Things NOT to bring

There are some things that should not be brought on camp (unless specifically instructed by a leader).

This is usually either because the items are either dangerous, are provided as part of the camp or are distracting children from participating fully in the camp activities.

At the leader’s discretion if these things are found on camp they may be taken away until the end of the camp.

The items in question include things like:

• Tents. Usually the group will provide these if needed, and it is better to avoid potential damage to private belongings. It is also easier for others to help put a tent up if they are familiar with its type.
• Toys, games (including sports equipment) and electronic devices. Any equipment necessary for the camp is usually supplied. Damage to private belongings is an issue, as well as possibly distracting people when they should be doing other things.
• Knives (other than table knives used for eating). These are a safety issue. The group will either supply them or individuals will be asked specifically to bring them.
• Matches and other flammable substances. Again a safety issue. The group will either supply them or individuals will be asked specifically to bring them. Modern synthetic materials as used in tents and sleeping gear is usually highly inflammable, and naked flames are very dangerous.
• Aerosol Cans should not be brought , partly because the gas propellant in most of them is a fire hazard and partly because you might knock it and discharge the contents inside your bag or tent. Please use roll-on mosquito repellent (or deodorant but most scouts don’t bother for short trips).
• Sweets, lollies and other food. Scout camps are generally fully catered including these sorts of things. To ensure proper meals are eaten, between meal snacks are usually not allowed unless for medical reasons. If there is a special occasion (such as a birthday) arrangements can be made with leaders for cakes or other things to be included as part of the camp menu.
• Personal comfort items such as hot water bottles (unless required on medical grounds). These items use resources that may be in limited supply on a camp (especially if everyone has one) and so they are normally discouraged unless absolutely necessary.

As a reminder, if you have a medical condition that either requires special consideration or some form of medication, your section leader should know about it and it should be listed on the camp permission form. Depending on the medication it may be appropriate for the leader to hold it for safe keeping, rather than trust that it won’t get damaged, lost or misused if left with person it is meant for. This should be discussed with the leader.

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Updated 5 months ago