i'm not advocating this for most situations but, when we go out on a scouting adventure, we have a dedicated group pack, that is usually carried by a parent. we use it for all sections, and it's sort of their own right of passage. As a general rule, the youger the kids and the newer to scouting the families are, the less prepared the parents, and the more they rely on the leaders to take care of everyone. except for camping, they show up with a "tag along" attitude, and we try to gently but proactively change that attitude. the non-prepped parents take turns carrying the pack, and we have them check the contents when it's their turn. after each trip, we thank the parent, and then take them aside, point how simple it is, and then suggest they make their own similar pack for their family.

"The Blue Pack" has a robust fak, extra lanyards and lights, rope, a tarp, extra hat/mitts/socks, a couple of disposable ponchos, hot chocolate, snacks, a fire kit, extra water, map and compass, emergency contact lists and our 2-way radios. it's not very heavy and pretty comfy so usually makes them see how easy it is to be prepared.