If you’re headed to Army basic training there are a few things that you’ll want to make sure you bring with you when you leave. Below you’ll find an overview of the items as displayed on GoArmy.com to use as your Army basic training packing list.
What to bring for Army Basic Training
Clothing
You’ll want to pack these items in a small suitcase or gym bag – along with the rest of your belongings. In case your uniform fitting goes awry you’ll have a clean set of civvies to change into while you wait.
- One-day supply of casual, comfortable clothing (no halter-tops or ragged shorts)
- Three sets of underwear (white)
- One pair of white, calf-length athletic socks (no color bands, designs or logos). Additional socks can be purchased at the post exchange (PX)
- A pair of comfortable shoes
- Eyeglasses (no stylish eyewear)
- Luggage should be limited to one small suitcase or gym bag
Lock
During Army basic training you’ll be securing your belongings everyday in a wall or fool locker – if not you’ll suffer the consequences.
- One lock (combination or padlock with two keys). Additional locks can be purchased at the PX.
Toiletries
As you run low on these supplies during Army basic training you’ll be given some opportunities to purchase more at the PX. What’s important is having the basics to get you through the first few weeks.
- Disposable/safety razor with blades
- Shaving cream (optional for women)
- Toothbrush with case
- Hairbrush or 6″ black comb
- One washcloth and towel
Anti-perspirant - Shower shoes
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss
- Shampoo
- Soap and soap case
Money
You’ll get an Eagle Cash Card during reception, which is where your money earned during training will be loaded to. But, depending on when you start training you may not get a paycheck for a few weeks. Having some money beforehand will allow you to get any items you may need in the beginning and hold you over until you get paid.
- $10-$50 in cash
- Traveler’s Checks or Money Orders (Personal checks are not recommended because of limited check-cashing facilities.)
Documents you may need
The below documents are crucial for you to pack before heading to basic training. We recommend placing them all together in a large document envelope. These documents will be needed during reception, so if you want to start training on time make sure you have them all.
- Social Security card
- Valid driver’s license or current state identification card
- A direct deposit form from your checking account signed by a bank official, or the name, address, account number and routing number of your financial institution (if applicable)
- Original or certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree or separation order (if applicable)
- Original or certified copies of birth certificates of children under 18; affidavit of support from parents; court documents and direct deposit forms if ordered to pay spousal and/or child support (if applicable)
- Proof of citizenship (if you were not born in the United States)
- If you are married to a service member in the military, you need to have the name, Social Security number and military address of your spouse
- Copies of your lease agreement or rental contract for any dependents residing outside of government quarters (if applicable)
- Original or certified ROTC documentation (if applicable)
- Original college transcripts; GED or high school diploma
Your Orders
- Be sure to have all copies of orders and documents issued by your unit recruiter and/or MEPS. These orders must be delivered by you and by hand. Travel and meal tickets will be provided.
Get a printable version of the Army Basic Training Packing List 2019 for when you start packing your bags.
What not to bring to Army basic training
Some of these items may seem like a no-brainer, or not a big deal to bring – but trust us you’ll be better off if you leave these at home.
- Expensive personal items: cellphones, cameras, jewelry and expensive electronics are hard to safeguard during training.
- Family
- Pets
- Privately owned vehicles
- Nonprescription drugs or drug paraphernalia
- Steel hair picks
- Razor blades
- Weapons of any type, including pocket knives
- Obscene or pornographic material
- Alcoholic beverages
- Playing cards/dice/dominoes
- Cigarettes/tobacco products
- Batteries (except size “D”)
Want to know more about preparing for Army basic training? See what you need to know before you ship out.
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