Make your “check list” during the winter.  Have an old box handy in which to put things you think you will want to take to camp.  Boys usually talk over the experiences of the last camp until about January 1st, then they begin to talk and plan about the next camp.  As you think of things jot them down in a little memorandum book marked “Camp Ideas.”  Leaders will find this plan especially helpful.  In making up the list, put down each article on a separate line.  Don’t jumble things together.  Leave nothing to memory which, alas, too frequently is a splendid “forgetter.”  Write it down on paper.  Examine your list very carefully, and strike out everything you can do without.  Simplicity coupled with comfort should be the guide in making up the list or inventory.  Tack the list on the inside of your trunk or camp box.  Often the little trifles prove the most valuable things on a camping trip.  For instance, a supply of giant safety pins is invaluable for pinning blankets together in sleeping-bag fashion.  Ever roll out of your blankets or toss them off on a cool night?  If so, you know the value of a giant safety pin.

What to pack the outfit in and how to pack it is a problem which each must solve for himself.  A cracker box, with hinged cover, padlock, and rope handles, is good for a short-time camping trip.  It should be of the following dimensions:  30 x 18 x 15 inches.

[Illustration:  Camp Box]

A good strong steamer trunk is about the best thing.  It is convenient, easy to handle, and takes up very little space.

The boys who are mechanically inclined, will want to have the fun of making a camp box.  The illustration is a suggestion successfully worked out by a number of boys.  The dimensions may be determined by the maker.  Don’t make it too big, or it will be a burden and also occupy too much room in the tent.  It stands upright and serves as a dresser.  Boys who spend a summer in camp should have either a steamer trunk or this dresser.

If the trunk or box is too small to carry blankets, a good plan is to roll blankets, bedding and such articles in a roll or canvas, the ends and sides of which are doubled inward, so as to prevent articles from dropping out or getting wet.  Strap with a good shawl or strong rope. (See illustration.)

[Illustration:  Blanket Roll.]

A dunnage[1], duffle, or carry-all bag is sometimes used for packing, but there is a possibility of a “mess” as well as a loss of your good disposition and patience in trying to locate some desired article.

Carry your poncho to be used in case of rain en route.

[Transcriber’s Footnote 1:  Personal baggage.]

Shipping

Have your expressman deliver your baggage at the station at least one hour before the train starts.  If the baggage is delayed, much annoyance and loss of temper is the result.  If the camp is a large one, some one should be designated to look after the baggage arrangements.  After checking the baggage, this person should receive checks and attend to claiming baggage at destination.