PreFreeze

                               Winter Packing Tips for Scouts & Parents

       We hope the following information will help you pack for your first winter overnight trip. The primary challenge for any winter activity is keeping warm & dry. You should assume you will get wet. Once wet, you will get cold as soon as you slow down. Wool and synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene, polarplus, thermax, coolmax and other brands retain their insulating quality when wet. Cotton does not.

       WE THEREFOR INSIST THAT SCOUTS WEAR ONLY NON-COTTON FABRICS FOR WINTER ACTIVITIES.

      The PreFreeze is a great outing because we have the safety of a heated cabin. Additionally the cabin is a short walk from the cars so you don�t need to worry about a fancy backpack if you don�t have one.

                Suggested Minimum Checklist for the PreFreeze & DeepFreeze

- 2 pair pants for outdoor activities � snowpants or wool would be best. Additionally nylon rainpants are helpful if you have them.
- 2 pairs of long underwear � 1 pair for the outdoor activity, 1 pair for sleeping at night which can then be worn the next day
- A water repellent coat with hood
- 2 sweaters; it is preferable dress in layers instead of relying on one very warm coat which invariably gets wet from the elements or sweat
- 1 pair of winter or water repellent hiking boots � make sure the boots with socks are not so snug that they compress the circulation in the toes.
- a 2nd pair of warm footwear � such as hiking boots or warm �booties� just in case
- 2 warm wool hats which will cover the ears � NOT baseball caps
- at least 3 pair of wool socks
- 3 pair of gloves- mittens are even warmer � at least 1 pair being water repellent
- 2 undershorts
- 3 shirts � NOT COTTON � 1 for outside (will get wet), 1 for the evening, 1 to sleep in (could be pajama top)
- fork, spoon, knife, bowl, and insulated cup.
- Small hand towel, toothbrush, and soap
- Small pillow � optional
- Sleeping bag � preferably to 0 degrees. You may need to combine a fleece liner with a regular sleeping bag. Make sure it doesn�t compress the insulation.
- Closed cell foam pad � even a great sleeping bag is cold without a pad.