Below is a packing list of what to bring to basic training. Basically, all of the your civilian items that you bring will be used by you until you are issued your gear. At that point, 99% of your civilian items are taken and locked away until the end of Basic Training. Print the list out below and use it as a checklist before you go!
What to bring to Basic Training
Note: All items must fit into the Army FSP Bag or small airline approved “carry on” suitcase or gym bag.
Soldiers traveling from overseas locations should add 1 change of clothing and underwear (same guidance as above, extra shoes and extra coat not needed)
| ITEM | MALE | FEMALE |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing (Casual and Comfortable): | ||
| ❏ Shirt or blouse (no obscene graphics)(no halter tops or cut-off T-shirts) | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Slacks or Jeans (no shorts or cut-offs) | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Complete underwear (You’ll get a mini-physical on ship day, no thongs) | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Pair of comfortable, casual shoes suitable for walking and extended standing (no high heels) and socks | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Coat or Jacket (seasonal) | As Needed | As Needed |
| ❏ Bring change of underwear: (male- briefs, female – briefs and bras) white, black or neutral, no thongs | 2 | 2 |
| ❏ Bring Feminine Sanitary Items | – | As needed |
| ❏ White, calf-length athletic socks (no color bands, designs or logos) Additional socks will be purchased at the post exchange (PX) | 1 | 1 |
| Minimal Personal Hygiene Articles: (Travel-sized items) | ||
| ❏ Shampoo and conditioner (1 oz) | As needed | As needed |
| ❏ Soap (1 bar soap or 1oz liquid soap with a soap case) | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Anti-perspirant / deodorant (non-aerosol only) | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Toothbrush (with case) and toothpaste | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Disposable/safety shaving razor (non-electric) | 1 | 1 |
| ❏ Shaving cream (non-aerosol) | 1 | As Needed |
| ❏ Comb, brush, hair accessories (black or matching hair color) | As needed | As needed |
| Eyeglasses (IF prescribed. No faddish/stylish eyewear. Bring prescription if available) | ||
| All Important Documents (check with Recruiter), including: | ||
| Childhood and adolescent immunization records if available | ||
| Government-issued photo ID card | ||
| Marriage certificate, family birth certificates, and their SSN (if married or legally supporting) | ||
| Required prescription medications (in original pharmacy container) and/or a doctor’s prescription. | ||
| Be sure to have all copies of orders and documents issued by your unit Recruiter and/or MEPS. These orders must be delivered by you and by hand. Travel and meal tickets will be provided. | ||
| Financial | ||
| Not to exceed $50.00 in cash, Traveler’s Checks, or Money Orders | ||
| Checkbook and/or ATM card with access to direct deposit account for military pay | ||
| Misc. Item(s) | ||
| One lock (combination or padlock with two keys) Additional lock will be purchased at PX | ||
Alternatively, you can download a separate list of what to bring to basic training.
[download_form download=”bct-task-list” title=”Enter Your Email Address To Download the Task List!”]
