Because our courses are characterized by unpredictable weather, obtaining the proper clothing is crucial. Please bring all the items as described on the "Required Clothing and Gear" list below. We have shared links for some items to show you examples. You also find required clothing & gear items at camping, outdoor/ farm stores, Army/Navy surplus, and thrift stores. Clothing and gear can be expensive—shop around before you buy and keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Start at the thrift store.
2. Buy last year’s model.
3. Don’t worry about colors or style.

Your choices should be governed by whether or not the piece of clothing or gear will meet our requirements, not if it is the best looking or newest! Consider leaving the tags on any new items you have purchased and saving the receipts; in the event that an item is not needed for your expedition or you do not use it, you should be able to return it when you get back home. 

NOTE: When you arrive for course start, you will not have an opportunity to purchase forgotten items.  

If you are looking to shop online, many students use the following websites to find their clothing and gear:

• Recreational Equipment Incorporated
• Eastern Mountain Sports
• Sierra Trading Post
• Campmor

On the first night of the course, your instructors will issue you the equipment provided by Outward Bound and assess all of the clothing/equipment you’ve brought in order to ensure that it meets the requirements of the expedition. You’ll repack exactly what you need into packs provided by Outward Bound. Everything you don’t need during the expedition, including your shower supplies, clean clothes for the trip home, valuables, and electronics will stay in your luggage and be stored in a secure location for the duration of the course. These items will be returned to you at the end of the trip. 

Outward Bound will provide you with these items:

• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat
• Backpack
• Rain gear
• All group camping, cooking, and traveling equipment

You only need to bring what’s on the Required Clothing and Gear list, mainly your personal clothing, toiletries, footwear, and a few additional items. We strongly discourage the use of personal camping equipment on Voyageur Outward Bound School courses because of the heavy wear and tear. We feel confident that the equipment we provide will best serve your needs on the expedition; it will keep you safe, warm and dry. If you have questions about using a piece of personal equipment normally provided by Outward Bound, please contact your course advisor to discuss. If you do decide to bring a piece of personal equipment, your instructors reserve the right to inspect it and ensure that it will adequately serve your needs during the expedition. If they do not think it will work, you can leave it with your luggage at the basecamp during the expedition.

Our packing list is based on layering principles; dressing in several light layers rather than one heavy layer allows you more flexibility as the weather and your exertion levels change. When shopping or packing, it is a good idea to try on all of your layers at once to ensure that they fit over one another. Read the information below to get a better idea of what we’re talking about.

1. Inner Layer: This is usually called the wicking layer (long underwear, liner socks, and sometimes gloves) – Moisture is the enemy of warmth. Sweat from physical activity like backpacking, paddling, or climbing is your body’s attempt to cool itself off. Synthetic long underwear pulls moisture away from your body, so your sweat won’t cool you down too much and make you cold. This layer is worn next to your skin. Cotton items retain moisture and exaggerate sweat’s cooling effect, which is why we’ll sometimes ask you to avoid using cotton clothing.
2. Middle Layer: This is usually called the insulation layer (fleece tops, wool socks, and sometimes fleece pants) – This layer should be thick and fluffy like a fleece or wool sweater that will trap and store the heat your body is producing. This layer is worn over the top of the base layer. Your packing list might require more than one “insulating layer” like a medium weight fleece and a heavier wool sweater. You can put on several "insulating layer" pieces at a time, so be sure to try them on over the top of your inner layer and over the top of each other to ensure you still have mobility and things aren't too tight.
3. Outer Layer: This is usually called the wind/shell layer (jackets, pants, and rain gear) – Adding an outer windproof layer prevents the wind from stealing your store of built-up heat. The third layer is worn on top of the base and insulation layers. This layer will take the most wear and tear and look the most weather-beaten by the end of the trip.  For dogsledding courses, we provide all outer layers for you.  For all other courses, rain gear is provided.

Head

• 1 Warm Beanie. Used on colder days and evenings.  No cotton.
• 1 Sun Hat. At a minimum, it should shade your face like a baseball cap.  Having a brim all the way around is even better. Made out of something that can get folded up and packed.
• 1 Buff. Versatile lightweight neck gaiter. Buff Example

Upper Body

• 1 Light or Medium Weight Long Underwear Top. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
• 1 Long Sleeve Sun Shirt. Loose, lightweight, and light-colored for sun and bug protection. Options include sun hoodies or an old button-down men's dress shirt. Many instructors use "sun hoodies" that offer protection for the neck and ears. Example. Will get dirty.
• 2 Short Sleeve Shirts. Cotton or quick-drying fabrics are both absolutely fine.  Again, these shirts will experience a lot of wear and tear.
• 1 Heavy Fleece or Synthetic Puffy Jacket. Must have good breathability and dry quickly when wet.  The fleece can usually be found at a thrift store or Salvation Army.  Must fit over all other layers.
• 1 Wind Jacket. Nothing fancy, basically an old-fashioned windbreaker.  This can usually be found at a thrift store.  Must fit over all other layers. Can serve as bug & sun protection. If you purchase the Bug Shirt found on the optional list, you won't also need this. 
• 2 Sports Bras. Should be appropriate for athletic activity. Many women will use this as a swimsuit top with Quick Dry shorts.  You do not need to bring a swimsuit if you plan on using this combination.

 Lower Body

• 1 Light or Medium Weight Long Underwear Bottoms. This can be fitted (not restrictive) because it will be the base layer next to your skin.
• 1 Quick Dry Pants. Lightweight nylon fabric wicks moisture, dries quickly, and is easy to pack. Should be loose fitting to aid in movement and protect against bug bites through the pants (no yoga-style or tight pants). If durable, one pair will last the trip. One pair can be zip-off pants, in which case you do not need Quick Dry Shorts. No cotton.
• 1 Athletic Pants - lightweight loose fitting pants to wear around the campsite at night and sleep in. No cotton sweatpants or leggings
• 1 Quick Dry Shorts - lightweight nylon style shorts to wear around camp or for swimming or sleeping in. 
• 3 Pairs Underwear - Quick Drying or Cotton. Quick drying underwear is usually a blend of Nylon and Spandex that breathes well, wicks moisture, and dries quickly. Quick Drying is recommended, but cotton is okay as well.  Women should bring at least a couple cotton pairs.
• 1 Swimsuit. You may choose to bring a swimsuit or use a pair of shorts and a sports bra (if needed) for swimwear.  No bikinis or speedos.

 Feet

• 3 Pair Heavyweight Hiking Socks. These socks are thicker than the medium weight and most likely will have expedition or mountaineering in the name.
• 1 Pair Canoeing/Hiking Boots. Sturdy, lightweight hiking boots with ankle support.  Must allow water to shed out of them via mesh material.  No full-leather boots.  Try to avoid Gore-Tex.  See “Footwear”  for more information.
• 1 Pair Camp Shoes. Lightweight, sturdy running shoes. Not fashion or skateboarding type sneakers.  An old pair of running shoes is just fine.  See “Footwear” for more details.

 Personal Gear

• 2 Bandanas. These will be helpful in multiple different ways including for hygiene purposes. (Some people may find a Kula Cloth helpful for hygiene purposes.)
• 1 Pair Sunglasses w/ Keeper Strap and Hard Case. Essential for protecting your eyes in a highly reflective environment.  Keeper strap is important so they don’t fall into the water and sink.
• 1 Waterproof Watch. Does not need to be expensive, but should be waterproof and durable. Digital recommended.
• 1 Water Bottle. Must be a 32 oz. wide mouth Nalgene-style bottle with a plain lid.
• 1 Small Headlamp with Extra Batteries.  This is a hands-free flashlight. It is either an LED or halogen headlamp that uses a minimum of three volts (two or more AA- or AAA-batteries).  Halogen bulbs are bright but consume more battery power.  LED lamps are bright and consume very little battery power.  Bring one extra set of alkaline batteries per week of course.

 Toiletries & Other Personal Items

• 1 Sunscreen. Waterproof, SPF 30 or greater. 8-oz. bottle. No aerosol.
• 1 Lip Balm. 30+ SPF or greater.
• 2 Hand Sanitizer. Small travel-sized bottles.  
• 1 Insect Repellent. 30% DEET or other effective repellent. No aerosol.
• 1 Toiletries Kit. Toothbrush, small toothpaste, comb or brush. Women: Bring plenty of feminine supplies. Change in activities can cause irregular periods.
• 2 Sets Prescription Medications. If you use prescription medications, including inhalers, please bring enough for the entire course.  If possible, bring a backup set.  If you use an inhaler or have a prescription epi-pen, you must bring two.  If you use an albuterol Rescue inhaler please bring a spacer. If you do not currently have one please get one prescribed by your doctor to bring along on the trip. Spacers allow the medicine to get into your lungs faster and play a key role in managing asthma in the backcountry. Clearly label everything with medication names, dosages, and when you take them.  Instructors administer medications for students 21 and younger and will ask for them upon your arrival so pack medications in an accessible place in your carry-on.  Outward Bound should be aware of any medications you are bringing, if not, please contact your course advisor immediately.
• 2 Pair Glasses or Contacts, if needed.  Both glasses and contacts are acceptable.  Stick with whatever you normally use.  Bring plenty of supplies and at least one set of backup glasses either way.  Because sterile lens care is more difficult on trail, long-term use contacts are not encouraged. Daily disposable contacts are a good option that will help you avoid dirt and dust build-up that might cause damage to your eyes.
• 1 Medical Insurance Card. Please bring your insurance card, or a copy of the front and back of the card, if you are covered under any medical insurance.  The actual card is preferred.
• 1 Towel and Shower Supplies. You’ll have a chance to sauna and shower after your expedition.  Bring whatever shower supplies you normally use, ideally in travel sizes, and a towel (any cotton towel).  Pack these items in their own kit so it’s easy to find when you return to basecamp.  These items will not go on the expedition with you.
• 2 Sets Clean Clothes. After you return to basecamp and shower you’ll want clean clothes.  You’ll wear these at the end of your course and traveling home.  Don’t forget to include socks and underwear.  

 Travel

• Money.  Think about bringing $15-$20 for meals on your arrival and departure days.  Also, bring a little money if you’d like to purchase a sweatshirt, t-shirt, map, or cap from the Voyageur Outward Bound School store after your course.  The school store accepts cash or check only, no credit or debit cards.
• Travel Information. Carry a copy of the Outward Bound Travel Information for your course (on the tab next to this one) with the Outward Bound phone number in case of travel delays. See this information for directions on what to wear to the start of your course.
• Cell Phone and Charger.  It’s a good idea to travel with a cell phone in case of travel delays.  However, please note that upon arrival you will be asked to turn off and store your phone in your luggage, which will be locked in a secure area while you are on course.  

Participants will not be permitted to begin their course without their required medications OR with new medications not approved by your Course Advisor.  

All medications (prescription, non-prescription and over-the-counter) must:  

• Be listed in the applicant’s medical information 
• Be approved by your Course Advisor prior to course
• Accompany the participant on course
• Be in the original medication container with the prescription label intact

Your medication container should not include other medications, vitamins or supplements. If possible, bring a back-up supply.  

Do not bring non-prescription medications such as aspirin, Advil, etc., unless they are listed in your medical information. We have a medical kit that contains these medications. 

Medication updates that occur after applicants are cleared to participate could affect their status on course. Please update your Course Advisor with any medication changes such as: 

• Starting a new medication
• Stopping an existing medication
• Dosage change of an existing medication 

For participants on youth courses, our instructors carry all prescription medications, with the exception of birth control and emergency medications such as EpiPens or rescue asthma inhalers. 

For participants on adult (age 18+) courses, we encourage participants to store their medication(s) container(s) in a zip-lock bag for protection. Pill sorters are not recommended.  

You must notify Outward Bound should any medical, psychological, behavioral, or legal situations occur after the application and medical review process have been completed. Certain situations may affect the applicant’s course status. 

Increased physical activity during Outward Bound may cause a change in your menstrual cycle. Prepare your menstruation kit using a zip lock bag even if you don’t expect your cycle during course.

Items to include:

• Menstruation products such as tampons, pads, panty liners, and menstrual cups. Bring more than you would typically use. Absorption underwear is not recommended. For a water-based course, we recommend avoiding pads for day-use if possible. 
• 1 small travel pack of septic-friendly disposable wipes or bandana. Our instructors will teach appropriate backcountry techniques for basic cleanliness. 
• 1 small travel-size bottle of hand sanitizer 
• 1 to 2 extra pairs of underwear 

We practice Leave No Trace camping techniques. Therefore, we pack out what we pack in. Instructors will distribute small opaque zip lock bags and small stuff sack for your individual storage of used items.You will dispose of any used items either during re-supplies (approximately every three to seven days) or at course end.  

Your instructors are experienced in addressing menstruation care questions or concerns while on course. Don’t hesitate to ask them questions. 

PERSONAL HYGIENE:

Maintaining personal hygiene in the wilderness is important and is taught on every course. You will be outside while on course and won't have access to a shower or bath. You will be able to do basic cleanup every day: brush your teeth, wash your face, and comb your hair. At the end of your course, you will be able to do a more thorough cleanup.  

PRESCRIPTION EYEWEAR: GLASSES & CONTACTS

Please bring your prescription eyewear and any applicable backup options. For glasses, a glasses leash is helpful to prevent loss during an activity. 

For participants who wear contact lenses, you must bring your prescription glasses as backup. Be sure to bring enough contact lens solution so you can be diligent in your contact lens routine while out on expedition. 

Please be aware that the use of contact lenses in the backcountry does carry more risk than when at home. A great level of diligence and hygiene is required to ensure you do not damage your eyes. 

SKIN CARE 

You will be outside during your course. To maintain your health and comfort, the best protection from biting insects, skin irritation, and sunburn is a physical barrier of clothing. Bring the required clothing and gear listed – it's essential to your comfort and safety.  

Living outside and exposing your skin to the elements can lead to dry skin. If you have a cream you use to care for dry skin or other related skin-health, consider bringing any creams or prescription creams you've found useful. Be sure to ask your course advisor any questions you might have.

It is your responsibility to follow your instructor’s directions and monitor how your skin reacts to the changing environment. Let them know if you encounter skin concerns before they present a barrier to your participation.  

As you pack your toiletries, if you're traveling by air to your course, please review the TSA Carry-on Requirements for liquids.

HAIR CARE

Here are a few tips caring for long, kinky, or curly hair while on course:   

• Bring a comb, brush, or pick 
• Protect your hair by covering it with a hair bonnet, silk scarf, headwrap, durag, loc tube, bandana, etc.
• Use a bandana, head wrap, hair scrunchies, etc., to keep hair out of your face
• Bring 3oz hair oil

Before course, consider putting your hair in a protective style, allowing enough time for your head to adjust prior to the start of your Outward Bound course. Be sure that your protective style will fit underneath a helmet. Suggested protective styles include:  

• Box Braids 
• French Braids 
• Feed-in Braids 
• Cornrows
• Faux Locs 
• Two Strand Twists
• Plaits 
• Flat Twists 

Canoeing/Hiking Boots

Voyageur Outward Bound courses are rugged and the way you will travel is very unique. Your boots will be one of the most important pieces of equipment that you bring. They will need to be comfortable and perform well in a variety of different environmental settings. Follow the guidelines below to ensure that your boots fit well and meet the course requirements.

BOOT SPECIFICATIONS

Boots must have strong ankle support, a protective sole and the ability to drain water from the inside out. Your instructors will teach you how to take good care of your feet, but everything starts with having the right boots. It is important to allow airflow to your feet. For this reason, avoid all-leather and all-Gore-Tex boots, which trap moisture inside your boot. Some leather and Gore-Tex are OK, and probably unavoidable, but try to minimize them as much as you can. Boots should have as much water-shedding, breathable, mesh material as possible.

If you are participating on a multi-element course with a backpacking component, your boots may or may not dry out from day to day, depending on the weather conditions you encounter.

Here is a list of boots that work well on Voyageur Outward Bound School canoeing and backpacking courses. If you have questions about a boot that’s not listed here, consider the essential requirements – your boots must be sturdy with a strong, protective sole, have full ankle protection (high-top), and allow water to shed/feet to breathe. If you still have questions about a boot not listed here, send an email to your course advisor for their input; include a link so they can view the boot online.

BOOT FITTING

Start by trying on at least two or three different boot options. Put the first choice on one foot and the second choice on the other. Make sure that you’re wearing the same type of wool socks that you plan to wear during the expedition (refer to the packing list for more detail) and fully lace up the boots. Start by standing on a downward slanting slope and try to jam your toes towards the front of the boot. Next, take a walk around the store.

• Your toes should never hit the front of your boot.
• Your boots should be comfortable with plenty of room to wiggle your toes.
• Your heel might slip as much as 1/8” to 1/4” in the back. Any more than 1/4” is too much.
• You shouldn’t feel any obvious pressure points.
• If you don’t feel absolutely confident that your boots fit correctly, purchase them and wear them around your house for a few hours (not outside). Bring them back and look for different boots if you still have concerns.

Boots undergo extensive wear and tear during the course and may not be of much use after the course. For this reason, consider a less expensive boot.

BOOT CARE

Break in your boots before the course begins! Wear them around town, school and at home as much as possible (several weeks). This simple activity cannot be over-emphasized and is one of the easiest and most important steps in preparing for a successful and comfortable wilderness adventure. 

Camp Shoes

Your Camp Shoes are worn each evening and morning at your campsite. They get packed away in a safe spot while you travel so they remain dry. Camp shoes should be lightweight, sturdy running shoes, not sandals. Full coverage shoes are required while you’re cooking and working around the campfire to protect your feet from hot embers and boiling cooking-water.

Some Voyageur Outward Bound School courses finish with a Challenge Event that often involves a running component, and some groups do morning runs or day hikes. You can use your camp shoes for these events. For this reason, you’ll need sturdy running shoes NOT fashion or skateboarding type sneakers.

None of these items are required and you will be fine without them.  Please only buy them if you plan to use them again after your course or you think they will be of great assistance to you during the course.  You may be asked to leave these items behind depending on pack-size and weight restrictions.

• 1 Bug Shirt. While this item is optional, we HIGHLY recommend it for any courses between June and August.  Visit www.bugshirt.com to see exactly what we recommend. Do not bring the all mesh variety because they get ripped.
• Permethrin - Must treat at least 2-3 days before course-start. Again, this is optional, but the Voyageur Outward Bound School HIGHLY recommends that you treat your clothing* with Permethrin, which repels ticks and mosquitoes. Lyme Disease continues to spread and cases have recently been reported in northern Minnesota.  Your Instructors will teach you how to minimize your risk of tick-bites.  Treating your clothing with Permethrin will further lessen your risk. *DO NOT treat base layers (long underwear tops and bottoms for example), or any item that will cover your face (buffs, masks, etc).
• 1 Belt.  Non-leather recommended. For use with quick-dry trail pants with belt loops/ zipper/ snaps; they will loosen from not being regularly washed. A belt will help keep them up. 
• Ear Plugs. If you are a light sleeper, earplugs can be very helpful. 
• 1 Small Fanny Pack.  Can be very handy for carrying and organizing small items.
• Camera.  Waterproof disposables (bring a few) are great and you don’t have to worry about protecting them from the elements.  A small regular camera would also work well, but you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect it.  Ziploc bags work, or consider getting a waterproof case. For digital cameras, we ask that the memory card(s) be blank; please back up your photos and erase your memory cards prior to arriving for course. 
• 1 Small Journal.  Small and sturdy.  Please bring pens and put in a Ziplock bag.
• 1 Pair Teva/Chaco-Style Sandals. Must have an ankle strap.  No leather.
• One-gallon Freezer Ziploc bags: used to waterproof smaller personal items such as camera, journal, and headlamp.

i-pods, MP3 players, computers, i-pads, and GPS devices?
Cell phones, tablets, GPS devices and all other electronic devices (exception-digital cameras) are not permitted on course. Electronic devices can be distracting and disruptive to the wilderness experience. Stepping away from these devices encourages participants to focus on their experience and their crewmates.

You are, however, more than welcome to travel to and from your course with whatever technology you choose. When you arrive, we’ll have you turn off all electronic devices and leave them in your luggage.  Your luggage will then be locked in a secure area during your course. At the end of your course, you’ll get everything back. Additionally, please do not bring any emergency response technology. Your instructors will carry emergency communication devices.

cameras?
Cameras are welcomed at Voyageur Outward Bound School. We recommended waterproof disposable cameras. If you elect to bring a non-disposable camera, we advise that you store it in a small “dry bag” or plastic zip-lock bag. Our courses are rigorous and there is a risk of losing or damaging your camera.

For digital cameras, we ask that the memory card(s) be blank; please back up your photos and erase your memory cards prior to arriving for course. Cell phone cameras, tablets, and any other Wi-Fi enabled electronic devices with built-in cameras are not permitted on the course.

my cell phone and use it as a camera?
No, if you’d like to take pictures, please bring a camera that does not have cellular capabilities. No cell-phones will be allowed on the expedition.

a book?
Unless it’s a natural history identification book, we’d ask you to leave books at home. You’ll be very busy during your expedition and will want to spend your downtime with other group members, sleeping, and just relaxing in nature. Books also get damaged easily. You can bring a book for your travel days but don’t plan to bring it on the expedition.

a pocket knife?
Please do not bring any knives with you to your course-start. Your instructors will provide knives as they are needed throughout the expedition.

my own camping gear (sleeping bag, tent, etc.)? 
We strongly discourage the use of personal camping equipment on Voyageur Outward Bound School courses because of the heavy wear and tear. We feel confident that the equipment we provide will best serve your needs on the expedition; it will keep you safe, warm and dry. If you have questions about using a piece of personal equipment normally provided by Outward Bound, please contact your course advisor to discuss. If you do decide to bring a piece of personal equipment, your instructors reserve the right to inspect it and ensure that it will adequately serve your needs during the expedition. If they do not think it will work, you can leave it with your luggage at the basecamp during the expedition.

fishing gear?
Every day you will be traveling from campsite to campsite working your way back to the Voyageur Outward Bound School basecamp or your pick-up location. You’ll be very busy with the daily chores of traveling and living in a wilderness setting and there may not be time for fishing. For this reason, fishing is not a typical activity on most Voyageur Outward Bound School courses. However, if you are very interested in fishing, an exception is sometimes (not always) possible. In these cases, you will need to ensure that you have the correct permit/license, bring one small collapsible pole and one small (paperback book size) fishing tackle box. Outward Bound will provide a fillet knife. Call your course adviser if you are interested in fishing during your course, but please understand that it may not work-out due to other course goals and logistics.

over the counter medications?
Voyageur Outward Bound School Instructors carry an extensive First-Aid kit with ample supply of over-the-counter medications like pain relievers and antacids, among other supplies. Instructors also carry prescription epinephrine injections in case of an anaphylactic emergency. You shouldn’t need to bring your own OTC medication. However, if you frequently take something specific, please consult your course advisor to discuss whether you should bring it or not.

tobacco, drugs, or alcohol?
Tobacco, drugs, and alcohol are NOT permitted on course, this includes both time spent in the wilderness and at basecamp.   

Please also DO NOT bring valuables, jewelry, makeup, candy, gum, or large amounts of money.