Packing List

It is essential to have adequate clothing for outdoor studies. Temperatures in Jackson are extremely variable. Freezing temperatures and snow can occur in October. Wearing multiple layers of clothing is advisable since it traps more warm air and allows for versatility in adjusting to changing weather conditions. Whenever possible, please avoid cotton clothing for outdoor wear – it gets wet and stays wet – opt for synthetic fabrics in t­shirt, pants, socks, etc. What to pack: 
  • 1 solid metal or plastic water bottle (1 liter capacity)
  • 1 pair athletic sneakers with sturdy soles and laces
  • 1 pair comfortable, waterproof, broken­in hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes
  • 6 pair thick socks (including 3 pair wool or synthetic material)
  • Warm winter coat (wool, down, or fiberfill)
  • Waterproof jacket with hood that fits over other layers
  • 1 pair waterproof rain pants
  • 2 warm wool or fleece sweaters
  • 2 long sleeve shirts or turtlenecks
  • 4 t­shirts
  • 1 winter hat (wool or fleece)
  • 1 baseball cap or sunhat
  • 1 pair warm winter gloves (wool/fleece/goretex)
  • 3 pair of pants (2 for work outdoors)
  • 1 pair long underwear (top and bottom)
  • several changes of underwear
  • pajamas
  • sleeping bag (must compress to small size)
  • 1 twin flat sheet
  • 1 pillowcase
  • 1 towel and washcloth
  • toothbrush and small toothpaste
  • small container of shampoo

  • small soap
  • sunglasses
  • sunscreen and lip balm
  • Money - $40­-50 for dinner each way and souvenir
  • a payment of $50 for baggage fees (BCS Business Office will contact families directly)
  • All items must fit into ONE large bag to check.
  • Students may bring one bookbag with two straps as their carry­on luggage.
  • Students are responsible for carrying their own checked bag and carry­on.
  • Please have a name tag, address, and phone number on both of your bags before we leave.
  • Optional: book, magazine, snacks for flight, journal, ipod or music player for plane (with headphones) 

Please do not bring: 

  • clothes that cannot get dirty 
  • valuable jewelry 
  • liquids in your carry­on bag as this will delay the group. 
  • food for consumption beyond flights ­ you cannot keep any food in your bunks at TSS. 
  • DVD players, laptops, iPads, game consoles 
  • items not on packing list 

Cell phones and all other electronic devices will be collected upon arrival at the Teton Science School. 

How to Prepare Your Child for the Tetons 

Start looking into gear to borrow so your child will be comfortable, warm, and dry, even in inclement weather. 

Plan occasions for your child to break­in their hiking shoes or boots. They should not feel any “hot spots” or irritated areas on their feet when they spend an hour or more in their shoes. 

Prospect Park Challenge: Encourage your child to take the Prospect Park Challenge: all students should be able to walk the 3.5 mile loop around Prospect Park at a good pace without taking significant breaks. Students should do this walk in their hiking sneakers or boots with their wool socks! If they struggle to complete this challenge, students should do it regularly over the summer to build their muscle tone and stamina. 

Outdoor Gear Resources