What should I buy before shipping to BCT and what should I wait on buying until after I arrive?

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 May 2019 21:21:17 -0400

I'm shipping off to Fort Benning soon and I heard that when you get there you are required to purchase needed items at the PX such as new sneakers. What should I buy before shipping and what should I wait on? For example envelopes, stamps, pocket notebooks, foot powder, & anything else that's available at the PX.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2019 9:47 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 21 May 2019 21:47:50 -0400

I would not buy much. Most of the stuff the trainees brought from home they were not allowed to have. Either it was not unscented, or medicated or something else. I would wait because the Drill Sergeants will inform you on what you are allowed to have. Every company is different with what they allow.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2019 12:26 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 May 2019 00:26:51 -0400

Don't buy anything beforehand, it will be seen as contraband and you will have to get rid of all off it. Wait until you're at reception and then buy what the DS tells you to

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2019 8:08 AM

SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 May 2019 08:08:29 -0400

Don't waste your time or money on anything before hand. Bring your clothes off your back and your paperwork you are given at meps. Once you arrive you will be issued and allowed to get everything that is needed.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made May 22 at 2019 11:20 AM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Wed, 22 May 2019 11:20:32 -0400

Show up with clean clothes, empty pockets, and a fresh shave. Seriously. That's it. OK... not COMPLETELY empty pockets - have your ID in one of them.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2019 2:48 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 22 May 2019 14:48:13 -0400

Nothing. What you need will be issued to you. Beyond that, creature comforts are just going to hinder your ability to focus on the task at hand. You're there to be a soldier. If you show up with quality running shoes you won't be required to buy new ones. I showed up to basic with nothing. I left with too much extra garbage. Keep it simple, and keep it light.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2019 10:25 AM

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 25 May 2019 10:25:06 -0400

My first question is why don’t you ask your recruiter these questions.

Next the army gives you literally everything you need to survive. You don’t need anything extra! Anything you bring with you is confiscated anyway fornthe exception medications and religious items.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2019 1:41 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 May 2019 13:41:05 -0400

Everything you need your Drill Sergeant will make available to you. Also check the following site:

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/military-life-cycle/new-to-the-military/getting-settled/what-to-pack-for-basic-training

Packing for Basic Training

You'll need to take only a few basic things when you head off to basic training - everything else will be provided for you. Your recruiter will give you a list of what you must take and what you definitely shouldn't pack.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2019 11:47 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 27 May 2019 23:47:06 -0400

They have literally everything you need thwre, which you will be buying on a card they give you. This will take place at reception. Ahh 30th AG i was there for 11 days. Dont worry though they will tell you and direct you what you need