Meeting Idea – Gear Inspection
Scout Meeting Plan: Camping Gear Inspection
Theme: Gear Care & Camp Readiness
Age Group: Scouts
Duration: 60–75 minutes
Objective: Teach scouts how to inspect, maintain, and pack camping gear to stay safe and prepared on campouts
Opening (10 minutes)
- Opening ceremony or flag break
- Scout Promise or Law
- Introduce the theme: “Good gear keeps us safe and comfortable”
- Safety reminder: handle equipment carefully and ask before using tools
Gear Basics Overview (10–15 minutes)
Leader-led discussion and demonstration:
- Why gear inspection matters (safety, comfort, cost savings)
- When to inspect gear (before and after trips)
- What to look for: damage, missing parts, cleanliness
Introduce the Check–Clean–Fix–Store approach.
Gear Inspection Stations (30–35 minutes)
Divide scouts into patrols and rotate through stations.
Station 1: Tents & Shelters
- Check poles, pegs, zippers, seams, and fabric
- Practise setting up a tent correctly
- Identify signs of wear or mildew
Station 2: Sleeping Gear
- Inspect sleeping bags for tears and zippers
- Check sleeping pads for leaks or damage
- Practise proper packing and storage
Station 3: Cooking & Food Gear
- Inspect stoves, fuel containers, and pots
- Check for rust, cracks, or loose parts
- Discuss food storage and cleanliness
Station 4: Packs, Clothing & Footwear
- Check backpacks for straps and buckles
- Inspect boots for tread and fit
- Identify weather-appropriate clothing
Patrol Gear Challenge (10–15 minutes)
Each patrol is given a “problem gear” scenario (e.g., broken zipper, missing tent peg, wet sleeping bag).
Tasks:
- Identify the issue
- Decide if it can be fixed, replaced, or reported
- Explain how to prevent the problem next time
Reflection & Discussion (10 minutes)
Discuss:
- What gear problems were easiest or hardest to spot?
- How does good gear care help the whole patrol?
- What gear should be checked first before a camp?
Closing (5 minutes)
- Recap key inspection tips
- Announcements and upcoming trips
- Scout closing or friendship circle
Materials Needed
- Sample camping gear (tents, packs, stoves, sleeping bags)
- Inspection checklists
- Repair items (duct tape, cord, patches)
- Scenario cards
Leader Tips
- Emphasize safety first, especially with stoves and fuel
- Encourage scouts to teach each other
- Adapt stations to the gear your group actually uses
- Reinforce that caring for gear is part of being a responsible scout
