5 Things to Do Before The National Jamboree

It’s hard to believe, but the 2017 National Jamboree is less than a month out. If you’re heading to Scouting’s main event in the hills of West Virginia, (or even if you’re still on the fence about making the trip as a visitor to spend a day or two at the Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve), here are the top five things to do in the coming weeks:

1. Finish the registration process. If you’re registered as a staff member, but you haven’t paid your fees in full or submitted your medical forms, now is the time to do so! To find out what still needs to be submitted, visit the jamboree registration site and log-in to your account.

2. Stay connected. If you don’t share your jamboree memories with your friends and family members on social media, did they really happen? (Of course they did, but sharing your images and videos with the #2017Jambo hashtag — and seeing those of other attendees — just makes it more fun! Plus, with the official app, you’ll be able to stay up to date on the latest announcements and program developments.) Follow along here: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat (jambo2017).

3. Be prepared. The days are long at the jamboree and the weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you’re ready for anything! Load the essentials in your daypack: water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, hat, personal medications, and lunch/snacks. (Remember: If you’re a staffer and you skip breakfast in the morning, you’ll also be skipping lunch, as well, since lunches are picked up at the Camp Echo dining hall!). Don’t have everything on the list? No worries — visit ScoutStuff.org and get geared up!

4. Learn how to pack. Your jamboree duffle, that is. Now that you have all of your gear purchased and sorted, learn how to make the best use of space from a real pro: Eagle Scout, mountaineer, and 2017 Jamboree Ambassador Matt Moniz.

5. Visit for the day. If you’re not going as part of a council contingent, go for the day (or two or three) with a jamboree visitor’s day pass! There are lots of event and activity options for those who live within driving distance of the Summit Bechtel Reserve, so don’t miss out on the fun!