Books
The following textbook is required for most field camps:
- Compton, R.R. Geology in the Field (1985 edition). Available on Amazon for approximately $19 in paperback or digital format.
Field Equipment & Tools
- Brunton compass (or equivalent) — may be borrowed from department
- GPS unit — may be borrowed from department
- Rock hammer (geologist’s pick style)
- Hand lens (10× magnification minimum)
- Magnet (for identifying magnetic minerals)
- Acid bottle with dilute HCl (for carbonate testing)
- Hard-covered field notebooks (not spiral-bound)
- Pencils and pens (waterproof ink preferred)
- Map board or clipboard
Drafting Supplies
- Drafting pens (0.25, 0.5, 0.7 mm)
- Protractor and compass (drafting)
- Engineer’s scale rule (metric for international camps)
- Colored pencils (full set, including standard geological colors)
- Graph paper (metric and standard grid)
- T-square or drafting triangle (optional)
- Drafting board (optional)
Field Clothing
Ankle-high, waterproof hiking boots are mandatory. Lightweight trainers or trail shoes are not appropriate for field geology work.
- Sturdy ankle-high boots, waterproof (GoreTex preferred)
- At least 4–6 pairs of wool or synthetic hiking socks
- Rain jacket and rain pants (or gaiters)
- Rain hat or wide-brim hat
- Warm fleece or insulating jacket (for cool mornings and evenings)
- Long-sleeve shirts (sun protection)
- Long trousers (durable, quick-dry fabric)
- Shorts (for warmer days)
- Sunglasses (UV-rated)
- Work gloves (optional but useful)
Laptop Computer
A personal laptop computer is required for report writing, data analysis, and use of software such as ArcGIS, Petrel, or other field-relevant programs. Ensure your laptop is charged and backed up before camp begins.
Bedding & Lodging Items
Requirements vary by camp:
- Dormitory/motel camps: Bedding is typically provided. Bring a pillow if preferred.
- Camping camps: A four-season tent, sleeping bag rated to at least 30°F (−1°C), and sleeping pad are required. Check your specific camp instructions for temperature ratings.
Personal Items
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 minimum, broad-spectrum)
- Insect repellent
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Personal medications (sufficient supply for the full camp duration)
- First aid basics (blister pads, bandages, ibuprofen)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack (minimum 2 liter capacity)
- Digital camera or smartphone (for field photography)
- Binoculars (optional but useful for distance outcrop reading)
- Small daypack or field vest
Note: International camps may require additional items such as a European electrical power adapter, passport, travel insurance documentation, and local currency. Your camp-specific equipment list, distributed approximately 30 days before departure, will include all requirements for your location.