Suggested Packing List
Limited space on the ship and helicopter requires that we be creative in our packing. You will receive a ‘Schools on Board’ duffle bag and we ask that you limit yourself to this bag (plus carry one carry-on). Please try to be efficient in your packing.
Think of this as a camping trip. Some of our activities will be outside on the deck and off the ship, doing fieldwork with scientists. One helpful hint from the on-board scientists is to think about ‘layering’ when you are packing – having the option to add or remove layers based on weather conditions. The goal is to keep the body warm and minimize sweating and avoid shivering. Avoid loose clothes and jewelry, which can both lead to accidents i.e baggy pants, extra-large t-shirts, scarves etc.
To ensure an acceptable safety standard, Schools on Board will provide you with a Mustang Floater suit and hardhat for the duration of the field program. Both of these items are required whenever you are on the deck or go off the ship. You are required to wear a pair of steel toe shoes/boots – this item is your responsibility. Let us know if you cannot get these in your community and we can pick them up for you in Winnipeg.
Suggested list: Remember Comfort not Fashion!!
1 light parka or 1 windbreaker/raincoat – preferably one with a fleece or one that fits a sweater and is water resistant
***Average daily temperature in Inuvik for Sept is 3.7°C and in Oct -8.2°C
***Check the weather in Kuglukuk and Inuvik the week before departure to ensure you have the proper outer clothing.
2 pair of pants – one that is casual (i.e. not jeans), for attending special events
2 long sleeve cotton shirts
2 t-shirts
1 sweatshirt, sweater, or fleece.
Undergarments (for duration)
Lightweight long underwear (tops and bottoms)
1 set sleepwear – you will be sharing accommodations throughout the trip.
wool socks and Cotton socks (for duration) - think layers!
2 pair good quality gloves/mitts – insulated and waterproof/resistant
2 pair small set of gloves to wear inside larger gloves
1 hat or toque
chapstick for lips
1 pair comfortable shoes for inside the ship; avoid footwear that is slippery on wet surfaces
1 pair steel-toe shoes/boots – required by the coast guard for being on the deck
Binoculars for spotting wildlife (optional)
Personal hygiene items – toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap etc.
Feminine hygiene products (if necessary)
Hairdryer – if desired
Spending money – cash to spend at the canteen
Alarm clock – important item
Digital Camera – compact point-and-shoot type (phone cameras will not work for photography session; your school may have one you can borrow)
Extra batteries or battery charger for camera
A field notebook (journal) will be provided.
Memory stick - one 2GB will be provided
Laptop – very useful to have - bring at your own risk (optional)
Contact lens and eyeglasses if required – bring spare pair if you have.
Sunglasses
Water bottle – will be provided
Medication.... bring extra - the nearest drugstore is very far away!
Pins/souvenir or other small item (ie pen, sticker, postcard, bookmark) from your province, community, or school, to exchange with other participants during our ‘community exchange’
Something for seasickness (ie. Gravol, ‘patch’, or natural products) if you are prone to, or worried about getting seasick – talk to your doctor about the ‘patch’. We have used Transderm-V (patch). This product is available without a prescription, but you should still consult your doctor as there are side effects. If you live in a remote community and are having difficulty getting these items contact our office (204-272-1542) and we will assist you.
***Official pieces of identification – ie birth certificate and health card, drivers’ licenses – this will be required to board the airplane at larger airports.
***Mailing list including your school, sponsors (ask your principal or teacher), and other individuals who supported you – we are having special postcards made that you will be able to send from the ship – each person will receive 15 cards.
And last but not least, don’t forget to bring a good supply of energy, and enthusiasm!
Happy packing!