#17 - Packing list

There are several versions of the BCT "packing list" (what recruits should bring to basic training) floating around in print and on the internet. Traditional wisdom maintains that the less you bring, the better off you will be. Drill sergeants have a tendency to take things away from recruits during a process called "shakedown". Some folks try to sneak in items like cell phones, electronics, tobacco, etc. - I wouldn't recommend it! Recruits are also made to do exercises carrying around their heavy bags, running up and down the stairs and whatnot, so it's best not to show up with a huge suitcase.

This is what I will use as my base packing list. It's from the Fort Jackson website at http://www.jackson.army.mil/BCT/What_to_Expect.htm. I will only take a few other additional items not listed. Before I ship for basic, I will post a photo and list of my items, as well as give info after BCT on just what I was allowed to keep after the infamous shakedown. Hopefully this will help others heading for basic in the future to know what to expect...

What to Bring

Clothing
One set of casual, comfortable clothing *No halter tops or ragged shorts
Three sets of underwear (White)
One pair of white, calf-length athletic socks *No color bands, designs or logos
One pair of comfortable athletic shoes
Eyeglasses *No faddish/stylish eyewear
Athletic supporter (males only)
Luggage should be limited to one small suitcase or gym bag
Two locks (combination or padlock with 2 keys)
Toiletries
Disposable / safety razor with blades
Shaving cream (optional for women)
Toothbrush with clear carrying case
Hairbrush or 6" black comb
Shampoo
Two washcloths and one brown towel
Non-aerosol antiperspirant
Black shower shoes
Toothpaste
Dental Floss
Soap with clear carrying case
Nail clippers
Money*
A minimum $10.00 - but No More Than $50.00 in Cash
Traveler's Checks or Money Orders
ATM Card or Personal Checks
*You will be given an advance pay for any required purchases.

For Women Only
Undergarments:
8 underwear (cotton recommended, White or Neutral)
6 sports bras
flesh tone nylons
Hairstyles not appropriate in uniform: ponytail, extreme bouffant styles, exotic upsweeps, and corkscrew or "corn-row" styles.
You may wear quarter-inch or smaller pearl, gold, silver, or diamond spherical earrings, only with Army "dress" uniforms.

Documents You Need To Bring with You
Social Security Card, Driver's License, Direct Deposit Form - 1199 signed by a bank official, or the name, address and account number and routing number of your financial institution. If applicable, notarized copies of your Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, or Separation Order; notarized copies of Birth Certificates for all children under 18; Affidavit of Support for Parents; court documents, and direct deposit forms if ordered to pay spousal and/or child support. Ask your recruiter for full details. Proof of Citizenship (aliens only). The name, Social Security Number, and Military Address of your spouse if you are married to another service member. Copies of your lease agreement or rental contract for any dependents residing outside of government quarters. Documentation of any ROTC experience, and college transcripts.

Your Orders
Be sure to have all copies of your orders and documents issued by your unit recruiter or the Military Entrance Processing Station. These orders must be hand-delivered by you. Travel and meal tickets will be provided.

What NOT to Bring
Prohibited Items, Do not bring these items with you to Fort Jackson:
Weapons
Drugs or narcotics
Alcoholic beverages and empty containers
Counterfeit money
Tobacco products
Pornographic items
Cell phones, pagers, and other electronic communication devices
CD players and walkman-type devices
Body jewelry
Contact lenses

Retained Items, These items should not be brought with you, but may be turned in for safe keeping at the OWNER'S RISK
Knives
Gambling devices
Suggestive items and pictures
Un-opened over-the-counter drugs
These items should be retained by individual
Prescription drugs with a written prescription