Male and Female RTC Items

What to Bring to Navy Boot Camp

June 30th, 2008

Because storage space is extremely limited at Recruit Training Command (RTC), you should limit the amount of personal effects you bring, and keep luggage to a maximum of one small gym or travel bag. If you are reporting to RTC during winter months (October through April) wear warm outer clothing – it does get cold near the lake! Keep in mind that during your in-processing you will be required to mail any item not listed below, with your excess civilian clothing and personal effects, to your home at your own expense, or donate the stuff to charity. Personal items and clothing won’t be allowed to be stored at boot-camp.

Here is a list of stuff you can bring to Navy boot camp:

Note: At a designated time, you will be sent to the dispensary at RTC for medical evaluation.
Additional Items to Bring, if Applicable;

Females in-processing at Navy boot-camp

Females in-processing at Navy boot-camp

Females – To expedite your medical processing, if you have had a PAP smear/pelvic examination during the six months prior to leaving for RTC bring the test results with you. Additionally, if you’re currently using birth control pills, bring copies of exam records (in addition to the pills) specifying type(s) of birth control pills both presently and previously prescribed. You will receive a pregnancy test within three days of arrival at Recruit Training. If the test results are positive, you will be discharged.

Your hair – Female new recruits may travel to RTC with their hair styled as desired. The standard hair length for females may touch but not fall below a horizontal line level with the lower edge of the back of the uniform collar. Females will have their hair cut (styled) to military standards after reporting to RTC for a nominal fee.

Males will have their head shaved to a stubble length.

Items that will be sent home:

Non-prescription drugs/medications will be discarded and/or mailed home.
These include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Phisoderm, Phisohex, and similar products
  • Foot powders
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Motion sickness medication
  • Commercial sleeping aid
  • Decongestants
  • Acne medication
  • Antihistamines
  • Analgesics
  • Eyewash (with the exception of saline solution for contact lenses)
  • Sex-related materials (including diaphragms and condoms).


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110 Responses to “What to Bring to Navy Boot Camp”


  1. Maggie says:

    My husband is leaving for bootcamp shortly and after searching the RTC website and speaking with his recruiter, I am still confused as to who should have which documents. I understand that he needs to have the necessary papers to enroll me in DEERS and I also know that I must have these same documents when obtaining my military ID card while he’s away.

    Which one of us should have the originals and which one should have the certified copies of my social security card, marriage certificate, and birth certificate? I want to be sure he has what he needs. Would it be acceptable if I have the certified copies of those documents in addition to 2 forms of a photo ID? That way he can take the originals?

    Thanks for your help

  2. NCCM(ret) says:

    Maggie,

    He should bring the copies, you maintain the originals. Most of that documentation he will need should already a part of his record, but contact his recruiter to make sure what specific documents, if any, he may need to bring.

  3. Joseph says:

    Hello, I’m about to enlist, I was wondering if we can bring a wallet. It seems like we should be able to, but I’m not certain.

    Thank you

  4. NCCM(ret) says:

    Joseph,

    Yes, you can bring a wallet.

  5. Tyler says:

    Silly question, but in regards to the ring does it have to be a wedding ring or can it be any ring with a strong sentimental value attached to it?

  6. NCCM(ret) says:

    Tyler,

    A wedding ring.

    If you could bring and wear everything that has sentimental value, then you could bring your girlfriend… tis not the case. :)

  7. Jazmin says:

    so im just wondering can i wear my own hair in cornrows? it is really short and only goes to my ears. also if my hair is already short they won’t cut it again will they?

  8. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jazmin,

    They will want to see your hair at full length to determine if a hair cut is needed.

  9. Veronica says:

    Can we bring facial moisturizer ?

  10. NCCM(ret) says:

    Veronica,

    Don’t think that is going to fall into the “basic make-up” category.

  11. erin says:

    I was goining to cut my hair short like three inchs before I left. Is that ok?

  12. NCCM(ret) says:

    Erin,

    Yes, you can, of course, cut your hair before you go, but you will go to the beauty shop at boot-camp, sit in the chair, and the hair dresser will decide if more needs to be taken off.

  13. carol says:

    I have extremely curly hair. Will I be able to bring gel to bootcamp?

  14. NCCM(ret) says:

    Carol,

    I would not bring it, as the possibility of them making you throw it away is pretty high. I would stick to the list above.

  15. kayla says:

    Should i bring stuff like shampoo and conditioner? or would it be best not to

  16. Cynthia says:

    If someone has the chance could you put a link on here of a appropiate haircut for females. Im having a hard time finding a picture.

  17. NCCM(ret) says:

    Cynthia/Kayla,

    Basic toiletry and haircare items will be supplied. I added a picture to the post that will give you a good idea of the female hair length. Thanks for the suggestion!

  18. Deneen says:

    As far as bringing an address book do you need envenlopes and stamps or will they just make you mail that back home with your other stuff.

  19. NCCM(ret) says:

    Deneen, Cynthia, Kayla (you have a lot of email addresses…),

    Letter writing material will be available at RTC.

  20. dom says:

    im just wondering if dreads are an acceptable hair style?

  21. NCCM(ret) says:

    Dom,

    Not while in uniform.

  22. Daniel says:

    Hello,
    I am going to RTC in december. So I have two questions. The first is the watch. I’ve read on other websites that they will only let you have a watch if you ate given a senior recruit position. Is this true? If not any suggestions on what watch specifications I should look for?
    The second question is about outerwear. I see that you are to bring a light jacket or sweater, any suggestions on which? What kind of outerwear will they provide for the cold months?

    Thank you so much!
    Future Sailor Galbraith

  23. NCCM(ret) says:

    Future Sailor Galbraith,

    You can bring a watch, but like you have read elsewhere, it is a real possibility that you won’t be able to wear it unless you are in a position that requires it. You will have room to stow your watch, unless you have one like Flava Flav that is :)

    You will not wear your civilian jacket or coat while at RTC, you only need it to get there and until you get issued your uniform – it will more than likely be boxed up and mailed back home, or you can donate it to charity.

  24. Future Sailor Mammina says:

    Hey so, ive seen that we cant bring alot of things, but I am a female and I am leaving Feb 15, 2011 and my skin gets really dry (my face to be exact) so will they supply us with some kind facial moisturizer?

  25. NCCM(ret) says:

    Future Sailor Mammina,

    You will be supplied with basic toiletry items, including soap that may have a moisturizer in it. You will not have much time to sit in front of a mirror getting all fixed up. :)

  26. rachel says:

    i leave in less than a month, reading this answered some of questions i had thanks, but i have one question… i am not religious and i dont own one, so i was wondering is it mandatory to bring a bible?

    thanks! :)

  27. NCCM(ret) says:

    Rachel,

    Funny.

    Do well, and thank you in advance for your service!

  28. Court says:

    I have excema, I use special lotion/cream that is not prescribed by a doctor (but recommended). Will I be allowed to bring this lotion/cream?

  29. NCCM(ret) says:

    Court,

    Eczema is normally a disqualifying condition, if you received a waiver for it it is because your flare-ups are very infrequent and the affected area is small. How often do you require the lotion?

  30. Future sailor smith says:

    This is really a strange question but i’m reporting in december and i was wondering if at any point in inprocessing are females required to to take off their bra during the examinations? Thanks!

  31. shamika says:

    can i pull my hair back in a ponytail instead of cutting it

  32. NCCM(ret) says:

    Shamika,

    No.

  33. Jordan says:

    I had a sailor tell me last night that a girl fresh out of basic said they stopped cutting the girls hair a couple weeks ago and not a cut is not required. Is this true?

  34. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jordan,

    Over the last 30+ years, I have heard that many times – each time it has proven to be rumor/wishful thinking. I will follow up with this next week and get an official answer.

  35. Dan says:

    In regards to shaving everyday are we given anything for razor burn with our “basic toiletry items”? Is there a list somewhere stating what is included?

  36. NCCM(ret) says:

    Dan,

    Shaving cream?

  37. Nicole says:

    Is Eyeliner considered “basic makeup?” or will be thrown away?

  38. NCCM(ret) says:

    Nicole,

    “…face powder, blush, lipstick, eye shadow and mascara.”

    Eyeliner isn’t on the list, it may be discarded.

  39. Candice says:

    Hey I’m leaving in december 2011 .. do you advise me to get micro braids or wear a short weave

  40. NCCM(ret) says:

    Candice,

    I do not advise it.

  41. Candice says:

    Oh ok …why not … I herd it was actually a little better than having to deal with your own hair .. I have very kinki hair

  42. Nicole says:

    would it be possible to leave any makeup home & have my family mail it to me when it got closer to graduation?

  43. NCCM(ret) says:

    Nicole,

    It is possible, but I would ask your Recruit Division Commander (RDC) about that as graduation draws closer.

  44. Jhoser says:

    Hi, I have this bracelet made by my father which i have worn for almost a decade now. The problem is, it could not be taken off unless it is destroyed. Do you think they’d let me keep and wear it on boot camp?

  45. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jhoser,

    You would not be allowed to wear the bracelet during boot-camp.

  46. Ryan says:

    I notice it says bring a pair of athletic shoes, are these going to be sent home with my regular civilian clothing? or are they what i will be wearing during basic?

  47. NCCM(ret) says:

    Ryan,

    As long as they are not too flamboyant (flashing lights, etc. – if there is a question, have your Recruiter look at them), and they meet the requirements in the post, you will be able to wear the athletic shoes you bring.

  48. Randi says:

    If the men have an engagement ring are they allowed to wear that?

  49. NCCM(ret) says:

    Randi,

    No. “Wedding Ring, Watch, Religious Medallion”

  50. Austin says:

    NCCM,

    You were able to answer my question about the ID card during DEP so I was wondering if you could tell me what kind of underwear they will issue males (i.e. boxers or briefs).

  51. NCCM(ret) says:

    Austin,

    Briefs.

  52. Chelsea says:

    Can you bring a small book of pictures? I’ve heard you could but I’m not sure.

  53. NCCM(ret) says:

    Chelsea,

    You have very limited space; I suggest you make it part of your small address book.

  54. Future Sailor Anne says:

    I hate to be a pain but I have a few questions…

    I know that it says that we are allowed to bring a sports bra if we are bigger than a 40 DD, I am a 34 DD so does that still count?

    The other week my recruiter told me that women are allowed to wear “studs” in basic training…is that still accurate?

    If I don’t agree with shots due to religious belief’s, do i still have to get them?

  55. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Anne,

    Bring the sports bra.

    I don’t think you will be able to wear any earrings while in training.

    Yes, you will be required to get the vaccinations at boot-camp.

  56. Julie Matthews says:

    Is it ok to have tattoos and my boyfriend is joining the air force at the same time would there be any chance we could communicate

  57. NCCM(ret) says:

    Julie,

    The tattoo requirements for the Navy – http://www.navycs.com/blogs/2008/12/11/brands-tattoos-body-art

    To communicate during boot-camp, you would have to each send letters to each other.

  58. Richard says:

    Hello,
    So we don’t need to bring extra pairs of clothes? Just the clothes on our backs?
    Thanks in advance.

  59. NCCM(ret) says:

    Richard,

    Aye, those are all you’ll need.

  60. Anthony says:

    Hi,
    I saw you said eczema is usually a disqualifying condition, may I ask why? I am not doctor diagnosed as having it, but I’m pretty sure I do. The only thing I need to do is moisturize my face daily and I’m fine, it takes 10 seconds to do that. My eczema would not effect my performance in the military at all, even if I had a flare up. I am highly motivated to excel in the Navy and don’t want this minor condition to stop me from doing so. This is absolutely no problem unless the Navy wants to make it one. Like I said I only need moisturizer and 10 seconds and I really don’t think that should DQ me.
    Thank you for reading and I await a response,
    Anthony

  61. Taylor says:

    I was wondering if we were allowed a small ipod device for at night when we have down time.

  62. NCCM(ret) says:

    Taylor,

    No. An iPod would not be allowed.

  63. Future Sailor J says:

    I have extremely long hair and it is quicker for me to pick it up neatly than it would be for me to have short hair. Any update on the haircut requirements for women?

    Also is there a specific type of watch that I can use?

    If I were to fall ill during basic, how is my family informed?

  64. NCCM(ret) says:

    Future Sailor J,

    Yes, they absolutely will cut your hair short when you arrive at RTC.

    You can bring a watch (conservative in color and size), but more than likely you will not be able to wear it during training – it will be up to your RDC.

    If you fall ill, and the illness is beyond the common cold, etc., you may be able to call home depending on the seriousness.

  65. Jasmine says:

    If i get in the 900 division will i need to bring an instrument? or will they provide?

  66. NCCM(ret) says:

    Jasmine,

    If you require it, they will supply it.

  67. Future Sailor Sarah says:

    Okay I am leaving in a month what type of cold weather gear do they provide? and how likely is it that i will be in an coed division? also if there arent enough people for a division what happens?

  68. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Sarah,

    Not to worry, you will be provided plenty of gear to keep you insulated from the weather.

    You should be able to be placed in a division once you arrive – that is one of the factors used when lining up jobs and ship dates – when Navy Recruiting ships 100 percent of their assigned goal, it fills the divisions.

  69. FS Fabanne says:

    Hello
    I read on a NAVYMOM blog, that she followed the TO BRING list to the T and everything purchased such as the 6 cotton panties, make up for pictures and sneakers were sent back home. Then again her postwas dated 2009. So I would like to know how accurate is this list. I would hate to take graduation pics without any make- up after going 9weeks looking rough.

  70. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Fabanne,

    The list in this post is valid. Just make sure the sneakers are conservative (no blinking lights, bright obnoxious colors, etc.), and make sure the make-up is limited to the basics and is in a small container (don’t bring a make-up bag full of stuff).

  71. Brianna says:

    I will be leaving for boot camp wednesday and i have lost my social security card…the office will not be open until tuesday…will a print out be accepted until the actual replacement card is received?

  72. NCCM(ret) says:

    Brianna,

    If you joined the DEP with your original SSN card, then you have a certified copy of the card in your enlistment package – it would be good to use for shipping; otherwise, you would have to produce an original SSN card to ship. Contact your Recruiter ASAP to be sure of the documentation you have in your packet.

  73. Brianna says:

    yes i did have a copy of the original when i joined! i saw on the list that we should bring our social security card with us so i was worried that i wouldnt be able to go because it was lost. Should i still bring the new print out as well and my birth certificate as back up?

  74. Future Sailor Sarah says:

    I have heard that if our ASVAB score is high you can be place in 900 div how true is this? I scored 80/99 and have seen people who have said that they had high scores and were “volunteered” for 900 div

  75. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Sarah,

    Your academics are important, but prior experience with marching/military drill or choir/band would be the most advantageous attributes to possess.

  76. NCCM(ret) says:

    Brianna,

    If original documents were used at the time you enlisted, you should be OK, but again, contact your recruiter at first opportunity.

  77. Nicole says:

    NCCM(ret)

    May females wear compress underwear like under armour as long as they are white?

  78. NCCM(ret) says:

    Nicole,

    As long as they are made of cotton and are considered panties.

  79. Rose says:

    My boyfriend is enlisting and I was wondering how the family is informed about graduation. Do recruits get to go home after boot camp or do they go straight to A school?

    I’m assuming that cell phones have to be left behind, do recruits get to use their personal devices after boot camp is over?

    I apologize for all the questions but so many things are left unanswered. Thank you in advance.

  80. NCCM(ret) says:

    Rose,

    Once a graduation date is set, the family will receive a letter explaining the graduation process – the family will also be contacted via telephone by their recruit. Boot-camp dates are set so the Sailor can start their school ASAP – the Navy doesn’t want the Sailor to have to use the minimal saved up leave (2.5 days earned each month of active service) that early – so don’t expect him to come home on leave right after boot-camp.

    After boot-camp, he can use his cell phone.

  81. Mom says:

    Can you switch rate after bootcamp? My son wants to be MA and has been given Corman.

  82. NCCM(ret) says:

    Mom,

    He will not be able to have an opportunity to change ratings until his initial enlistment is over. When he is in boot-camp, everyone goes through classification again, but the process is not to change or pick a new rating – it is to ensure everything is in order. He should leave for boot-camp with the understanding that he will serve his time in the rating for which he enlisted (shipped to boot-camp with).

  83. Keri says:

    Do sports bras have to be white as well ?

    Do you know if we supply our own sneakers, would we still be charged for them at bootcamp ?

  84. NCCM(ret) says:

    Keri,

    Yes, the sports bra would have to be white.

    Great sneaker question. I don’t know, but I’ll ask.

  85. NCCM(ret) says:

    Keri,

    While I am waiting on the answer, you do know the shoes have to be size 5 or smaller or 17 or larger or greater than EE in width, right? (as written in the post)

  86. Future Sailor Sarah says:

    I have been reading on blogs of people and parents who have just come back from bc and they have been saying that everything you bring up is sent back even clothing they say to bring. Is there any truth to this? I leave in a week and if I don’t need to bring it I don’t want to.

  87. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Sarah,

    The guidance that is provided to Navy Recruiting Command by Recruit Training Command on what can be brought to boot-camp is listed in this post – the items and conditions are taken directly from the instruction. I agree that some of the items listed and the way they list them can leave it wide open to interpretation – I have not been advised (even after asking questions) that there is a wholesale return of items, I have been told that items that are not listed, or are considered faddish or excessive, get sent home.

  88. Ebonae says:

    I have my hair in braids (singles) I start bootcamp in a few weeks if i keep my hais in a bun can do i have to cut it?

  89. NCCM(ret) says:

    Ebonae,

    You will not be able to keep your hair in a bun/braid, and if your hair is beyond the maximum length, then it will be cut.

  90. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Sarah,

    Just received a response from RTC. The current instruction providing the guidance above will come under review because no longer are recruits allowed to bring their own running shoes (to use during training) – no matter what size shoe they may wear.

    I am making the change to the post.

  91. Future Sailor Sarah says:

    My mom got me a small notebook/ adress book will I be allowed to keep it?

  92. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Sarah,

    Yes, you will be able to keep a small address book.

    I expect that RTC and CNRC will be having a meeting of the minds on each listed item to ensure the proper guidance is being put out via the written instruction. I do not expect it will be done and published before you leave. Worst case on other items is that they box it up and mail it back to your house.

    Does your Recruiter have any updated information on this topic, or is he/she going off the current instruction as I am?

  93. Future Sailor Sarah says:

    they are going off the same list that you have

  94. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS SARAH,

    As they should be – it is the written guidance. I will press for an update.

    Thank you for your questions, and kick boot-camp’s butt!

  95. Monica says:

    Hello,
    what if you are a female and don’t feel comfortable having a pap smear? Personally, it seems unfair that males don’t have to have the male equivalent (a prostate exam) and it seems a bit invasive. None of my family has had any cancer at all or problems of that nature and if your not sexually active either it doesn’t appear to me like it should be necessary. Thank You.

  96. NCCM(ret) says:

    Monica,

    Everyone will undergo medical tests, a PAP smear is obviously female specific, to ensure things are as they are supposed to be – males do get prostate exams once they reach a certain age (an age when it makes since to do the test).

  97. Future Sailor Sarah says:

    Talked to my recruiter again and he said that you are to bring nothing except any paper work that is needed.

  98. FS TRENNA says:

    If I get my hair braided into cornrows is it guaranteed that it won’t get cut, if they are braided as required?

  99. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Trenna,

    No. If your hair is beyond the length limit combed out, then it will be cut.

  100. Future Sailor Hydrusko says:

    Are the medical/immunization records required to take to boot camp even if I have no waivers?

  101. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Hydrusko,

    Not required, but if you do have the immunization records, and they show you have had a shot within the shot’s normal period, then you may not have to get the shot again while at RTC.

  102. FS TRENNA says:

    When I go to basic training, should I have my pap results & my shot records?

  103. NCCM(ret) says:

    FS Trenna,

    Per the current, published guidance: “Female recruits who have had a PAP smear/pelvic examination during the six months prior to shipping should bring their test results to RTC.”

  104. Keri says:

    Do we get full pap smears or do they just look like they did at MEPS ?

  105. Keri says:

    Sorry, what I really meant to ask is it true that if you’re under 21 you can pass on the pap ? I’m scared to get one at boot camp ! So if you’re under 21 do you get a choice ?

  106. NCCM(ret) says:

    Keri,

    I have never heard of an exception due to age. I will inquire.

  107. Keri says:

    Thanks ! I’ll keep checking back .

  108. Mom says:

    My son left on 1/26/12. When he arrived at Great Lakes he called and said he would call me in two weeks and write in three weeks. Did i missunderstand? If not do you know what day they are allowed to make that first call once they have been there? How much time to talk are they allowed?

  109. NCCM(ret) says:

    Keri,

    The response I received stated that you will get a PAP at RTC unless you bring the documentation as stated in the post.

  110. NCCM(ret) says:

    Mom,

    There isn’t a set day for the phone calls, I remember them being specific to the division they are in – each of my sons, and my own experience, was based on the performance of the division; however, I think I do remember getting letters before the three week point.

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