put your sleeping bag on top of.  It keeps you warm from the cold ground, dry from dampness and comfortable because of the padding.
• A Daypack.  To start out, you only need a simple backpack that can contain the basic things you need to bring on hikes and short camp-outs.  
• A Pocket Knife (folding).  Every girl needs one of these when we are on campouts.  
• A Water Bottle.  Any lightweight water bottle will do although the “Nalgene” style tend to work the best.
• A Rain Suit.  You will end up on a hike or on a campout when it rains.  A bunch. A light jacket with matching pants that fit over the clothes you are wearing when it rains helps alot
• Hiking Boots.  These should be sturdy boots that have thick rubber soles for hiking in wet, rocky terrain.  They should support (come above) your ankle and fit well. This is one item that you do not want to get wrong.  
• 10 Essentials
• Generally speaking when your girl dresses for hikes or camping you should avoid cotton as it does not do well when wet.
• Obviously depending on the duration of the outing there will be more clothing and personal gear (such as toiletries) required.