Required Gear List for Overnight Navigation Course
To ensure your safety, comfort, and success during our 2-day field training, please bring the following gear:
1. Backpack or Rucksack
- Large and durable enough to carry all your gear, food, water, hygiene items, and a first aid kit.
- You’ll be living out of this pack for the entire course.
2. Shelter System
- One survival blanket (recommended: Arcturus Heavy Duty Emergency Blanket, 5x7)
OR
- A small, packable tent or tarp with at least six tent stakes.
3. Sleeping System
- A sleeping bag rated for the expected seasonal temperatures.
4. Water & Cooking Kit
- A single-wall stainless steel water bottle with a nesting cup
OR
- A military-style stainless steel canteen with a cup
- Minimum size: 32 oz
- Bring two gallons of drinking water
5. Fire Kit
- One large ferrocerium rod (5–6" long, ½" diameter)
- Two disposable lighters (BIC recommended)
6. Light Source
- One headlamp or flashlight
- Bring two extra sets of batteries
7. Navigation & Notes
- A compass with adjustable declination and sighting mirror
(Recommended: Suunto MC-2)
Loaner compasses are available for students
- One small, weatherproof notebook and a pen or pencil
8. Cordage
- At least 100 feet of 550 paracord
9. Signal Cloth
- Two bright orange bandanas or equivalent 100% cotton scraps
OR
- One bright orange shemagh
10. Knife
- One fixed-blade, full-tang knife with a 4–5 inch blade
- Non-serrated and no cut-outs or perforations in the blade
11. Clothing & Footwear
- Appropriate seasonal outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear
- No flip-flops, sandals, heels, or wedges
Food & Water:
- Bring enough food and snacks for the full course duration
- Students will be cooking and preparing meals in a camp-style environment