Keeping clean and comfortable at Philmont is important, but you’ll want to pack light and smart. Below is a list of essential personal items Troop 589 recommends, along with a few tips to help you stay fresh on the trail without overpacking. Remember: no cotton towels, keep things unscented, and make sure any liquids are leak-proof.
Dry air and high elevation mean cracked lips are common—bring a good lip balm (ideally with SPF).
Scouts must carry their own medications and should check in with the Medical Officer before departure.
Useful for hanging clothes to dry or quick gear repairs. Small, light, and handy to have.
Bring a chamois-style towel, not cotton. You won’t be wrapping it around yourself - just drying off after showers. Some scouts also pack a bandana or two as extras.
Use a small 2 oz Nalgene bottle filled with unscented Dr. Bronner’s or camp suds. Dr. B’s is concentrated and works for both body and clothes.
Bring a basic toothbrush - travel-size toothpaste is optional since some crews carry one tube for everyone.
Why Bandanas Instead of a Towel?
For Philmont, a full-size towel is unnecessary and bulky. Instead, Troop 589 recommends bringing a few lightweight cotton bandanas - they’re compact, fast-drying, and incredibly versatile. Great for drying off after a quick shower, wiping sweat, or even using as a head covering or necktie. The Bioworld 22x22 Multicolored Bandana Pack is a perfect option: affordable, durable, and comes in a variety of colors to help you keep track of them on the trail.
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Cover your face, add some flair to your look, or just add a fun new accessory to your outfit with this multicolored cotton bandana 12 pack. These are perfect for going anywhere from the grocery store to the rodeo!
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For personal care on the trail, Troop 589 recommends the Nalgene Travel Kit paired with unscented Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap. The travel kit includes a variety of leakproof, BPA-free bottles and jars, perfect for carrying small amounts of soap, lotion, or other toiletries. Pair it with Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Baby Mild Castile Soap, a concentrated, biodegradable, and multi-purpose soap that works for your body, hair, and even laundry. It’s lightweight, effective, and ideal for staying clean and organized at Philmont without overpacking.
Keep your skin nourished and moisturized with the Pure Castile Liquid Soap for Baby from Dr. Bronners. Dr. Bronner's operates by its All-One mission: Work hard and grow, do right by customers, treat employees like family, be fair to suppliers, treat the ea... Show More
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Nalgene
* We earn a commission if you buy through this Amazon link. We personally selected this recommendation.