Summer Camp Packing List

I just printed out my summer camp packing list so I can get a head start preparing both kids for sleepaway camp in a few weeks. This year they are switching to a new summer camp where they will spend 2 weeks, so I am double checking to make sure they are well-prepared and have everything they need for an unforgettable summer experience.

From essentials like clothing and toiletries to comforting items that remind them of home, packing for camp can feel overwhelming. I cannot even begin to describe the amount of hours I’ve spent researching and shopping for the perfect duffel bag, reviewing all the camp packing restrictions and instructions, shopping for little items to mail to camp or to sneak into their bags, asking seasoned camp moms for the most effective and safe insect repellent spray, and more. And each year I update my packing list to include any new items we may have discovered and remove things the kids have outgrown. (PSST — I keep my Amazon summer camp list of favorites updated HERE with new finds).

Whether you’re sending your kid(s) to sleepaway camp for the first time and are starting from scratch, or you’re looking for new items to make your campers experience even better, here are a few items on our summer camp packing list…

— Summer Camp Packing List —

CLOTHING & SHOES

Your camp will likely provide you with a packing list of essential items to bring, so definitely start there. The quantity of items your camper may need will vary depending on length of stay, any special activities/events, and whether or not your camp utilizes a laundry service. Also, don’t forget to label all of these items! Here are a few label options: Iron On + Self Stick

T-shirts: Packing ALL the random school/sports/camp t-shirts they already own.
Shorts: These Butterfly Shorts are Caroline’s favorite shorts. They are flowy and breathable (perfect for hot days) but also have a compression liner underneath that allows shorts to stay in place while being active. Thomas will pack 6 pairs of these lightweight shorts. They are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, are easy to dress up or down, and are available in 5 colors.
Pants: If you need to bring a nicer pair of pants, we love these for Thomas and these for Caroline.
Sweatshirt: A fun item to buy from your camp store, if available.
Underwear + Stay Dry Racerback Sports Bras
Socks: These Junk Food Themed Crew Socks are hilarious and ensure your campers will know exactly which ones are theirs!
Tube Socks (for Sock War)
Pajamas: Caroline will bring these sleeveless pajamas, these short sleeve pajamas, and these Sweatpants. Thomas will sleep in t-shirts and lightweight shorts or sweatpants (for chilly nights).
Bathing Suits: Swim Trunks for Thomas / One Piece Swimsuits for Caroline
Tennis Shoes: We buy these unisex sneakers again and again for both kids. They’ll bring an older pair to camp.
Outdoor/Hiking Sandals: These open toed lightweight shoes are supportive for long hikes, quick-drying and anti-slip grip for water activities, and comfortable. We’ve purchased this exact pair twice for both kids.
Shower Shoes/Sandals: Girls Slides / Boy Slides (They will double as slippers around the cabin)
Rain Jacket
Sunglasses + Hat

TOILETRIES & PERSONAL ITEMS

Toiletries: Hanging Toiletry Bag / Toothbrushes (pack extra) + Travel Cases / Skincare Products
Hair Brush + Hair Ties + Hair Elastics (for braids)
Shower Items: Shower Caddy / Silicone Body Scrubber Loofah (I prefer silicone loofahs because wash cloths at camp grosses me out) / Shampoo + Conditioner + Body Wash
Sunscreen Face Stick + Spray
Mosquito Spray + Stickers for Gear & Clothing + Bracelets

BEDDING, TOWELS & CABIN ITEMS

Bed Sheets
Pillow + Pillow Cases: I send cheap pillows instead of their pillows from home.
Blankets: Another fun item to purchase from the camp store. Pack some Fabric Markers for signing blankets/pillowcases! So fun to see the blanket get more colorful through the years!
Sleeping Bag + Sleep Mask (fun activity for whole cabin)
Towels (Shower & Swimming)
Laundry Bag: Check your camp store for this too. I recommend getting one with a shoulder strap so it’s easier to carry.
Small Battery Powered Clip-On Fan (for hot nights) + Extra Batteries
Storage Bag with Stationary (cute option, cute option) + Stamps (I will pre-address and stamp the envelopes for Thomas) + Clipboard (with storage for pens/markers) + Pens (these glitter gel scented pens are so fun!)!
Bible + Journal + Book + Reading Light
Bunk Decorations: Photo Garland + Printed Photos + Fairy Lights

GEAR

Duffle Bag: If you aren’t required to use a trunk, I will pass along a tip I received from a very season camp mom — THIS IS THE DUFFLE BAG YOU NEED. It’s the XL Adventure Bag from LL Bean and holds everything we need for our kids in ONE bag (including sheets/pillows/etc.). Order soon because it sometimes take extra time to ship — especially if you are personalizing/monogramming.
Sling Cross-Body Bag: Perfect size for carrying water bottles, goggles, towel, etc. around camp or while hiking. Lots of color options.
Flashlight + Head Lamp: They’ll likely use the head lamp way more than the flashlight.
Goggles
Water Bottle (I buy a camp Nalgene + pack splash guards + fun stickers for decorating their bottles)
Mosquito Repellent Bracelets
Crazy Creek Chair
Disposable Camera
TIP: Spray all of your camper’s gear and outerwear ahead of time with this Insect Repellent Spray. It works SO well to protect from ticks, mosquitos, chiggers, spiders, etc. for up to 6 weeks.

REST HOUR ACTIVITIES & PACKAGE IDEAS

If your camp is “package-free,” here are 30+ non-food surprises you can sneak into your camper’s luggage to let them know you are thinking about them. Lots of these items come in large quantities making them perfect for sharing with bunk mates and new friends — especially during rest hour! A few of my favorite items: