Summer Youth Camp: Packing Perfection

After months of research the camp has been chosen and you’ve just talked your youngest down from a near tantrum thru your “big kids go to camp” explanation of why he or she won’t be joining big sis or brother on their outdoor adventure. Just a few nights before the big day, your proud camper to be is chatting on the phone to grandma about the great trip and you still haven’t packed the travel bag. No worries—grab a cup of tea, a duffle bag and your sharpie marker; a week of bubble baths and some well deserved summer down time is just around the corner.

First things first, dig out the camp packet buried at the bottom of your mail pile and read over any missed details you may have accidentally skimmed over. Most kids’ camps send out a list of necessary items your child will need during their stay. While you may feel tempted to cut out an item here and there, it’s not recommended. These lists are created for a reason and the items shouldn’t be hard to find; Camp Paha Sapa doesn’t usually require a “treasure hunt” for that special Himalayan mosquito net—don’t worry about specialty items until your child requests a camp closer to that of an African Safari. However, don’t wait until the night before to pack juniors bag; planning ahead is advised because you never know if a store run will be essential—especially if this is your first camp preparation. Follow these easy steps and each year will get a little easier:

Summer Camp: A soft duffel or gym bag:

Luggage is often bulky and doesn’t roll well on rocky terrain. Save the 1979 Samsonite hand-me-down for that first trip to Europe. Packing for a camping trip is about an easy-to-handle light pack filled with necessities; your camper should be focused on meeting people and participating in activities. Plus, duffel bags often hold more than meets the eye.

Summer Camp Weather: Shiver me timbers:

Don’t send your camper off without the appropriate garb; no parent would knowingly forget the essentials but we do forget that summer doesn’t account for those cold mountain nights. Check weather reports or ask camp directors about weather patterns.

Overnight Summer Camp: Heirlooms and Breakables:

Your little camper may wear that watch or locket everywhere but these items are no match for summer camp—especially after a few canon balls off the diving board. Leave these items at home; even computer camp is no place for specialty items that can be lost or broken.

Camp Terrain: A light at the End of the Tunnel:

If there’s one item not to purchase on the cheap it’s a flashlight—buy one at a camping or hardware store. Make sure it’s sturdy, reliable and you pack extra batteries. A flashlight offers security and a lighted path to the outhouse.

Summer Camp Packing: Keeping up with the Jones’:

Compromise with your child; allow your camper to grab their favorite sweater or sneakers but stores like Old Navy are a great inexpensive source for an extra swimsuit, cute flip-flops, socks, basic tees and shorts. Don’t forget to initial articles of clothing with your black sharpie.

Pack extra underwear and socks; life happens at camp—especially in the great outdoors. Your camper will appreciate the extras after a day canoeing on the lake, hiking or sitting around a smoky campfire. Plus, they don’t take much extra room. Here’s a list of essentials to get you started; it seems like a lot but take into consideration the length of your child’s camp stay—quantities may vary:

• shorts (4-6 pairs)


• long pants (4-6 pairs)


• t-shirts (6-8)


• light sweaters (4)


• heavy jacket


• socks (10-12 pairs)


• sun hat or baseball cap


• pair of slippers


• pair of flip-flops


• pair of sneakers


• pair of hiking boots (depending on camp)


• rain boots or water proof hiking boots


• pajamas (2-3)


• underwear (8-10)


• bathing suits (3-4)


• rain coat


• towels (4-7)


• face cloths (2)


• laundry bag


• brush/comb


• bars of soap (2)


• toothbrush/paste


• bottle of shampoo/conditioner


• insect repellent


• sun screen


• nail clippers


• toiletry bag


• travel Kleenex


• pillow/case


• blankets (2)


• sheets (4)


• flashlight and batteries

You can find a few camp supplies here.