Camping with Pfadfinder
Camping is one of the highlights of Pfadfinder. Whether it’s an overnight stay at the Scout Hall or a weekend away, camps help children build confidence, independence and lifelong memories.
This guide explains what to pack, what the group provides and how families can help make camp a success.
Before you pack
Children aged 8 and over are encouraged to pack their own bags wherever possible. Learning to prepare for camp is an important part of becoming more independent.
You can download our printable Pfadfinder Camp Packing List or use the checklist below.
What to bring
- Hat and sunscreen
- Scout blanket (if you have one)
- Pillow
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping mat or air mattress
- Favourite soft toy (optional)
- Any required medication
- Water bottle
- Scout uniform (to wear on arrival)
- Change of clothes
- Warm jumper
- Jacket and/or raincoat
- Pyjamas
- Small day pack
- Toothbrush, toothpaste and comb
- Torch
- Towel (for longer camps with showers)
Depending on the activity you may also need:
- Swimmers and towel
- Bicycle and helmet
Please don’t bring
To help keep everyone safe and focused on the experience, please leave these items at home unless your Leader has advised otherwise.
- Knives
- Lighters
- Electronic devices (except Venturers and Rovers where appropriate)
- Money (unless requested for a specific activity)
- Lollies and sweets
What we provide
Spielwelt provides most of the equipment needed for camp, including:
- All meals and snacks (including vegetarian options where available)
- Drinking water and juice
- Plates, cutlery and cooking equipment
- Activity equipment
- Tents (except family camps, where families bring their own tents)
If you need to borrow a tent, please speak with your Group Leader.
Camp expectations
Our normal Pfadfinder expectations also apply on camp.
Children are expected to:
- stay with the group unless supervised by an adult
- follow leader instructions
- treat other people with kindness and respect
- help create a safe and enjoyable camp for everyone
For everyone’s wellbeing, a child may be asked to return home early if they:
- deliberately hurt another person
- leave the group without permission
- become too homesick to continue safely
How families can help
Pfadfinder camps rely on the support of our wonderful parent community.
You might be able to help by:
- loading and unloading equipment
- preparing a meal, salad or cake
- helping in the camp kitchen
- assisting with transport or logistics
Every contribution, big or small, helps our volunteer leaders focus on creating a great experience for the children.