9 packing tips for overnight summer camp
You may be a packing maven when it comes to family vacations, but packing for sleepaway camp is different. After all, your child needs the basics — such as clothing for scorching hot days, cool nights and rainy weather — but there are lots of other items you may not have thought of. Here are some tips for making sure your camper has everything required for a fun-filled summer experience.
CONSULT THE CAMP’S CHECKLIST
Most summer camps provide a parent handbook on their website that includes a list of must-have items, so check if you need to provide linens, a pillow and towels in addition to your child’s personal things. Some camps also have very strict do-not-bring lists, such as cell phones, food — which can attract insects and rodents into the cabin — or expensive items.
THE RIGHT LUGGAGE WILL CORRAL EVERYTHING
A roomy canvas duffel bag makes packing for camp easy. Your child can also bring along a backpack for smaller items, such as a flashlight and spare batteries, a camera, a reusable water bottle, books, playing cards and small games. Include a large mesh laundry bag for dirty clothes.
PUT IN THE PROPER OUTDOOR GEAR
You’ll probably need to send a warm sleeping bag if your child’s camp goes on canoe trips or other overnight off-property excursions. A sleeping bag also doubles as extra bedding for colder nights.
PERSONAL TOILETRIES AND MEDICATIONS
Don’t skimp on sunscreen, because your child will be outside all day, every day. If your camper doesn’t like lotion and sprays, pack a sunscreen stick instead. Your child will definitely encounter mosquitoes, especially during the evenings, so tuck in some insect repellent. You might want to include individually packaged insect repellent wipes, which are easy to use and carry along in a pocket.
Want to be sure your kid brushes his or her teeth (since you won’t be there for reminders)? Pack a fun toothbrush so you won’t need post camp dentist visits.
Make sure you inform the camp about any medications your child requires, and send the medicine in its original bottle complete with dosage instructions.
A plastic caddy is practical to tote soap, shampoo and conditioner to the shower house, and will allow things to dry between washing up sessions.
FOOTWEAR FOR EVERY OCCASION
Pack two pairs of sturdy running shoes — in case one gets wet — plus sandals. Many camps suggest shower shoes because wet, communal floors can get kind of gross. So pack either water shoes or sturdy flip flops — which can do doubleduty at the beach, too. It’s a good idea to send along rain boots.
SWIMWEAR AND ACCESSORIES FOR ALL OCCASIONS
In addition to swimsuits and beach towels, include a few quick-drying long-sleeved rash guards that protect your child from the sun. Add a pair of goggles, sunglasses plus a couple of baseball caps, too. If your child tends to get swimmer’s ear, you’ll need to pack a pair of ear plugs.
CREATURE COMFORTS TO CHASE AWAY HOMESICKNESS
For first-time campers, it’s a good idea to pack favourite stuffed animals and cuddle pillows with hidden pockets where they can keep small toys or a note from you.
CONSIDER SPECIAL EVENTS
Some camps organize special theme days or evening programs that encourage kids to dress up, so find out if you need to send along things like costumes and props, dressier clothing for dances or items in a specific colour for team competitions.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS IF YOUR CHILD STAYS LONGER
Camp sessions longer than two weeks require a few extra things, such as nail clippers, another bar of soap or larger bottles of body wash or shampoo, sunscreen and insect repellent. To encourage your child to stay in touch, include lots of paper, envelopes and stamps so he or she won’t run out halfway through the summer.