Packing for Pennsic

by Joshua ibn-Eleazar ha-Shalib

Your War will be much more pleasant if you're properly equipped.  I
forget things unless I start a packing list several days or even weeks
in advance, so to get you started (especially if this is your first
Pennsic), here's my first draft.

Getting In: travellers' checks, proof of membership, photo ID, waiver,
preregistration confirmation, directions

Basic Camp Equipment: tent, stakes, ground cloth, flags to prevent
tripping over stakes and ropes, mallet, waterproofing, tent repair kit,
pillow, sleeping bag/sheets & blanket, air mattress/cot/straw tick,
water barrel, chairs/benches, table, flashlight, matches,
candle-lantern, candles, fire extinguisher, water bucket

Food & related stuff: cooking pots, cooking implements, pot-holder,
feast gear, dishwashing soap, towels, scrubbers, drink mixes, snacks
that don't need cooking or refrigeration

First Aid & Avoidance Thereof: waterskin, sunscreen, broad-brimmed hat,
insect repellent, warm cloak, sturdy walking shoes, bandages, burn
cream, itch cream, antibiotics, pain reliever, moleskin, Ace bandage,
tweezers, prescription medicines, soap, shampoo, washcloth, toothbrush
& other personal toiletries

Garb: several changes, for both hot and cold weather, in layers so you
can add and subtract during the day.  Bring both court garb and
"grungewear" in which you can build fires and wash dishes.

Hobbies and Games: armor, weapons, musical instruments, cards, camera,
calligraphy supplies, dice, whatever you need for your favorite
pastimes.


from the July 1996 Seahorse