Basic Training packing list

Use this checklist to make sure you pack everything you'll need at BCT. Keep in mind that all of your personal belongings must be able to fit into one medium-sized gym bag—so make sure none of that space is taken up by anything that will get confiscated at BCT.

WHAT TO BRING

Personal documents (5 copies of each):

• Certified copy of high school diploma or GED certificate
• Certified copy of college transcript(s)
• Original Social Security card
• Valid driver's license with photo or other valid photo ID
• Valid driver's license, if required by your MOS (be sure it's valid 30 days past your MOS training)
• ATM or debit card for SurePay account
• Certified copy of marriage license
• Certified copy of divorce decree
• Certified copy of birth certificates for children under 18
• Certified copy of legal papers for any family members in your household for whom you have physical custody and/or financial responsibility
• Eyeglass or contact lens prescription
• Letter from doctor listing all required prescription drugs, including birth control pills
• Lease agreement or rental contract
• Any other legal document that may affect your pay
• If a spouse is in the military: spouse's name, Social Security number, and military address

Military documents (5 copies of each):

All documents received from your unit RRNCO and/or MEPS, including:

• Military orders
• Travel and meal tickets (supplied by MEPS on the day you report for shipping to BT)
• Copy of DA Form 4187 showing promotion and/or Stripes for Buddies eligibility

Additional documents, including:

• Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)
• Copies of your SF1199A (direct deposit form), signed by a bank official, with your account and routing numbers filled in
• Telephone number of the Liaison Officer/NCO at Battalion Reception

Clothing:

• 2-day supply of casual, comfortable clothing
• 1 pair of comfortable shoes
• 6 pairs of white, calf-length athletic socks
• Running shoes
• Shower shoes
• Eyeglass band (if you wear eyeglasses)
• 3 pairs of white underwear (men)
• Athletic supporter (men)

Additional clothing/personal items for women:

• 3 pairs of underwear (white, black or beige)
• 3 bras (white, black or beige)
• 1 full slip (white, black or beige)
• 1 pair flesh-tone nylons/pantyhose
• Feminine hygiene products

Toiletries:

• Disposable/safety razor with blades
• Shaving cream
• Toothbrush with case
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Hairbrush or 6-inch black comb
• Antiperspirant
• Soap and soap case

Miscellaneous:

• Luggage (1 small suitcase or duffel bag)
• 2 washcloths and towels
• 2 locks (combination or padlock with 2 keys)
• $25–50 in cash, traveler's checks or money orders
• Long-distance calling cards
• A small box of laundry detergent
• Stamps
• Stationery
• Insect repellent
• Holy Scripture (Bible, Koran, etc.), if desired

DO NOT BRING:

• Family members
• Pets
• Weapons
• Privately owned vehicles
• Steel hair picks
• Pocket knives
• Obscene/pornographic material
• Playing cards
• Dice
• Dominoes
• Tobacco products
• Batteries (except size D)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Non-prescription drugs
• Perfume or cologne
• Jewelry, watches or other valuables
• Electronic devices (CD players, cameras, laptops, etc.)
• Personal reading materials (magazines, books, etc.)