AESOP 2023 Packing Lists

Acadia Adventure


  • A sleeping bag, must be able to stay warm up to 35 degrees Fahrenheit**
  • A sleeping pad**
  • Two water bottles 
  • Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**
  • Hiking boots (recommended)/comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)**
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)
  • Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)
  • 2-3 pairs underwear
  • 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)
  • 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)
  • 1-2 pairs athletic shorts
  • Bowl**
  • Spoon/knife/spork**
  • Water bottle 
  • Raincoat
  • Warm hat/headband
  • Sun hat/sunglasses
  • Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes
  • Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

  • Swimsuit
  • 1 pair long pants (not jeans)
  • Rainpants
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)
  • Cards! Games! 

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

AESOP recommends hiking boots for all backpacking trips. However, if you are experienced and prefer different shoes, or you cannot buy a pair of hiking boots, please stick to those shoes/athletic sneakers. Those will work great!

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us!

Acadia Climbing

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Animalsop (Sleeping on Campus)

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Extra shirt 

☐ Extra pair of shorts

☐ Water bottle (or 2)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sunscreen

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

Artchillin’

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks

☐ 2-3 shirts

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.AESOP recommends hiking boots for all backpacking trips. However, if you are experienced and prefer different shoes, or you cannot buy a pair of hiking boots, please stick to those shoes/athletic sneakers. Those will work great!

ArtSOP (Sleeping on Campus)

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. ALL students, regardless of their type of trip, should bring all of the items on this list. If you have any questions about gear, please don’t hesitate to ask us or your leaders.

☐ Warm layer for the top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ Water bottle (2 for backpacking)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ 1 pair of long pants (not jeans)

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on a backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things:

1. Community engagement trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

Appalachian Trail Maintenance


A sleeping bag, must be able to stay warm up to 35 degrees Fahrenheit**

  • A sleeping pad**
  • Two water bottles 
  • Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**
  • Hiking boots (recommended)/comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)**
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)
  • Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)
  • 2-3 pairs underwear
  • 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)
  • 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)
  • 1-2 pairs athletic shorts
  • Bowl**
  • Spoon/knife/spork**
  • Water bottle 
  • Raincoat
  • Warm hat/headband
  • Sun hat/sunglasses
  • Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes
  • Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

  • Swimsuit
  • 1 pair long pants (not jeans)
  • Rainpants
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)
  • Cards! Games! 

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

AESOP recommends hiking boots for all backpacking trips. However, if you are experienced and prefer different shoes, or you cannot buy a pair of hiking boots, please stick to those shoes/athletic sneakers. Those will work great!

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us!

Beach Chillin’


This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. ALL students, regardless of their type of trip, should bring all of the items on this list. If you have any questions about gear, please don’t hesitate to ask us or your leaders.

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other

trips)**

☐ Hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for the top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs of underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry-wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs of athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle (2 for backpacking)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip-flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush, and other personal items

☐ Swimsuit/swimwear**

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ 1 pair of long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on a backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things:

1. Basecamping trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (a school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.
2. Hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP. Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break into your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Bigelow Range Backpacking

  • Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35℉ ) 
  • Sleeping pad 
  • Backpack of capacity ≥55L
  • Hiking boots or comfy athletic shoes with grip (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!) 
  • 3-4 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic are best, but cotton is ok) 
  • 3-4 pairs of underwear 
  • 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry-wicking material is recommended) 
  • 2 pairs of athletic shorts/pants 
  • Warm layer for legs (long underwear, sweatpants, leggings) 
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, sweatshirt) 
  • 2 water bottles 
  • Toothbrush/toothpaste, other personal hygiene items 
  • Sunscreen (leaders can bring one can for their group to share) 
  • Rain jacket/ windbreaker 
  • Bowl 
  • Spoon or spork 

Optional: 

  • Swimsuit 
  • Rainpants 
  • Headlamp/ flashlight 
  • Camera (students will not have access to phones for pictures) 
  • Sunhat 

*Important to Note: 

You will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide) throughout the day while hiking, so please refrain from bringing more equipment than what is on the list. 

Camden Basecamping

  • Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35℉) 
  • Sleeping pad 
  • Backpack of capacity ≥55L
  • Hiking boots or comfy athletic shoes with grip (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!) 
  • 3-4 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic are best, but cotton is ok) 
  • 3-4 pairs of underwear 
  • 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry-wicking material is recommended) 
  • 2 pairs of athletic shorts/pants 
  • Warm layer for legs (long underwear, sweatpants, leggings) 
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, sweatshirt) 
  • 2 water bottles 
  • Toothbrush/toothpaste, other personal care items 
  • Sunscreen (leaders can bring one can for their group to share) 
  • Rain jacket/ windbreaker 
  • Bowl 
  • Spoon or spork 

Optional: 

  • Swimsuit 
  • Rainpants 
  • Headlamp/ flashlight 
  • Camera (students will not have access to phones for pictures) 

CitySOP

  • One water bottle
  • Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**
  • Comfortable shoes to walk in (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)**
  • Rain coat just in case
  • Warm layer if it is going to be cold
  • Warm hat/headband
  • Sun hat/sunglasses
  • Sandals or flip flops for beach
  • Sunscreen, other personal items
  • Swimsuit
  • Camera
  • Cards/ games

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us!

Community Engagement in L.A. (sleeping on campus)

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Comfortable work boots/athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Bring a warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Extra shirt 

☐ Extra pair of shorts

☐ Water bottle (or 2)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sunscreen

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

Community Engagement in Maine

Coming soon!

Day Hiking (sleeping on campus)

Coming soon!

Exploring Lewiston/Auburn (sleeping on campus)

  • Sleeping bag 
  • Sleeping pad
  • Backpack (day pack or duffel bag) 
  • Comfortable walking shoes 
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, sweatshirt)
  • 3-4 pairs of socks 
  • 3-4 pairs of underwear 
  • 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry-wicking material is recommended) 
  • 2 pairs of athletic shorts/pants 
  • Warm layer for legs (long underwear, sweatpants, leggings) 
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, sweatshirt) 
  • Water bottle 
  • Toothbrush/toothpaste, other personal care items 
  • Sunscreen (leaders can bring one can for their group to share) 
  • Rain jacket/ windbreaker 

Optional: 

  • Sunhat 
  • Sunglasses 
  • Camera (students will not have access to phones for pictures) 

FarmSOP at Nezinscot

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Comfortable work boots/closed toe shoes that you do not mind getting dirty (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or 

sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​/farmSOP trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will

be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Film Festival (sleeping on campus)

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. ALL students, regardless of their type of trip, should bring all of the items on this list. If you have any questions about gear, please don’t hesitate to ask us or your leaders.

☐ Warm layer for the top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ Water bottle (2 for backpacking)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ 1 pair of long pants (not jeans)

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on a backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things:

1. Community engagement trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

Franconia Backpacking

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots (recommended)/comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

AESOP recommends hiking boots for all backpacking trips. However, if you are experienced and prefer different shoes, or you cannot buy a pair of hiking boots, please stick to those shoes/athletic sneakers. Those will work great!

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us!

Grafton Backpacking

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots (recommended)/comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

AESOP recommends hiking boots for all backpacking trips. However, if you are experienced and prefer different shoes, or you cannot buy a pair of hiking boots, please stick to those shoes/athletic sneakers. Those will work great!

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us!

Habitat for Humanity

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Comfortable work boots/closed toe shoes that you do not mind getting dirty (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or 

sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​/farmSOP trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will

be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Lakes Chillin’ (sleeping on campus)

Packing List Lake Chillin’

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. ALL students, regardless of their type of trip, should bring all of the items on this list. If you have any questions about gear, please don’t hesitate to ask your leaders.

☐ Day pack (school backpack works just fine)

☐ Comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!) 

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary) 

☐ Warm layer for legs (long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is best)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle (2 for backpacking)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Camp shoes (crocs, flip flops, etc)

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Recommended but not mandatory:

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other gear available for students to borrow.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things :

1. Since you are on a lake chillin’ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (a school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! 

2. Most importantly, athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP. Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break into your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, if you do not own/cannot buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Lakes Chillin’

Packing List Lake Chillin’

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. ALL students, regardless of their type of trip, should bring all of the items on this list. If you have any questions about gear, please don’t hesitate to ask your leaders.

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Day pack (school backpack works just fine)

☐ Comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!) 

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary) 

☐ Warm layer for legs (long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is best)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle (2 for backpacking)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Camp shoes (crocs, flip flops, etc)

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Recommended but not mandatory:

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other gear available for students to borrow.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things :

1. Since you are on a lake chillin’ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (a school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! 

2. Most importantly, athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP. Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break into your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, if you do not own/cannot buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Moosehead Basecamping


  • A sleeping bag, must be able to stay warm up to 35 degrees Fahrenheit**
  • A sleeping pad**
  • Two water bottles 
  • Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**
  • Hiking boots (recommended)/comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)**
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)
  • Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)
  • 2-3 pairs underwear
  • 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)
  • 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)
  • 1-2 pairs athletic shorts
  • Bowl**
  • Spoon/knife/spork**
  • Water bottle 
  • Raincoat
  • Warm hat/headband
  • Sun hat/sunglasses
  • Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes
  • Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

  • Swimsuit
  • 1 pair long pants (not jeans)
  • Rainpants
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)
  • Cards! Games! 

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

AESOP recommends hiking boots for all backpacking trips. However, if you are experienced and prefer different shoes, or you cannot buy a pair of hiking boots, please stick to those shoes/athletic sneakers. Those will work great!

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us!

Moosehead Lake Canoeing

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will

be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Mooselookmeguntic Canoeing

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will

be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Mt. Blue Basecamping

  • Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35℉) 
  • Sleeping pad 
  • Backpack of capacity ≥55L
  • Hiking boots or comfy athletic shoes with grip (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!) 
  • 3-4 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic are best, but cotton is ok) 
  • 3-4 pairs of underwear 
  • 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry-wicking material is recommended) 
  • 2 pairs of athletic shorts/pants 
  • Warm layer for legs (long underwear, sweatpants, leggings) 
  • Warm layer for top (fleece, sweatshirt) 
  • 2 water bottles 
  • Toothbrush/toothpaste, other personal care items 
  • Sunscreen (leaders can bring one can for their group to share) 
  • Rain jacket/ windbreaker 
  • Bowl 
  • Spoon or spork 

Optional: 

  • Swimsuit 
  • Rainpants 
  • Headlamp/ flashlight 
  • Camera (students will not have access to phones for pictures) 
  • Sunhat 

Portland Exploration

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. ALL students, regardless of their type of trip, should bring all of the items on this list. If you have any questions about gear, please don’t hesitate to ask us or your leaders.

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other

trips)**

☐ Hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for the top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs of underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry-wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs of athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle (2 for backpacking)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip-flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush, and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ 1 pair of long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on a backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things:

1. Basecamping trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (a school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

2. Community engagement trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

Rangeley Basecamping

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will

be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Saco River Chillin’

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will

be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Salt Pump (sleeping on campus)

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience.

☐ Comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Extra shirt 

☐ Extra pair of shorts

☐ Water bottle (or 2)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sunscreen

☐ Day Pack/backpack

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

Surfing

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. ALL students, regardless of their type of trip, should bring all of the items on this list. If you have any questions about gear, please don’t hesitate to ask your leaders.

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Day pack (school backpack works just fine)

☐ Comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!) 

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary) 

☐ Warm layer for legs (long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is best)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle (2 for backpacking)

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Camp shoes (crocs, flip flops, etc)

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Recommended but not mandatory:

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and other gear available for students to borrow.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things :

1. Since you are on a surfing trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (a school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! 

2. Most importantly, athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP. Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break into your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, if you do not own/cannot buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

3. Surfboards and wetsuits will be rented for you, but if you have your own from home, please bring them!

Umbagog Canoeing

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ Swimsuit

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will

be totally worth it in the end. Trust us! Additionally, although we strongly recommend hiking boots for the trips, ​if you do not own/are not able to buy a new pair, a good set of sturdy-soled sneakers will be okay!

Woodshop (sleeping on campus)

Coming soon!

Wool and Waves

This list is meant to give you a basic idea of what you will need to bring to be prepared for your trip. It is compiled by experienced outdoor leaders and has been tested by years of AESOP experience. 

☐ Sleeping bag (rated to at least 35°F)**

☐ Sleeping pad**

☐ Backpack (capacity ≥55L for backpacking/amphibious trips; a day pack and duffel bag will suffice for all other trips)**

☐ Athletic sneakers (recommended)/comfortable athletic shoes (MAKE SURE THEY ARE BROKEN IN!)

☐ Warm layer for top (fleece, vest, or sweatshirt. Non-cotton is best, but not necessary)

☐ Wetsuit (if owned/wants to bring)

☐ Warm layer for legs (like long underwear or sweatpants)

☐ 2-3 pairs underwear

☐ 2-3 pairs socks (wool or synthetic athletic socks are best, but cotton is okay)

☐ 2-3 shirts (synthetic, dry wicking material is much better than cotton, but cotton is okay)

☐ 1-2 pairs athletic shorts

☐ Bowl**

☐ Spoon/knife/spork**

☐ Water bottle 

☐ Raincoat

☐ Warm hat/headband

☐ Sun hat/sunglasses

☐ Sandals or flip flops for camp shoes

☐ Sunscreen, toothbrush and other personal items

☐ Swimsuit

Optional, but nice to have:

☐ 1 pair long pants (not jeans)

☐ Rainpants

☐ Headlamp/flashlight

☐ Camera (students will not have phones on their trips to take photos)

**AESOP has a limited number of sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and other gear available for students to borrow. We do not lend day packs, only backpacks for those going on backpacking or amphibious trips. For day trips, a school backpack will do fine.

AESOP recommends hiking boots for all backpacking trips. However, if you are experienced and prefer different shoes, or you cannot buy a pair of hiking boots, please stick to those shoes/athletic sneakers. Those will work great!

A Few Important Trip-Specific Things​ ​:

1. If you are on a ​backpacking​, ​canoeing​, or ​amphibious​ trip you will need to carry your personal equipment (plus assorted group gear and food that we will provide), so please refrain from bringing more equipment than is on this list. Additionally, it will help when packing your backpack or canoe if you make sure all your things are in smaller stuff sacks as opposed to one duffel.

2. If you are on a ​base camping​ trip, you may pack things in a duffel bag instead of a backpack and should bring a smaller backpack (school backpack is perfect!) for daytime excursions. A frame backpack is not necessary! ​Due to limited resources, we are not able to lend out backpacks for base camping trips.

4. If you are on a ​community engagement​ trip, bring one pair of jeans and shirts that are durable and you don’t mind getting dirty. Your exact projects have yet to be determined, so flexibility is important!

5. Most importantly, ​hiking boots/athletic shoes must be broken in prior to coming on AESOP.​ Brand new shoes cause blisters and serious foot pain, and nothing hurts more than hiking all day with blisters. Please make sure you break your shoes in properly before arriving on campus! What’s a good way to break in your hiking boots? Take them on a few walks around the neighborhood or around your home. Sure, you may look a bit silly, but it will be totally worth it in the end. Trust us!