What to Bring
Here is a brief list of items that we recommend Boys Staters bring with them. Keep in mind that you will be sharing a dorm room with another citizen of Boys State, so try not to bring any particularly large items.
Essentials:
- A Fan - It tends to get hot in the rooms, even at night, so make sure to bring a fan with you!
- Clothes - You will be at Boys State for a week, we recommend you bring enough clothes to last you that long. There are sports activities and swimming available during the course of the week. Please leave clothes that may be considered offensive at home.
- Shirts - Bring short sleeved shirts for the warm weather, and one or two long sleeved shirts in case we experience a cold or rainy day.
- Dress Clothes - We strongly urge you to bring dress clothes such as a suit, or slacks and an appropriate shirt, especially if you plan to run for higher offices such as governor.
- Footwear - Socks and comfortable shoes, and sandals for the warm weather.
- Bathroom Items - soap, shampoo, deodorant, razor, wash cloths, toothbrush, and etc.
- Pillows & Linens - These items are not provided, you must bring your own.
- Alarm Clock - Missing morning colors is FORBIDDEN!
- Writing materials - At some point in the week you will probably want to take notes at a meeting or seminars.
Optionals:
- Money - There is a convenience store on campus that sells items that you may need during the course of the week (snacks, paper, etc). We recommend that students do not bring a large amount of money, because you are already provided with food. However, there is a bank kept by the American Legion to store your money and other valuables securely.
- Computer Equipment - Laptops and printers can be very useful items to have at Boys State, but keep in mind that we are not responsible for the loss or damage of any items. Internet access is not provided in the housing buildings, however there is a computer lab available for use during the week.
- Cell Phone - You will not be allowed to use your cell phone during scheduled activities except for free time, and we will ask you to leave it in your room at all other times.
Discouraged:
- TV's, video games, etc - You are expected to attend all scheduled events while at Boys State, and you should not have enough time to use these items. If you do have enough free time to use these items during scheduled events, please see your counselor.
What you can't bring
- Campaign materials - You are not allowed to bring preprinted/finished election campaign materials with you for use. You may prepare election strategies however.
The American Legion and Northwood University assume no responsibility for vandalism, theft, or damage to any items attendees bring with them or purchase while at Boys State.