Backpacking and the Trail to Eagle
Backpacking is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Backpacking Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Backpacking. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do the following:
- a.Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while backpacking.
- b.Show that you know first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while backpacking.
- 2
Plan a backpacking trip including map, route, menu, and gear list.
- 3
Describe the importance of following Leave No Trace principles while backpacking.
- 4
Explain the importance of using a topographic map and compass while backpacking. Take a hike of at least 2 miles using a topographic map and compass.
- 5
Take three backpacking trips of at least three days each, covering a total distance of at least 30 miles. Sleep each night in a shelter you have carried.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Backpacking Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Backpacking, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Backpacking is usually earned summer camp or outdoor event. Summer camp and merit badge weekends are the most common places to finish it.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a challenging badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 7 Backpacking requirements for you.
Backpacking Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Backpacking merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Backpacking is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Backpacking merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Backpacking in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Backpacking merit badge?
Backpacking is most often earned summer camp or outdoor event. Any registered merit badge counselor for Backpacking can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Backpacking merit badge have?
Backpacking has 5 main requirements with 2 sub-requirements, for 7 items in total.
