Wet And West Virginia Trip Packing List printable pdf download

Wet and West Virginia Trip Packing List 2016

SLEEPING BAG

If you don’t own one, borrowing one should be fine. If you decide to buy a new one, here are some

considerations. For summer use we recommend a bag rated 35-40 degrees. If you use it in early or late

fall and spring, aim for a 20-degree bag. Down stuffing is nice but expensive and really unnecessary

for summer camping. Plus, you have to carefully upkeep it for it to remain nice. So look for bags with

artificial fibers and a nylon shell. These stay fluffier, dry much faster, can keep you warm even if wet,

and are lightweight. A good bag should not be folded and rolled but rather smushed into a small nylon

“stuff sack” and then tied tightly closed. Since we are car camping, you could bring a pillow if you wish.

SLEEPING PAD

This is the thing you lay under your sleeping bag to keep warm, dry, and prevent little stones from

digging into your back all night long. Various inflatables such as Therm-A-Rest are popular with

serious campers are very comfortable and save a lot of room when they roll up but the large foam-

types are fine too and much, much cheaper. A word of caution- you want closed cell foam only (available

at most outdoor and camping stores, precut or in large rolls by the foot). Open cell foam is like a

sponge- it absorbs water which is very bad!

RAFTING & STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING GEAR

For shoes, closed toed river sandals such as Keens work best as they allow your toes to dry quicker

than regular old shoes. But make sure they have Velcro or buckle straps, not slip-ons or flip flops. Old

sneakers you don’t mind getting wet are ok too. Bring a bathing suit and easy-dry clothing you might

like to wear over the top. We will provide you with wetsuits if needed. On the water all trekkers will be

required to wear approved life jackets. We will provide these.

CAVING GEAR

For this activity you need a full set of clothes and a pair of old sneakers that can get totally covered in

dirt and not be needed for the rest of the week. There are showers available after the activity but

there is no way to launder clothes on the trip. Shirts should be long sleeved, pants should be hardy

and shoes need a good grip.

HIKING & CLIMBING GEAR

Again, comfortable clothing is key. As for boots, if you have a nice pair of comfortable, already broken

in hiking boots or shoes bring them along. Otherwise, sneakers will be fine for the day. Wool or

synthetic wool blend socks are best. Just make sure they are for hiking or running, not winter sports

or hunting. Your feet will be moving and active, not sitting around trying to stay warm. If you never

plan on using these socks again, cotton will get you through the day. Otherwise, a good pair of socks

is a nice treat for your feet.

SOME THINGS NOT TO PACK



Please do not bring matches, knives, hatchets, etc.- these will be carried by leaders.



Please do not bring any jewelry, except maybe a cheap watch.

Wet And West Virginia Trip Packing List