Packing Clothes for Summer Camp

When going away to summer camp, your kids won’t have the luxury of having heaps of clothing at their disposal, which is why it’s important to pack smart. Coordinate with the staff of the summer camp your child is attending before they go. Ask for a checklist of clothes, toiletries, and medical supplies your child might need.

You should also inquire about laundry services or if they have any at all. If they don’t, a good rule of thumb for packing clothes would be to multiply the number of days, and add a little bit more. Remember, it’s probably better to over-pack than to be left without the essentials.

For a better grasp on what kind of clothes and how much your child will need, ask the camp coordinators for a rundown of activities planned for their stay. That way, you child will be prepared for whatever comes their way - from lake swimming to mountain climbing.

Here’s a handy checklist for packing clothes for summer camp:

1. Underwear - A pair for every day your child is away and additional pairs to take into consideration how active he/she will be. For boys: briefs, boxer shorts, jock-straps; for girls: bras, panties, sports bra.
2. Tank tops
3. T-shirts - Both long and short-sleeved.
4. Pants - Sweatpants, jeans, and pants for lounging.
5. Shorts - Bicycle shorts, denim shorts, hiking shorts.
6. Pajamas - Nightgowns or pajamas.
7. Bathrobe - They’ll need a bathrobe to move from the showers to their bunks if they’re
not located in the same place.
8. Raincoat, light jacket, hoodie - To keep warm and in case of rain.
9. Swim shirt with UV protection - For swimming days when they’ll be out in the sun all day.
10. Swim suit and swim cap
11. Shoes - For rain and hiking, boots, and flip-flops.
12. Socks - For everyday use.
13. Dress clothes and shoes - In case they have a formal event at the end of camp.
14. Towels - Both for bathing and swimming.
15. Laundry bag - To keep all their used clothes in.