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. You can find these items at camping, outdoor, 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; if an item is not needed for your course 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 course. Your valuables and electronics will stay in your luggage for the duration of the course. These items will be returned to you at the end of the course. 

Outward Bound will provide you with these items:

• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat
• Rain gear
• All activity-related 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. 

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.

As this is a shorter course, VOBS does have clothing items available for your use. Please let us know if there is anything you can't find or would prefer not to purchase. We'll make a list of those items for your instructors.

Head

• 1 Warm Beanies. 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 that will serve multiple purposes. 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.
• 2 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 Medium-Weight Warm Top. This can be a polyester or 100-weight wool or fleece shirt.  Usually comes with a ½ to ¾ zipper.
• 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.
• 2 Sports Bras if needed. Should be appropriate for athletic activity. 

 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. MUST be loose fitting to aid in movement and protect against bug bites through the pants.  We cannot stress this enough - no yoga-style or tight pants! Must be loose-fitting. 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.
• 3 Pairs Underwear - Synthetic or Cotton. Synthetic underwear is usually a blend of Nylon and Spandex that breathes well, wicks moisture, and dries quickly. Synthetic is recommended, but cotton is okay as well. For women, it is recommended to bring 1-2 pairs of each, synthetic and cotton.
• 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

• 2 Pair Mediumweight Hiking Socks. These socks must be wool. Sock Example.
• 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. 
• 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 Belt.  Any belt will work. Non-leather recommended.
• 1 Water Bottles. 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 an LED headlamp that uses a minimum of three volts (two or more AA- or AAA-batteries). 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.
• 1 Hand Sanitizers. Pocket-sized squeeze bottles of hand sanitizer. 
• 1 Insect Repellent. 30% DEET or other effective repellent. No aerosol.
• 1 Toiletries Kit. Toothbrush, small toothpaste, comb or brush. Students who have periods Bring plenty of supplies. Change in activities can cause irregular periods.
• 2 Sets Prescription Medications. If you use prescription medications, 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. 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.
• Inhalers.  If you use an inhaler 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 back country.
• 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.
• 1 Set Clean Clothes. After you return to basecamp and shower you’ll want clean clothes.  You’ll wear these at the end of your course, including service projects and traveling home.  Don’t forget to include socks and underwear.  Please bring clothes that cover your stomach and upper legs and take into consideration cultural differences and social expectations.

 Travel

• Money.  Think about bringing $15-$20 for meals on your arrival and departure days.  Also, bring a little money if you think 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.  

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 sturdy hiking 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.

In the fall your camp shoes will also keep your feet warm and dry as the weather gets colder. For this reason, we ask that you get a shoe that is sturdier than a regular running shoe. Most running shoes are made of mesh and will get soaked when walking around in wet grass in camp. Here are three options that work well for fall camp shoes. You can also find something similar, but keep these three examples in mind as you look for shoes that will keep your feet warm and dry. 

Keen Voyageur Hiking Shoe

Scarpa Crux II Approach Shoes

La Sportiva Boulder X

If you have questions about a different shoe, please contact your Course Advisor to see if the shoe you are considering will be a good option. 

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.

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 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. 

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.  

• 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).
• 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 recommend 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 during the course.

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 course 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.

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.

over-the-counter medications?
Voyageur Outward Bound School Instructors carry an extensive First-Aid kit with an 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.