Making the decision to join up as a cadet is one that you will not regret. A lot of people nowadays are not finding the opportunities to make the most out of life in the wider world or need something extra to make getting into college that little bit easier. Taking on the responsibility associated with becoming a cadet means understanding what is required of you mentally and physically. Being prepared with the right equipment is the best first step towards understanding the requirements of your new position. The following list is a guide of essential items every cadet should have and some extras that will make your camping expeditions that bit more enjoyable. See also our cadet rank slides
What does a Cadet Need?
Cadet Boots
The most important – and always required! - part of any cadet’s kit, both new and experienced, is their footwear. The majority of a cadet’s activities are physically demanding or take place in different terrains across the country. Having the correct type of cadet boots will ensure that your feet stay dry, comfortable, and safe. You cannot just wear a standard pair of trainers. Why?
Military boots UK are specially crafted to include heavy-duty soles that are more resistant to damage, wear, and breaking than the soft, thin soles on other commonly worn shoes. The demand on your feet when navigating, tackling long expeditions, and taking part in military drills is more intense than you may first think. The right cadet boots can save you a lot of problems in the long run as they are waterproof and provide ankle support. They are the only real investment of money you will be asked to make towards your cadets training and activities. Don’t let yourself fall behind the pack – choose only the best boots.
At Cadets UK, we supply cadets, police, and army recruits with various kinds of boots, including Lowa military boots, police officer boots, and high-quality Swat Boots. No matter the boots you need, we can supply them.
Military Rucksacks
How are you going to carry all of your belongings around with you? Definitely not in your arms. Military rucksacks are a standard-issue item that are multi-purpose and suitable for more than just camping. Army recruits often use military rucksacks on endurance drills, filled to the brim with heavy items to weigh them down and test their strength and willpower.
Military backpacks are made with heavy-duty Cordura material that is durable and resistant to the worst of the British weather. As a cadet, you will usually be issued a military rucksack on day one alongside your uniform, though it never hurts to invest in one for yourself should you need a heavy-duty bag for all of your belongings when your hikes and drills are over.
Expedition Extras
During your time in the cadets you will be invited to take part in multiple expedition trips throughout the year, and you could even venture abroad. Spending a few days in the countryside getting to grips with fieldcraft and the Countryside Code is a great adventure, but with our rainy and unpredictable weather we recommend packing some extra equipment in order to make the most of your trip.
Weatherproof Clothing
Despite a cadet being given an issued uniform, it never hurts to have extra weatherproof clothing at hand to keep yourself prepared for any eventuality. Army recruits are forced to endure cold, wind, and rain on a daily basis. As a cadet, your strenuous activities may not go as far as theirs do, but your uniform will need to be weatherproof to some degree.
To stay out of the cold, always invest in army gloves and hats. Your uniform should keep your body dry and your cadet boots will ensure your toes are warm. Gloves and hats make sure that you can be at your most comfortable throughout the day. Stay warm and keep your energy levels at their highest to get the most enjoyment out of your outdoor activities. You won’t regret it!
Survival Aids
No matter where you are, there could be potential for things to go wrong. Being prepared for any eventuality with your clothing and ration packs is smart, but sometimes these items may not be enough for longer periods than 24 hours. It can be the little things that save lives, as every cadet will learn throughout their training.
Having survival aids in your rucksack could be the difference between injury, sickness, or worse. Did you know that a simple emergency foil blanket helps the body to retain up to 90% of its body heat? They weigh next to nothing but are essential in most large rescue missions across the country. Keeping warm by creating a fire without fuel, too, is another important skill to learn. A simple piece of flint and magnesium have enough potential to create a contained fire a group can stay warm around or boil water to make it safe to drink. Consider the essentials – and be prepared.
Army Ration Packs
In the cold British winter nights, there’s nothing like a warm meal to bring you joy after a long day advancing your army cadet skills. If you want a real taste of the military lifestyle, you can make your camping adventures with your fellow cadets more exciting with army ration packs. There is often a sense of excitement in being able to eat food in the most unconventional places, and having a selection of camping food packs to share with new friends on cadet camping activities is never a bad experience.
There are various different foods that are sealed in army ration packs with extended shelf lives when compared to the fresh alternatives. Certain ration packs can last 10 years from the date they were sealed – making them a great investment to have as emergency food in a car if you do not eat them while camping. Keeping your energy levels up for drills and walking is important, so always be sure to have three warm meals a day.
Take On The Cadets Challenge
Becoming a cadet could be the best decision you ever make. With fun activities and plenty of like minded friends to make, there is no reason not to sign up. Keep in mind the essentials you will be required to have for your first day, prepare for hikes and camping trips, and make the most of it with help from Cadets UK cadet shop supplies.
