Getting Started

Cub Scouts in uniform outdoors, with the Cub Scouts emblem

Step 1: Registration

New Members

Register online using our Pack 1533 registration link.

Transferring from Another Pack

If your family is transferring from another Cub Scout pack, use the same registration link and indicate you’re transferring. Contact pack1533cubmaster@gmail.com if you encounter any issues — we may need to complete a paper application to facilitate the transfer.

See our Costs page for a full breakdown of registration fees and Pack dues.

Step 2: Uniforms and Gear

Pack 1533 has a flexible approach to uniforming. We understand that complete uniforms take time to acquire and represent a significant investment, so start simple.

Priority Purchases:

  1. Pack 1533 Class B T-shirt: We sell these (at cost) at events at the beginning of the Scouting year. If we run out of your size, let us know. We order shirts periodically and will notify you when orders are available.
  2. Den Hat: Rank-specific hat available at the Scout Shop.

What to Wait On:

Don’t rush to buy everything at once. Pack activities will help you understand which supplies are most useful, sizes may change (especially for younger Cubs), and you can get advice from other parents about what’s worth buying.

These items can wait until you know what your Cub actually needs:

  • Class A uniform shirt and patches
  • Neckerchief and slide
  • Additional accessories
  • Camping gear (wait until you know which activities you’ll attend)
  • Den Handbook (information is also available online)

You can find information on uniforms at scouting.org/programs/cub-scouts/cub-scout-uniform.

Hand-Me-Down Program

We maintain a bin of used Scouting uniform pieces donated by advancing Scouts. Families are welcome to browse and take what they need for their Cubs, including hats, neckerchiefs, and other uniform items.

Where to Shop

  • Northern Virginia Scout Shop (Springfield): 5232 Port Royal Rd, Springfield, VA 22151. Phone: (703) 321-4836. View on Google Maps
  • Scout Shop Website: scoutshop.org

Step 3: After Registration

  1. Confirmation: You’ll receive confirmation that your registration was accepted
  2. Pack Communications: You’ll be added to Pack email lists
  3. Den Assignment: Your Cub will be placed in a den with other Scouts of the same rank
  4. Den Leader Contact: The Cubmaster and/or your Den Leader will reach out about den meetings and activities

Step 4: Required Health Forms

All Cubs and participating parents should complete Annual Health and Medical Record forms. Download forms here.

Give completed forms to your Den Leader. These are mandatory for participation in all activities.

Step 5: Connect to Scoutbook Plus

Scoutbook Plus

Scoutbook Plus is the primary online platform for managing the Cub Scout program. It shows the Pack and Den calendars and is also used for advancement tracking.

Access Scoutbook Plus at advancements.scouting.org.

Communication

Pack leadership communicates via email for formal communication, using the email address registered in Scoutbook Plus.