With the many activities available for scouts at the Jamboree, it is without a doubt that patch trading is everyone's favorite.  The roadsides especially after dinner become filled with scouts displaying patches on their cots or towels.  It is a sight to behold as patch flea markets spring up everywhere.  Patch trading is one of the best ways to meet new people, make friends, and have a good time.

A council patch (CP) is worn on the left sleeve of a Boy Scout uniform.  It is the most common patch available for trade.  It has the council name, location and a unique logo.  Jamboree CPs are specially designed and made available to the troop members.  In addition to the ones worn, extras are purchased in case a scout wants to participate in trading.  Because this is Scouting's 100^th anniversary, this makes them even more rare and valuable. 

If a council patch catches a trader's eye, the scouts first make introductions giving names, troop numbers and hometowns. A person from California could trade with a person from New York and swap patches. This may get them talking and soon they may become friends.  Once a fair deal is made, the agreement is completed with a scout handshake.

The BSA has rules for trading.  A scout can only trade with another scout and adults trade only with adults.  No money can be passed and each trade must be fair and end with a handshake.