Do I need to buy all the gear on the packing list to join Scouts?
For the most part No; however, at all outdoor meetings a water bottle, a backpack, and rain gear are required. The rest of the gear can wait until it is needed.
Is my school backpack ok?
For weekly meetings, and day hikes a school backpack should be fine; But a dedicated scouts bag is a handy way to keep all your scouts stuff ready to go. A scouts bag is also a good emergency kit.
Other questions? Email the Troop Contact