How Much Does Scouting Cost?

Scouting does charge fees for membership, events and trips. Council and unit fundraising will help with those costs including Popcorn and Camp Card sales, and will give a Scout the opportunity to earn the money he needs to participate in summer camp or other programs. However, Rainbow Council believes all young people should participate and enjoy Scouting programs regardless of circumstance. If you would like more information about scholarships, please contact us by email or by phone at (815)942-4450. Below is a list of basic needs to start a young person in each Scouting program. Items are available at council Scout Shops. Before purchasing any items, speak with your unit leader and he or she will be able to tell you more about any specific uniform or equipment guidelines for the pack, troop or crew. Ready to get started? Locate a Scouting unit near you.

Cub Scouts

Note: some individual units charge a unit fee Optional items: uniform, handbook, Boys’ Life subscription, camping equipment (most Cub Scout camping does not require a special equipment purchase; talk with your child’s Cubmaster before purchasing anything)

Scouts BSA

Note: some individual units charge a unit fee Optional items: uniform, handbook, Boys’ Life subscription, camping equipment (your child will need some camping gear; talk with your child’s Scoutmaster before purchasing anything)

Venturing

Note: some individual units charge a unit fee Optional items: uniform, camping equipment (Venture crews select their own uniform; talk with your youth’s Venture Crew adviser before buying anything