Gear Guide: Buying Essentials for PT, ROTC, and Boot Camp
A common question people ask us is "What supplies do I need to buy for military boot camp or ROTC?" The military likes to stick to the bare minimum, so the list certainly isn't long. It's just the basics. Here's a guide to help you figure out what is essential for military training, any basic school, or a camp with PT (physical training). Keep in mind that the military will supply you with a list, and you should stick to that list explicitly.
The Difference Between ROTC and Basic Military Recruits
ROTC works a little differently because you start the program in high school or college. Each branch of the military has its own physical fitness minimum requirements that recruits must achieve. They also must adhere to rigorous academic standards to receive funding for their college degree and a stipend.
Once they complete their degree, the graduate is obligated to serve a minimum amount of time, usually divided up between active service and reserve service. The primary difference is that once the ROTC graduate leaves college, they begin their service at the officer level. For all of that hard work, the ROTC cadet doesn't have to work their way up through the ranks. So, ROTC recruits don't go through boot camp but receive similar training.
Basic Training Essentials
Each branch of the military has its own specific requirements, but, in general, these include:
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Padlock or combination lock - The military requires one lock. It can be a padlock that has two keys or a combination lock.
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Clothes - We suggest casual clothing that you feel comfortable in, as well as white calf-length socks and underwear. Bring a pair of running shoes and eyeglasses if you wear them. Additionally, women need bras, sports bras, and hair bands that match their hair.
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Money - The military allows you to bring a small amount of money, either traveler's checks, cash, or money orders. The type of money and maximum amount depend on what branch of the military you are in.
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Toiletries - The military requires certain toiletries, including a toothbrush and case, toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, soap and a case, comb or hairbrush, one towel, one washcloth, deodorant, shower shoes, a razor and blades or disposable razors, shaving cream, and, for women, feminine hygiene products. Remember, if you're flying to your boot camp location, you can only have 3.4 oz or less of any liquid toiletries in each container per TSA regulations.
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Your military orders - Don't forget your orders! Bring all copies of the documents you received from the Military Entrance Processing Station or your recruiter. Keep this documentation on your person while traveling and hand deliver them to your boot camp training site. Ensure that this documentation is secure as you travel since the paperwork has your personal information on it.
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Other necessary documents - Other documents needed are a valid state ID or driver's license, your Social Security card, and your immunization records. You also need a direct deposit form, GED or high school diploma, proof of citizenship if necessary, and certified copies or your original certificate of marriage or divorce. If you have children, you also need copies of their birth certificates, prescriptions for any medicine, certified or original ROTC paperwork if it applies, and a copy of your rental agreement or lease for your residence.
This list may not include all of the items that each branch of the armed services requires. However, this does give you an idea of the necessary military supplies to purchase. Buy a useful gear bag to transport all of your items for convenience.
What You Shouldn't Bring to Boot Camp or Basic Training
While we're on the topic of what essentials to bring to boot camp, let's talk about what you can't bring to boot camp. Some of the items on this list might seem humorous, but, since they're on the list, someone must have tried to bring them along at some point.
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Pets
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Family
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Alcohol
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Expensive electronics and personal items, such as jewelry, cameras, laptops, phones, etc.
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Drug paraphernalia
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Nonprescription drugs
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Pornographic, obscene, or offensive material
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Weapons - not even pocket knives
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Tobacco products or cigarettes
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Dominoes, playing cards, or dice
Boot camp is an intense, tough process both mentally and physically. The field exercises, PT, and classroom work are designed to make recruits dependable and strong. However, while it may be strenuous, many military members value the experience for the rest of their lives. It truly changes some people for the better and teaches everyone the value or routine, discipline, and integrity.