Summer Camp Packing List: Getting Ready for Sleepaway Camp

Margaret will be venturing off to summer camp in just over two weeks! Even though this will be her third time away – her second at a three week long session- I still can’t believe we actually do “this”. I’m a gonner for those “18 summer” videos and hate the idea that with what little time we get to have our children at home, that I’m willingly sending her away for part of it. But I also can’t believe how much Margaret loves it, which is enough for us to let go and invest in this unique adventure for her. Not that we would ever send her anywhere we thought she’d hate – it is quite the opposite in fact! Her camp is a historic and dreamy all girls camp in North Carolina with the most incredible and diverse schedule of opportunities and traditions. The reputation is stellar and our experience so far could not have been any better. It’s just that our girl had never even felt comfortable enough to do a sleepover prior to the first camp session she attended after second grade. That one was just a week long – they call it Junior camp- and we started with that session as way to test the waters. I could have seen her calling us to come get her after night one, but the only correspondence we got were notes about how much fun she was having. We’ll take the same approach when Catherine is old enough to attend the camp as well, which is actually after 1st grade. If Catherine likes her experience and is up for a three week session, then she’ll join Margaret the following summer and they’ll be in the same session, which is so fun to think about. The last decision we’ll face is whether or not to send them for the five week option when they get to that age, but that is so hard to fathom. Good thing we have some time! I have faith that we’ll be able to cross that bridge confidently enough when we come to it. The bottom line is that now that we know just how much Margaret thrives at sleepaway camp, we can’t imagine denying her the opportunities it brings. She gets the chance to mix and mingle with girls from all over the country, she has so many electives and activities to choose from that she otherwise would not have access to experiencing, and the self assured independence we see after she’s been away, is astonishing. Not to mention, as a Christian camp, we appreciate how organically discussions of faith and scripture are intentionally woven into each and everything they do.

If you stumble upon this post in preparation for your own child to venture off to sleepaway camp, then I am excited for you! I’m hopeful that it turns out to be as enriching of an experience as it has been for Margaret and our family. And I also hope you are ready for some major packing, because there is nothing quite like packing for summer camp! If there’s one thing I love, it’s a good packing list (my ultimate Disney World packing list is my own personal passion project and evidence of this haha) I’d bet your child’s camp has provided a packing list tailored specifically to their needs, but if not (or even if they have) below are some things that have been helpful these past two years.

Summer Camp Packing List: Clothing

Camp clothing gets the stress test of a lifetime, so I try to keep that in mind while packing. Margaret does bring special pieces with her, especially for the Sunday church service, and I’m okay with this because I want her to feel good and confident about her selections. However it is an opportunity to experience natural consequences, for example – last year she packed a new (pricey) bathing suit that was ruined after a festival day that involved wrestling in chocolate syrup. But, she survived and had other swimsuits of course, and I have no doubt will be more careful about which swimsuit she chooses on the days where there might be a bit more mess than others. On that note, we try on everything before packing it, to minimize any fit issues or unwanted surprises! We’re sending lots of casual T-shirts (especially camp tees and tees from places that are meaningful to her) as well as athletic shorts. These are SO cute, like the “norts” us millennials used to wear but with sweet seersucker and floral print touches. Margaret is also a fan of “butterfly shorts” which if you’re a tween girl mom, I am sure they’re already on your radar. Boy moms, I spotted these at Target today – they’re quick dry, not too long, and are just $15. I love the fun summer color options of these $6 girls’ t-shirts and this $8 girls’ graphic shirt is super cute as well! For casual shorts, this pink and purple gingham pair is adorable, as is this classic red and navy pair. I also purchased this girls’ active skort, which is very affordable and comes in tons of color options, and this new gingham skort is definitely getting packed too.

Another thing to keep in mind is the weather. A lot of camps are in places that can get chilly at night, which is quite the change for us Floridians. Be sure to add in a jacket and some cozy sweatshirts/sweat sets to the mix, as well as a truly water repellant rain jacket and rain boots. Oftentimes the kids will have early morning outdoor activities, which can get a bit chilly. My girls are big fans of these lightweight children’s sweatshirts, so a few of them will definitely be coming along.

There are a few other clothing items I recommend adding to your summer camp packing list. First, a nice outfit or two (depending on your camp’s recommendations). Of course, you’ll want to pack essential undergarments including socks, underwear, and sports bras. Comfortable pajamas are a must (I’m packing this summer shorts set and these cute girls’ pink pajamas for Margaret). Our camp asks for four swimsuits for the three weeks and I pack extra with a mix of long sleeve one pieces, traditional one pieces, and pullover long sleeve rash guards. This girls’ striped swimsuit and this one are some of our budget friendly favorites, that also come in girls plus sizes. Both my girls also love this sweet colorful swimsuit. This floral one piece option is under $20 and has already proven to wear and wash well. And then each year we make sure to have rash guards like this one and this one on hand to pull over regular swimsuits.

Summer Camp Packing List: Shoes & Accessories

You will want to send a good pair of sneakers that will comfortably get them through all of their outdoor adventures. Our camp asks that they bring two pairs, just in case! Additionally, a pair of sandals for water activities (they ask for Chacos or Tevas. Margaret has been very happy with these Tevas and I think we’ll order another pair in her next size up. You’ll definitely want to include a hat and sunglasses for all of the outdoor activities as well as sunscreen and bug repellant. For the bug reppellant as they are less likely to leak and easy to carry around. We send her with a dedicated TRVL design bag with her sunscreen and bug spray so she can easily grab it and go. We also include a wet bag and goggles. This is a great beach towel, and they’ll definitely want goggles.

SUMMER CAMP CLOTHES & SHOES

Summer Camp Packing List: Cabin and Bunk Supplies

Next up, cabin and bunk supplies for your summer camp packing list. Most camps will provide a list of the specific bedding items you will need to bring. We decided last year to order a bedding package to be delivered to her bunk so then all we had to pack was her quilt, blanket and I threw in a decorative pillow and pillow case for a little flare. She brings her favorite stuffed animal too. We cover a cork board with pictures of her favorite people, fun quotes and bible verses, and other mementos that she can keep nearby in her bunk. I put 3M mounting squares on the back so they’re ready for her to peel off and apply to her bunk wall when she gets there.

Some additional items for the cabin include a laundry bag, a small clip-on fan to attach to the bed, and some fun activities for your child to do during any rest time. One of the activities we’re sending with Margaret is this personalized letter-writing set for campers. It has adorable color options and I know she will love being able to send some snail mail to friends and family. If you have the Paper In A Pinch subscription, you can access their personalized camp library for digital downloads! Whatever you do, be sure to write out addresses and place stamps on the envelopes before your child leaves home!

Because they have fun nighttime activities at camp, we included a flashlight and a kids’ headlamp or flashlight to your summer camp packing list.

Summer Camp Packing List: Bathroom Supplies

Most of the bathroom supplies that you send for summer camp are the same ones that you’d pack for any vacation. These include all toiletries, a hairbrush, hair ties, etc. However, there are a few extra bathroom essentials you’ll want to pack. Most summer camps require attendees to bring their own bath towels and washcloths. I was able to get these bath towels monogrammed super quickly and they quality is great – they’re going on three years of use! I also highly recommend a portable shower caddy basket. This will make it so much easier for your camper whether they have to transport their supplies from room to room, or as an easy way to keep them organized! You may want to consider packing noise canceling headphones or ear plugs, maybe even a sleep mask, in case your child needs a little extra buffer from the noises that come with sharing a cabin.

Cabin, bunk, & bath

More Essentials for Summer Camp

We send two water bottles and hope they get cleaned out frequently! The more insulation the better! We make sure it is easy to fill up not just with water, but with ice too and Margaret will be packing this Owala style.

Personally, I also think sending a camera with your child to camp qualifies as being essential. I can’t wait to see all of the fun pictures Margaret snaps with her new camp friends! Make sure your camera is compliant with your camp’s rules as many are (thankfully) device and screen free.

Additionally, you’ll want to think about the activities your child will be participating in during camp. And if there are sports on the camp schedule, you’ll want to pack accordingly. For example, we’ll be packing this tennis backpack with Margaret’s racket inside since she’ll be playing tennis during camp. Anyone doing riding will want to be sure to pack boots and pants.

Our camp asks that the girls bring a Crazy Creek chair and these cross body backpacks are all the rage.

camp essentials

Bags to Take to Summer Camp

There is quite a variety of bags that I’ve been collecting for Margaret to take to summer camp. I think it’s so much easier to pack and also for kids to stay organized if they can sort their items in a way that makes sense. The big ticket item of course is the trunk. This is the one she has, that you’ll see most commonly recommended for a reason. It is well made and designed to last from the first day of camp, to the very last day – whenever that may be. We used this Etsy store to customize a large sticker with her name on the top. We also are allowed to pack another large duffle (which of course we take advantage of) and this is the one we have.

I highly recommend using one of these large or medium roadie bags (or both!) If you’re not familiar with roadie bags, they’re great for holding “all the things”. We use them to store everything from daily activities (paper, crayons, etc.) and snacks to sunscreen and swimsuits. They’re wonderful and the personalization options are adorable! We use packing cubes to help keep things like costumes (yes, costumes!) separate from the primary clothing.

And last, but not least, wet bags for your kid to store wet swimsuits, towels, etc. Be sure to also stick waterproof name labels on all bags and loose items.

Summer camp bags

Summer Camp Packing List

I know reading all of these details takes time and let’s face it, as parents we’re almost always short on time. Here is a more succinct summer camp packing list to look over if you’re in a hurry!

Packing for Summer Camp

If you’ve found yourself gearing up to send your child to sleepaway camp like we are, I hope you’ve found this summer camp packing list to be helpful! My best advice is to do everything you can to be prepared and then after that, don’t sweat the small things. I have to remind myself that the camp counselors and leadership team are very well-prepared and that everything will be okay, even if you happen to forget something!

If you’ve previously packed for summer camp and have a packing tip or an essential that I forgot, please leave it in the comment below. Not only will it be helpful to me, but it could also help others prepare for camp! And if you’re looking for additional packing tips and tricks be sure to check out the Ultimate Disney World Packing List, my lunch box favorites, and beach and pool bag must-haves.