How To Draft the Ultimate Summer Camp Packing List

Are you sending your kid to summer camp?

While there's a lot you need to do before you send your child off, one of the biggest things you want to focus on is the packing list. 

The last thing you want is to send your kid off to camp ill-prepared. But, you also don't want to send them with a ton of stuff they don't need. And, seeing as they will be sharing a room with 10 other kids, it's not like they'll have the space for a huge suitcase either. 

So, what do you need to pack for an overnight summer camp?

Check out this guide to discover the ultimate summer packing list. Also, if you want your kid to be the cool one of the gang, be sure to get him a safe portable fire pit for camping - check out this site for great ones 

1. Clothing

Even if your child will summer camp in a warm location, you'll still want to send them off with a wide array of clothing for rainy days and late nights at the campfire. 

Here's everything you should pack in terms of clothing:

  • Socks

  • Underwear

  • Hats

  • Raincoat

  • Tank tops

  • T-shirts

  • Sweatshirts

  • Shorts

  • Jeans

  • Sweatpants

  • Sandals

  • Flip flops/shower shoes

  • Dressy outfit (usually there's a camp dance)

  • Dressy shoes

Also, check to see if the camp has any fun dress-up days. If they do, you may want to also consider packing more obscure clothing items such as wigs or costumes. 

2. Toiletries 

While many camps have small general stores that sell toiletries, it's best to come prepared. 

Here's what you need to pack in terms of toiletries:

  • Shower caddie

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Toothbrush and floss

  • Deodorant

  • Body wash

  • Hair ties

  • Brush

  • Nail clippers

  • Lip balm

  • Sunscreen

  • Mosquito repellant

  • Glasses/ contacts/ contacts solution

  • Tampons/pads

  • Washcloths

  • Tissues

  • 2 bathing towels

You can check out this overnight summer camp essentials to learn more about the toiletries you need to bring. 

3. Sporting Equipment 

Your child will be spending a lot of time at summer camp trying different sports. Therefore, make sure you pack the right things so they can enjoy these activities to the fullest. 

Here's what you need to pack in terms of sporting equipment:

  • Water shoes

  • 3 swimsuits

  • Sports bra

  • Jockstrap

  • Goggles for swimming

  • Athletic shirts/shorts

  • Running shoes

  • Riding shoes if they plan to horseback ride

  • Climbing shoes if the plan to rock climb

Before you pack their sporting equipment, get a list of the sports they have the option of participating in. It may turn out that they also need soccer cleats or baseball cleats.

4. Miscellaneous 

Besides all the above, there are some miscellaneous items you should pack. These include:

  • Stationery, stamps, pens, and envelopes

  • Flashlight with extra batteries

  • Prescription medicines

  • Books

  • Deck of cards

  • Laundry bag

  • Water bottle

  • Small backpack for day trips

  • Camera

  • Something beloved from home, such as a family photo or a stuffed animal

Summer Camp Packing List: Are You Ready to Send Your Child Off to Camp?

By following this summer camp packing list, your child will be fully prepared for camp. 

If you liked this article, be sure to check back in with our blog for more parenting tips and tricks.