The Camping List
This list, loosely based on an organized list from a book called 'The Known World Handbook', published by the SCA, is my take on SCA camping.
First Thing to Always Remember: It will rain. It will be ungodly hot. Or it will be perfect. Bring appropriate garb (clothing).
Second Thing to Always Remember: Ask if you can help. It's a good way to meet people. Feeling overwhelmed? Help the feastocrat, or the kitchen squad. Trust me on this one.
Third Thing to Always Remember: If you want to find out information or need a little help getting started, SCAdians all have benefitted from the advice and assistance from the experienced 'Old Guard' who make it look easy, so they're happy to pay it forward. If you're the independent, introverted type like me, you'd rather eat ground glass than ask for help or advice. I regret not asking sooner, because it saved me lots of time and errors when I have done so.
Fourth Thing to Always Remember: There is no such thing as SCA "camping light". Packing for an SCA camping event will eventually become an exercise not unlike Tetris. A game of skill.
THE LIST:
Bedroll. Sleeping bags are nice, but if they get wet, they take a long time to dry.
Hammer & stakes to go with the tent you will need.
Pillow for bedroll.
Containers, plastic bags, etc. to stow things in.
Cloth to hide/cover plastic coolers, containers & bags.
Water, if the site doesn't have any.
Grills/fires should be at least a foot (18" is better) off the ground. You must have a 5-gallon bucket of water near the fire, too. Some places DO NOT ALLOW fires of any kind. Ask. Plan ahead.
Pots, pans, can openers, matches, utensils and hot pads are useful; Coleman style stoves, too.
Food and food storage (like a cooler). There may or may not be feasts at your event.
Bring change of clothing, socks and shoes.
Don't worry if your shoes aren't period. Just try to go for something neutral. Like black rubber farm boots or "roman sandals'.
A blanket with a pin is called a cloak. Serves double duty on a cold night, too!
Non-disposable cups, goblets, cutlery, plates, bowls, cloth napkins, etc.
Something to wash and dry dishes with.
There may/may not be picnic tables at the event. Ask. Bring a picnic blanket or small table.
Folding chairs are nice, especially at court.
Summertime requires bug repellent and sunscreen. Straw hats, medieval period style are indispensible at times. Mine was borrowed regularly.
Soap, washcloth, towel, toothpaste and sundry toiletries. A bucket for 'sponge bathing'.
'Honey Buckets' & toilet paper will be provided at any camping event.
Flashlights help you find the Honey Bucket faster at night.
Dogs need to be leashed at all times.
Boomboxes and electronic entertainment are frowned upon.
Helping others set up and take down, load or unload their encampment is encouraged.
Put the trash in the dumpster. Not next to it. Need garbage bags? Just ask.
Do not walk through others' encampment.
Leave space between your encampment and your neighbor's.
If you need to borrow something forgotten, or need help, just ask the Chatelaine or Gold Key. They probably can help, or will go find someone to help. Stromgard is AWESOME that way.
Baskets to carry your plates & stuff to the feast in.
Flameless candles are nice at night.
Emergency numbers and IDs, allegy list, etc. - just in case.
Paper and writing gear is helpful at times.
2:00 SCA time means at, around or an hour later than 2:00. It's kinda fluid. That's why people stop and listen to the Herald or the Herald's runner crying the news of various activities that are commencing.
Cameras are okay. Courtesy requires you ask before capturing the likeness of someone else, however.
Projects and games are good to do while waiting, if you are the quiet type. Or go check out the Merchant's Row.
A belt to hang things on. Mug hooks. Bottle holders. Keys. Or a pouch, shoulder bag or small basket in which to hold cell phone, money, reading glasses, etc.