Personal Gear List - Recommendations
Becoming a Scout at 1st Cranbourne, we camp many times throughout the year. It doesn't matter which season, we need to make sure the youth are equipped with the correct equipment. Otherwise camping with the incorrect gear can lead to be a miserable experience. With correct treatment and care, this equipment can last many years.
Stretchers
Having a good stretcher is important in Scouting. Especially for larger camps such as Kangaree, Cuboree and Jamboree. They have to be relatively lightweight, durable, and easy to assemble. With all stretchers we strongly recommend a foam bed mat. You can pick one up at Kmart for around $15.00 They stop cold air flow between the floor and the stretcher.
There is very limited space in the tents we use. There are multiple sizes of stretchers (Large, Extra Large, Jumbo, XXL) We ask that you only look for the LARGE - These are just under 2 meters in length and are perfect for all ages. - Please check the length of the stretcher before you purchase one!
There is very limited space in the tents we use. There are multiple sizes of stretchers (Large, Extra Large, Jumbo, XXL) We ask that you only look for the LARGE - These are just under 2 meters in length and are perfect for all ages. - Please check the length of the stretcher before you purchase one!
GOOD |
BETTER |
BEST |
AVOID |
Easy Out Stretchers.
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Low Rise Easy Fold
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Standard Easy Fold
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Slimline Compact Low
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Sleeping Bags
Sleeping Bags are really a personal preference as to whether you want a big sleeping bag or smaller compact one. Both have their pros and cons. What we are recommending here is comfort levels. Looking at a bag can be quite confusing when trying to workout the right level of comfort. As we mainly camp in the Spring, Autumn and Winter seasons, here are our recommendations:
GOOD |
BETTER |
BEST |
AVOID |
Spinifex Drifter 0°
$49 -$99 This is a great sleeping bag for the younger sections. The zip design keeps the warmth in a bit more than the others. For extra warmth, you could add a sleeping bag liner and a camp blanket.
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Blackwolf Rubicon II 0°
$89 - $129 Blackwolf have always been known for great camping and hiking products. This sleeping bag is good for all seasons. It has anti zip snag liners and a compression bag to reduce the overall size.
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Darche 900 -12° Cold Mountain Synthetic
$99 - $109 Without a doubt, the best sleeping bag on the market in this price range. Very strong and durable. The Darche is a step above the rest in comfort and warmth levels. There is a canvas version which is also great, but double the price and quite bulky.
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Coleman Mudgee 0°
$79 - $99 The Mudgee is a good sleeping bag, it has a nice cotton outer shell which can be a plus against the cold synthetic look of the others. However, these sleeping bags are an absolute menace to repack into their bags. The bag is also quite bulky. Not ideal for youth members.
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Additional Comfort & Warmth
In addition to the stretcher and sleeping bag, this extra gear can go along way in providing comfort, warmth and a positive camping experience.
BED MATS |
CAMP BLANKETS |
SLEEPING BAG
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BEANIE & GLOVES |
A must have on cold nights with a stretcher. This blocks the cold air that is underneath the stretcher providing insolation and a comfortable nights sleep.
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Great for cold nights! Another layer to cover the sleeping bag. Woolen are recommended over polyester / cotton. Also a great place to sew on those blanket badges!
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Depending on the quality you get, you can increase the comfort level of a sleeping bag by at minimum 3° with these inner liners.
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Sleeping with a beanie on retains the heat and keeps you nice and warm. Gloves are also a great option.
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