Gear List for the BWCAW

The following gear list provides an excellent basic list of gear to bring on any summer trip into the BWCAW.

Canoeing Gear and Transportation

• entry permit
• canoe
• waterproof maps (at least 1 per canoe for your whole route)
• life jackets (1 per person)
• paddles (plus one extra)
• portage packs (see below)

Clothing

• long pants
• shorts
• T-shirts
• long-sleeve shirt
• socks
• underwear
• hat with visor
• gloves or mittens
• sweater or fleece pullover
• rain gear
• footwear (2 pair w/ good traction)

Shelter & Sleeping Gear

• sleeping bag
• sleeping pad
• tent
• ground cloth
• rain fly (optional)

Cooking & Food Preparation

• food pack, optionally bear proof
• cooking kit containing at least:
  • two large sauce pans
  • frying pan
  • cups
  • plates
  • bowls
  • silverware
  • water filter
• backpacking stove
• stove fuel
• water proof matches & spares
• biodegradable dish soap
• “bear rope” (50 feet of 3/8” braided nylon)

Personal Hygiene and Safety

• toilet paper
• toothbrush and toothpaste
• first aid kit
• biodegradable soap and shampoo
• sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)
• lip balm

Insect Protection

• mosquito repellent
• bug net (optional)

Miscellaneous

• pocket knife
• flashlight & spare batteries
• fishing gear
• Minnesota fishing license
• poles and reels
• lures
• leeches or minnows (optional)
• filet knife
• stringer
• nature guides
• compass
• camera