Military graduation is one of the most meaningful events a family can experience. Whether your loved one is completing Army Basic Training, Navy PIR, Air Force BMT, Marine Corps Boot Camp, or Coast Guard Cape May, having the right items packed can make your trip smoother, more comfortable, and far more enjoyable.
This all-branch packing guide breaks down exactly what families should bring — from essentials to travel tips to optional extras you’ll be glad you didn’t forget.
Packing Essentials for All Branches
No matter where your graduation takes place, these core items make every Family Day and Graduation Day easier.
Valid IDs for All Adults
You must have government-issued ID to enter any military installation.
Base Access Documents
Each branch has different requirements. Bring everything your recruit’s command instructed.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You will walk far more than expected — between parking, ceremony locations, and meeting points. Avoid heels or dress shoes.
Layered Clothing
Graduations start early, and temperatures vary:
- cold mornings
- warm afternoons
- breezy parade decks
Layers keep you comfortable all day.
Portable Phone Charger
Photos, videos, navigation, and long days drain batteries.
Water & Light Snacks
Some bases allow outside items; some do not. Always pack them just in case.
Sunscreen & Sunglasses
Nearly all graduations include outdoor elements — even in cooler seasons.
Branch-Specific Packing Tips
While the core items stay the same, each branch has unique needs based on location and ceremony style.
U.S. Army (Fort Jackson, Benning, Leonard Wood, Sill)
Bring:
- umbrellas or ponchos (weather changes fast)
- cooling towels (summer graduations get HOT)
- insect repellent (Fort Jackson especially)
- binoculars (large parade fields)
Notes:
- Many Army ceremonies involve long outdoor periods
- OSUT graduations often include more walking between areas
U.S. Navy (Great Lakes – PIR)
Bring:
- light sweater (the drill hall can feel cool)
- tissues (this ceremony is emotional for most families)
- a tote for carrying items during travel around base
Notes:
- PIR is indoors but lines/waiting areas may be chilly
- The base is large — comfortable shoes are a must
U.S. Air Force (Lackland BMT)
Bring:
- sunglasses (Texas sun)
- hats or visors
- extra water
- light hoodie (mornings can surprise you)
Notes:
- You’ll spend a lot of time outdoors during the Airman’s Run and Coin Ceremony
U.S. Marine Corps (Parris Island & San Diego)
Bring:
- sunscreen (very strong sun at both locations)
- layers (San Diego mornings are chilly)
- bug spray (Parris Island)
- comfortable shoes
- portable fan (summer graduation at PI can be intense)
Notes:
- Marine Family Day involves walking, standing, and outdoor elements
- Weather swings fast, especially on Parris Island
U.S. Coast Guard (Cape May)
Bring:
- rain jacket or umbrella (coastal weather shifts quickly)
- layers for wind or cool air
- sunglasses
- comfortable walking shoes
Notes:
- Family Day often includes outdoor portions and walking around base
Optional (But Helpful) Items
These aren’t required, but families frequently say they made the day easier:
- crossbody bag or small backpack
- printed schedule of events
- water bottles with strap or holder
- small notebook for travel or instructions
- travel-size hand sanitizer
- cash for on-base dining or vending
- snacks for siblings
- backup clothing layer
If you're bringing small children:
- headphones or ear protection
- small toys
- stroller (if allowed)
If elderly family members are attending:
- folding cane seat
- cooling towel
- extra water
Items Many Families Forget
Here are the top forgotten items:
- Phone charger
- Weather layers
- Printed emails/instructions from the base
- Cash (some bases don’t take cards in all areas)
- Snacks/water
- Umbrella or poncho
- Sunglasses
Having these ready saves a lot of stress.
What NOT to Bring
To ensure smooth base entry, avoid:
- knives, pepper spray, or weapons of any kind
- drones
- alcohol
- large coolers
- oversized bags
- political signage/clothing
- pets (service animals only)
- glass containers
Always check your branch’s visitor guidelines.
Packing Checklist (Copy & Save)
Must Bring
- Government ID
- Base access documents
- Phone + backup charger
- Comfortable shoes
- Layered clothing
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water + light snacks
- Printed graduation instructions
Highly Recommended
- Umbrella/poncho
- Bug spray (Army/Marines)
- Tote or crossbody bag
- Cash
- Portable power bank
- Tissues
- Hat or visor
- Light blanket or jacket
This list works for all branches and all bases.
Make Graduation Memorable With Apparel That Shows Your Pride
Your service member has earned something incredible — and matching graduation apparel makes photos meaningful and unified.
Explore Proud Family Shirts for All Branches
Shop Graduation Apparel & Keepsakes
See Branch Collections: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard
Oak & Liberty is honored to support families through one of the most important moments of their loved one’s journey.