🧳 Sample Kit List for 14–24s Attending Kandersteg Scout Trip

Disclaimer: This is a sample kit list designed for Scouts aged 14–24 attending an international trip to Kandersteg, Switzerland. It is based on typical alpine conditions and Scout programme expectations. Leaders should adapt this list to suit final itinerary, weather forecasts, and activity plans. This list does not override any official guidance from Scout HQ or DofE programme requirements.

Conditions in the Swiss Alps are highly changeable, even in Summer. Mornings are often cold before the sun rises over the mountains, and it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach well over 25°C later in the day. Additionally, thunderstorms are not unusual in the mountains in Summer. For this reason, all participants must have everything on the list. If participants lack the necessary equipment, they may not be permitted to attend the activity; this decision is made at the discretion of KISC Staff.

Do Not over pack, but also do not under pack – this is why we are having a kit check prior to the event.

Thank to Hayley for Providing Event Polo Shirts – Provided before departure.

We Recommend (from experience) young people pack their own bags!

This Kitlist should be used with a bit of rationale if used for other events.

Tents will be provided, we will sort prior to departure
Travel insurance is covered at Group Level – Documents sent to you directly.

🧥 Clothing

Essential Layers:

• Waterproof jacket (with hood) (Goretex or similar)
• Waterproof trousers (Goretex or similar)
• Warm fleece or insulated mid-layer
• Base layers (thermal top and leggings)
• T-shirts (quick-dry or cotton)
• Long-sleeved shirt (for sun protection or layering)
• Lightweight trousers/shorts (not jeans)
• Warm jumper or hoodie
• Underwear and socks (including hiking socks)
• Sleepwear

Footwear:

• Hiking/Walking boots (broken-in, never use them for first use on an activity) (Goretex or similar)
  • Walking Shoes/Trainers are no substitute
• Trainers or comfortable shoes for travel
• Flip-flops or camp shoes (for showers)

Other:

• Explorer Uniform Shirt + Kandersteg Necker (UK Red white and Blue) + Dudley Necker (Navy Blue and Yellow)
• Hat (sun and/or warm)
• Sunglasses
• Gloves (lightweight or insulated)
• Buff or scarf
• Swimwear
• Towel for swimming

🛏️ Sleeping & Camping

• Sleeping bag (3-season recommended)
• Sleeping Bag Liner
  • e.g. https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/products/eurohike-mummy-liner-navy-120276?variant=55607612277062
• Sleeping mat or roll mat (not a camp bed)
• Travel pillow or stuff sack with clothes
• Lightweight blanket (optional)
• Headtorch + spare batteries

🧼 Toiletries & Health

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap/shower gel
• Towel (microfibre recommended)
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush/comb
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Personal medication (with spares)
  • Prescription Medication NEEDS a Doctors Letter at Customs https://www.gov.uk/take-medicine-in-or-out-uk
• First aid kit (personal)
• Hand sanitiser
• Tissues

🍽️ Eating & Hydration

• Water bottle (2L minimum, ideally 3L)
• Cup, Knife, Fork, Spoon, Bowl, Plate (lightweight)
• Tea towel

📄 Documents & Essentials

• Passport (valid for travel dates) + EHIC/GHIC card (To be handed to Leaders on Departure)
• Euros/Swiss Francs (as advised) – Recommendation 100CHF – Monzo/Chase cards will be fine
• Emergency contact card (Provided on departure)
• Notebook and pen
• Phone + charger + usb plug adapter + Power bank
  • Check your phone contract for EU Roaming
  • Swiss Plug Adapter – 3-Pack UK to Switzerland Plug Adapters, Switzerland Swiss Plug Adaptor, Swiss Travel Adapter 3 Pin Grounded International Universal for Swiss, Jordan, Liechtenstein, Madagascar, Rwanda (Type J-White): Amazon.co.uk: Electronics & Photo
• Waterproof stuff sack for electronics

🚫 Do Not Bring

• Expensive jewellery or valuables
• Bulky Heavy Items
• Aerosols (check airline rules)
• Large amounts of cash
• Items prohibited by Scout policy or Customs