Backpacking


Resources
- Backpacking Class Preparation Page
- Backpacking Workbook
- Scoutmaster Bucky's Merit Badge Advancement Quick Reference
- Scoutmaster Bucky's Acknowledgement Form
Backpacking Requirements Current Scouts BSA requirements
as of March 8, 2025
as of March 8, 2025
1.
Discuss the prevention of and treatment for the health concerns that could
occur while backpacking, including hypothermia, heat reactions, frostbite,
dehydration, insect stings, tick bites, snakebite, and blisters.
2.
Do the following:
a.
List 10 items that are essential to be carried on any backpacking trek
and explain why each item is necessary.
b.
Describe 10 ways you can limit the weight and bulk to be carried in
your pack without jeopardizing your health or safety.
3.
Do the following:
a.
Define limits on the number of backpackers appropriate for a trek crew.
b.
Describe how a trek crew should be organized.
c.
Tell how you would minimize risk on a backpacking trek.
d.
Explain the purpose of an emergency response plan.
4.
Do the following:
a.
Describe the importance of following the Leave No Trace Seven
Principles and the Outdoor Code while backpacking, and at least five
ways you can lessen the crew's impact on the environment.
b.
Describe proper methods of handling human and other wastes while on a
backpacking trek. Describe the importance of and means to assure
personal cleanliness while on a backpacking trek.
c.
Tell what factors are important in choosing a campsite.
5.
Do the following:
a.
Demonstrate two ways to treat water and tell why water treatment is
essential.
b.
Explain to your counselor the importance of staying well-hydrated
during a trek.
6.
Do the following:
a.
Demonstrate that you can read topographic maps.
b.
While on a trek, use a map and compass to establish your position on
the ground at three different locations, OR use a GPS receiver to
establish your position on a topographic map and on the ground at three
different locations.
c.
Explain how to stay found, and what to do if you get lost.
7.
Tell how to properly prepare for and deal with inclement weather.
8.
Do the following:
a.
Explain the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of
backpacking stoves using at least three different types of fuel.
b.
Demonstrate that you know how to operate a backpacking stove safely
and to handle liquid fuel safely.
c.
Prepare three meals using a stove and fuel you can carry in a backpack.
d.
Demonstrate that you know how to keep cooking and eating gear clean and
sanitary, and that you practice proper methods for food storage while
on a backpacking trek.
9.
Do the following:
a.
Write a plan that includes a schedule for a patrol/crew backpacking
hike of at least 2 miles.
b.
Conduct a prehike inspection of the patrol and its equipment.
c.
Show that you know how to properly pack your personal gear and your
share of the crew's gear and food.
d.
Show you can properly shoulder your pack and adjust it for proper wear.
e.
While using the plan you developed for requirement 9a, carry your fully
loaded pack to complete a hike of at least 2 miles.
10.
Following the Leave No Trace Seven Principles and the Outdoor Code,
participate in at least three backpacking treks of at least three days each
and at least 15 miles each, and using at least two different campsites on
each trek. Carry everything you will need throughout the trek.
11.
Do the following:
a.
Write a plan for a backpacking trek of at least five days using at
least three different campsites and covering at least 30 miles. Your
plan must include a description of and route to the trek area, a
schedule (including a daily schedule), a list of food and equipment
needs, a safety and emergency plan, and a budget.
b.
Following the Leave No Trace Seven Principles and the Outdoor Code,
take the trek as planned in requirement 11(a) that is at least five
full days, covering at least 30 miles and utilizing at least three
different campsites. While on trek, complete at least one service
project approved by your counselor.
c.
Keep a daily journal during the trek that includes a day-by-day
description of your activities, including notes about what worked well
and thoughts about improvements that could be made for the next trek.