What you should bring to the recruit school: full guide for Swiss recruits

The arrival at the recruit school (ER) is a significant moment in your military career. To prepare yourself well, it is essential to know how exactly what to bring with you. Between clothing, personal equipment and small extras, it is easy to forget something important. Here is a complete guide to assure you that you are ready to start your ER in the best conditions, while remaining in agreement with the regulations of the Swiss army.

The clothes and equipment provided by the army

The Swiss army will provide you with all the necessary basic equipment as soon as you arrive at the recruit school. This includes:

• Complete uniform (jacket, pants, military shoes)
• Helmet, gloves and protective glasses
• Military backpack
• Sleeping equipment (sleeping bag and floor mat)
• Training weapons and ammunition (assault rifle, dummy grenades, etc.)

It is important to note that you will be responsible for the maintenance of this equipment throughout your training. An impeccable uniform and a material in good condition will allow you to gain respect for your superiors. Some soldiers also choose to personalize their equipment with badges or badges to strengthen cohesion within their section, but this must remain in accordance with army regulations.

What you have to bring from your home

Even if the army provides you with the essentials, it is recommended to bring some personal affairs that will be useful to you throughout your recruit school. Here is a list of essentials:

1. Personal underwear and clothing

   • Provides enough underwear, socks and t-shirts for at least a week. ER days can be physically trying, and you will want to change your clothes regularly. Favor comfortable underwear adapted to physical effort.
   • Simple civilian clothes for permissions, but be careful not to bring too much, because the possibilities of carrying them will be limited.

2. Toiletry and hygiene articles

   • Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and any other personal hygiene product.
   • Bath towel and toilet towel. The showers are frequent after physical exercises.
   • A first aid kit with dressings, disinfectant and basic drugs (paracetamol, aspirin). Make sure to check the regulations concerning the drugs you can bring with you.

3. Material to maintain your uniform

   • Sewing kit (needles, wires) to repair your uniform if necessary.
   • Shoe brush and shoe polish to keep your military boots impeccable.
   • Anti-mop roll to maintain your uniform in perfect condition, even after physical exercises.

4. Personal objects

   • Mobile phone and charger, but know that using your phone will be limited during the day. It is especially useful for permissions.
   • A notebook and a pen to take notes during training.

Food and snacks for the trip

On the first day, you will have to go to your place of assignment, often with a long journey to be expected. It may be useful to bring some snacks for the trip, but know that you will be fed upon your arrival at the barracks.

Here are some take -out ideas:

• Energy bars, dried fruits, or cookies. Make sure to choose foods that are easy to carry and do not spoil.
• A reusable bottle of water to hydrate you during the journey. This bottle will also be useful to you throughout your recruit school.

Once in the barracks, the Swiss army provides three meals a day, adapted to the nutritional needs of recruits, so it is not necessary to bring large amounts of food.

Objects not to be forgotten but often neglected

Some recruits forget essential objects that it is better not to leave aside:

• Padlocks To secure your personal belongings in the barracks of the barracks.
• Family photos or souvenirs : Even if you will be focused on your missions, having some sentimental objects can help you during the more difficult moments or far from your home.
• Flashlight : Practice for night inspections or travel in unlit areas.

Conclusion

Preparing your arrival at the recruit school will allow you to focus fully on your training without worrying about having forgotten something important. It remains organized, respects the regulations of the Swiss army, and does not hesitate to personalize your equipment with badges or clothes adapted to your section to strengthen the group spirit. A good preparation is already a first step towards the success of your ER!