Essential Guide to Bringing Items for Reserve BMQ in the Canadian Military

Introduction to Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)

When preparing for Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), it is crucial to bring the necessary items to ensure you are comfortable and ready for rigorous training. This guide will walk you through essential and optional items to pack for your BMQ experience.

Essential Items for BMQ in the Canadian Military

Persona

The first step is to ensure you have the required personal identification:

Government-issued ID such as a driver's license or passport Military ID if applicable

Personal Clothing

Comfort and functionality are key when choosing clothing for non-military activities:

Comfortable civilian clothing for off-duty hours Underwear and socks for the duration of the training Comfortable running shoes for physical activity Casual shoes or boots Warm jacket appropriate for the weather Rain gear, including jacket and pants Sleepwear for the accommodation

Toiletries

Keeping clean and comfortable is paramount during training:

Toothbrush and toothpaste Shampoo and conditioner Soap or body wash Deodorant Razor and shaving cream (if needed) Towel and washcloth

Personal Gear

Bring essential personal items for daily use:

Water bottle for hydration Notebook and pen for notes Any personal medications with prescriptions A small first aid kit

Sleeping Gear

Even if sleeping gear is provided, always prepare for the unexpected:

Sleep mat (bring one if not provided) Sleeping bag (verify if required)

Optional Items for BMQ in the Canadian Military

Besides the essentials, there are several optional items that can make your BMQ experience more comfortable:

Books or magazines for downtime Smartphone (ensure it is allowed and loaded with necessary permissions) Camera for personal use if permitted

Important Notes on BMQ Preparation

Uniforms and Equipment

The vast majority of uniforms and military gear will be issued to you upon arrival. However, always check with your chain of command or specific BMQ guidelines for any additional items you might need:

Packing Tips

Proper organization is crucial, especially if you are sharing living spaces:

Keep your items organized and labeled

Prohibited Items and Shakedown

Upon arrival, all physical items you bring will be subject to a thorough check (often called a shakedown) to ensure no prohibited items are brought in.

Some common prohibited items include:

Firearms Pointy objects such as nails on a fingernail file Drugs without a doctor's prescription Alcohol in any form, including aftershave lotion

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on prohibited items, consult your recruiter.

Conclusion

Always refer to the specific instructions provided by your recruiting center or the BMQ course organizer for any additional requirements or changes. Whether you have only a superficial knowledge of the Canadian Forces or are a veteran, a well-prepared and organized approach will set you up for success during your BMQ training.

Good luck!