Patch trading has always been a cherished Scouting tradition that fosters camaraderie and extends the Scouting experience beyond a Scout’s home troop and community. At the heart of patch trading in Scouting is the adherence to the Scout Law, ensuring that all trades reflect the ideals of Scouting. Inappropriate trading behaviors that contradict the Scout Law are not tolerated, and it is the responsibility of Scouts and adult leaders to address and discourage such behaviors (A Scout is Brave).
At the upcoming 2023 National Jamboree, patch trading will be an official program activity monitored by the Program Jamboree Service Team and members of the International Scouting Collectors Association. To promote safe and appropriate patch trading, the following policies have been established:
- Patch trading is an open activity and can take place anywhere on the Summit property, as long as displays and traders/viewers do not hinder the safe movement of pedestrians and vehicles.
- Trades can occur between youth/youth, youth/adult, or adult/adult, provided that such interactions adhere to the BSA’s Youth Protection Guidelines and Barriers to Abuse policies and align with the ideals of the Scout Law.
- An adult is defined as anyone 18 years of age or older.
- Utilize the buddy system to ensure personal safety, especially in large and crowded areas of the Jamboree.
- The trading of award or rank patches, Scouting knots, religious medals, or badges of office is strictly prohibited and violates Article X of the Rules and Regulations of the Boy Scouts of America.
- If trading a non-Scouting item or patch (one not issued by a Scouting organization), traders must disclose this fact prior to the trade.
- Trading in the Summit Center outside of program hours (8am-5pm, except on 7/27 – 8am-3pm) is not permitted. Scouts and leaders are required to cease trading at the end of program hours and return to their base camps.
To facilitate patch trading, an official trading center will be designated on the porch of the Scott Visitor Center in Gateway Village, open during program hours. Trading staff and resource materials will be available at the trading center to provide guidance and answer any questions if requested.
Patch trading is an art that embodies the spirit of Scouting. By adhering to these policies and embracing the principles of the Scout Law, Scouts at the 2023 National Jamboree can continue the time-honored tradition of patch trading while creating meaningful connections with fellow Scouts from across the nation.