Franklin & Marshall College Franklin & Marshall College

    • First-Year Outdoor Orientation Trips
    • FOOT logo
    • 303940 2218492981946 1236270316 32355282 638838141 n

Sustainability & the Environment

FOOT

Equipment List

Gear Essentials

  • Sturdy hiking boots (medium weight with good ankle support ~ all-leather uppers or a supportive synthetic exterior that are appropriate for one week of backpacking on moderate terrain).

  • Backpack (Suitable for four to five days of backpacking.  Internal frame backpacks should be approximately 4000-6000 cubic inches (65 L minimum).  External frame packs should be near 3500 cubic inches (55 L) and come with accessory straps.)

  • OPTIONAL:  Water hydration pack (Camelbak or Hydrapak are two brands)



Clothing Essentials

  • 1-2 T-Shirts (should be synthetic/non cotton)

  • 1 Pair of shorts (synthetic ~ NOT heavy, cotton cargo shorts)

  • 2-4 Pairs of underwear, 1-2 sports bras (women)

  • 1 Synthetic long underwear top and bottom (medium weight, long sleeve ~ DO NOT bring cotton) 

  • 2 pairs of socks (synthetic or wool blend socks to help prevent blisters ~ DO NOT bring cotton) A pair of liner socks is also a good idea esp. if you are trying to break in a pair of boots.

  • 1 light to medium weight fleece jacket, either zip or pullover

  • 1 Water proof jacket (should be lightweight and preferably windproof and breathable)

  • 1 Pair of light to medium weight fleece pants

  • 1 Pair of sneakers for around camp

  • 1 Baseball cap or sun hat

  • OPTIONAL but RECOMMENDED: 2 Pairs of liner socks (for helping prevent blisters)


Camping Gear

  • Synthetic, medium weight, mummy sleeping Bag (20º to 30º temperature rating ~ it should be no more than 3.5 pounds and be small and compact)

  • Inflatable or closed cell foam Sleeping Pad no larger than 1 ½” x 30” x 72” when unrolled (Thermarest is a brand name)

  • 2 water bottles

  • Tupperware/Rubbermaid/plastic bowl (6” to 8”) w/ lid and cutlery

  • Small flashlight or headlamp

  • Straps for securing sleeping pad to pack (if necessary)

  • OPTIONAL: Waterproof backpack cover (heavy garbage bags can be used instead, which will be provided)


Personal Items

  • Personal toiletry items (toothbrush, toothpaste, brush/comb)

  • Sun block

  • Lip balm (with sun protection)

  • Blister prevention items (second skin blister pads or nu-skin work best)

  • Insect repellant

  • Whistle (for safety reasons)


Other

  • Sunglasses

  • OPTIONAL: Camera and film, disposable camera, or digital camera

  • OPTIONAL: Journal and pencil/pen

  • OPTIONAL: Book for reading (paperback recommended)


 

DO NOT bring bulky cotton items like sweatpants or denim material clothing such as jeans.  They are heavy, take a long time to dry when wet, and can be dangerous in cold weather.  Synthetic clothing is much more practical for this experience.  It wicks moisture away in hot conditions and keeps you cool.  In cold, wet conditions it will keep you dry and warm.