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How to care for hiking boots
Boots are one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll take on the trail. A worn-out pair can make you miserable. So take care of your footwear, and it’ll take care of you. Always clean your boots...
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How to build a survival shelter
Being a “survivor” has captured the imagination of millions of TV watchers. But a survivor is much more than a TV fantasy. A survivor is someone prepared to live—and live as healthfully as...
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How to build a campfire safely and responsibly
Campfire building is an important camping skill. However, overuse of campfires and an increasing demand for firewood has degraded the natural appearance of many areas. When building a fire, remember to...
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How to avoid heat exhaustion
John Musgrove was on his first backpacking trip, and he was not a happy hiker. “I’m tired, and I think I’m going to barf,” he moaned.” The eighth grader and his Scout patrol were hiking a section of...
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How to stay safe from bears
Here are some tips to help keep you safe from bears. Never snack in your tent. Keep all camp “smellables” stored properly, using bear-resistant containers to protect them from hungry bears. Smellables...
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How to use a map and compass
Want to win your next orienteering challenge? Get prepared by studying basic map-and-compass skills such as taking a bearing. Then move on to more advanced techniques such as aiming off and factoring...
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Use the moon and a watch to find north
The moon will tell you where the sun is, and from the sun’s position, you can figure out north. Face the full moon, and the sun is right behind you. When the moon is new and you see it as only a thin...
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How to treat and purify water
Here are three ways to treat water so it’s safe to drink. 1. Boil water over a stove or campfire. Once it comes to a rolling boil (when 1/2-inch bubbles are rising from the bottom of the pot), then...
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How to set up a tent
Before leaving for your trip, be sure you’re comfortable setting up — and taking down — your tent. That means reading the instruction booklet and getting plenty of practice. Here are a few tips for...
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How to choose a campsite
Remember these six keys to choosing a good campsite. Safety: Find a site away from low-lying places that could fill with water during a flash flood. Stay away from valleys, canyons and banks of small,...
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Choosing the most effective bug spray
Mosquitos and other bugs can spread disease and drive you crazy in the wilderness. Have no fear; bug sprays are here. But before you buy something to spray on your skin, consider the pluses and...
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Learn to tie knots
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Forms for planning your outing’s itinerary
Paperwork? For a backpacking trip? When it comes to backpacking and other outings, keeping good paperwork is part of Being Prepared. You’ll need a trip plan, an emergency plan and a duty roster....
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Scout outdoor essentials checklist
Get checklists for various types of outings They’re called “essentials” for a reason. Every packing list starts with these 10 items. A pocketknife or multitool can be handy in a wide variety of...
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How to pack a backpack
When it comes to experiencing the outdoors, nothing beats backpacking. But carrying around all that gear on a trail isn’t easy. Here are some ways you can make it easier by packing the right way:...
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How to prevent and treat blisters
There’s nothing better than hiking or backpacking in the great outdoors, but a blister can quickly ruin your day. Here are tips for how to avoid getting blisters and how to treat them. Some of the most...
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First-aid kit buying guide
You’re on an outing with your troop when a buddy slips off the trail and messes up his leg. Miles and at least a day’s hike from the nearest trailhead, what are you gonna do? Hopefully, you have the...
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How to start a fire without matches
Here are three ways to start a fire without the help of matches. Each can be effective, and all take lots of practice, but they’re actually pretty fun to learn. Watch our step-by-step video to learn...
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How to sharpen a pocketknife
A pocketknife like the Huntsman Boy Scout Swiss Army Knife is a very useful camp tool. It can cut a rope, open a can and whittle a tent stake. But it’s useful only if you keep it clean and sharp. A...
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How to display and fold the American flag
Our country’s flag is more than just a piece of cloth. It’s a symbol of America. It represents our past, our present and our future, which means the flag of the United States must be honored and...
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