Backpacking Merit Badge

Introduction

The Backpacking Merit Badge is all about exploring the great outdoors on foot. You'll learn how to plan and prepare for a backpacking trip, how to navigate in the wilderness, and how to take care of yourself and the environment while you're out there.

Merit Badge Requirements

1. Explain the importance of packing light and list 10 items that every backpacker should carry.
2. Describe the importance of proper nutrition and hydration on a backpacking trip.
3. Plan a backpacking trip of at least 2 nights, including a route and a menu.
4. Demonstrate how to properly pack a backpack and adjust it for a comfortable fit.
5. Explain the Leave No Trace principles and how they apply to backpacking.
6. Complete a 5-mile hike carrying a backpack weighing at least 25 pounds.
7. Participate in a backpacking trip of at least 3 days and 2 nights.

Lesson

Hey there, scouts! Are you ready to hit the trail and earn your Backpacking Merit Badge? Let's get started!

First things first, we need to talk about packing. When you're backpacking, you want to pack as light as possible. Every ounce counts! So, what are the 10 essential items that every backpacker should carry? Let's see if you know:

• Map and compass
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit
• Knife or multi-tool
• Firestarter
• Extra clothing
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Extra food
• Water filter or purification tablets

Good job! Now, let's talk about nutrition and hydration. When you're backpacking, you need to make sure you're getting enough calories and water to keep your body going. What are some good foods to bring on a backpacking trip? And how much water should you drink per day? Think about it and we'll come back to it later.

Next up, planning your trip. You need to choose a route and plan your menu. What factors should you consider when choosing a route? And how do you plan a menu that will give you the energy you need without weighing you down? Let's brainstorm together.

Now, let's talk about packing your backpack. You want to make sure you distribute the weight evenly and adjust the straps for a comfortable fit. Can you demonstrate how to do that?

One of the most important things to remember when backpacking is to Leave No Trace. That means you need to be mindful of your impact on the environment and take steps to minimize it. What are the 7 Leave No Trace principles? And how do they apply to backpacking?

Finally, it's time to hit the trail! You need to complete a 5-mile hike carrying a backpack weighing at least 25 pounds. Can you do it? Of course you can!

And then, the big finale: a backpacking trip of at least 3 days and 2 nights. You'll put all your skills to the test and have an amazing adventure in the great outdoors. Are you excited?

Questions

• What are the 10 essential items that every backpacker should carry?
• What are some good foods to bring on a backpacking trip?
• How much water should you drink per day when backpacking?
• What factors should you consider when choosing a backpacking route?
• What are the 7 Leave No Trace principles?

Remember, if you have any questions or need help with any of the requirements, don't hesitate to ask your merit badge counselor. They're there to help you succeed!

Schedule

Week	Tasks
1	Research and plan your backpacking trip
2	Practice packing your backpack and adjusting the straps
3	Complete a 5-mile hike with a 25-pound backpack
4-6	Participate in a backpacking trip of at least 3 days and 2 nights

Good luck and happy trails!