Shopping for Your Kids Going to Sleepaway Camp: A Parent’s Guide to Packing for Camp Life

Sending your kids off to sleepaway camp is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a bit overwhelming—especially when it comes to packing. With so many things to remember and the unique needs of camp life, shopping for all the right gear is essential. To help you navigate this process, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide for shopping for your kids going to sleepaway camp.

1. Start Early to Avoid Last-Minute Stress

The first rule of shopping for sleepaway camp gear is to start early. Camp packing lists can be extensive, and you don’t want to find yourself scrambling for items at the last minute. Many camps send out detailed packing lists that include everything from clothing to toiletries, so make sure you have that handy. Starting your shopping at least a few weeks before camp starts gives you time to find the best deals, ensure you’re buying the right sizes, and avoid any last-minute panic.

2. Clothing for Comfort and Versatility

When it comes to camp clothing, comfort is key. Your child will be outdoors for extended periods, so lightweight, breathable, and durable clothing is a must. Look for pieces that can handle outdoor activities, whether it’s hiking, swimming, or playing sports. Some essential clothing items to focus on include:

• T-shirts and Long Sleeve Shirts: You’ll want a mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts for various weather conditions.
• Shorts and Pants: Durable and quick-drying shorts are great for hot weather, while lightweight, breathable pants are useful for cooler evenings and bug protection.
• Swimsuits: Many camps have pools or lakes, so make sure to pack at least two swimsuits.
• Sweatshirts and Jackets: Even in summer, evenings can get chilly, so a comfy sweatshirt or light jacket is essential.
• Socks and Underwear: Don’t skimp here. You’ll need plenty of pairs, and moisture-wicking socks can help prevent blisters from all the walking and hiking.
• Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is a must-have for sudden downpours.

Consider purchasing a mix of both name-brand and affordable options, as camp gear can get a lot of wear and tear.

3. Footwear for All Activities

Your child’s feet will be doing a lot of work at camp, so investing in high-quality footwear is essential. Think about the types of activities they’ll be doing:

• Sneakers or Hiking Boots: Your child will need sturdy footwear for hiking, sports, and general walking around camp. Make sure the shoes are broken in before they head off to avoid blisters.
• Water Shoes: If your child will be swimming or boating, water shoes are a must to protect their feet from sharp rocks or slippery surfaces.
• Flip-flops or Sandals: For the showers and lounging around, a pair of flip-flops will keep things comfortable and hygienic.

Remember to label all shoes with your child’s name, as camp footwear tends to get mixed up with other kids' shoes.

4. Sleep Essentials: Resting Easy at Camp

While your child won’t have access to their cozy bed from home, there are still some sleep essentials to make their nights at camp as comfortable as possible. Be sure to check with the camp for any specific bedding requirements, but in general, here’s what you’ll need:

• Sleeping Bag: Choose a sleeping bag appropriate for the weather—usually a medium-weight sleeping bag for summer will do.
• Pillow: A small, camp-friendly pillow will make resting easier. You might also want a pillowcase for extra comfort.
• Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress: Many camps provide beds, but some also use air mattresses or sleeping pads for added comfort and insulation.
• Extra Blanket: Depending on the camp's location, it might get chilly at night. A lightweight blanket can come in handy.

5. Toiletries and Personal Care

Your child will need their own toiletries to stay fresh and clean during their time at camp. Most camps don’t provide toiletries, so it’s important to pack everything they’ll need. Some basics include:

• Toothbrush and Toothpaste: A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste are perfect for camp life.
• Shampoo and Conditioner: A 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner bottle is great for saving space.
• Soap or Body Wash: Choose a gentle, camp-friendly soap or body wash.
• Towels: Pack a bath towel for showers, as well as a smaller towel for swimming or outdoor activities.
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm: A good sunscreen (with a high SPF) and lip balm with SPF are essential to protect your child from sunburns.
• Bug Repellent: A camp-friendly bug spray will keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Don’t forget things like hairbrushes, deodorant, and any medications your child might need.

You can even make a personal “toiletries kit” for your child to keep their items organized and easy to access.

6. Camp-Specific Gear

Each camp might have specific gear they require, such as:

• Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for getting around after dark, especially in the cabins or during night activities.
• Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle is a must to keep your child hydrated throughout the day.
• Daypack or Backpack: A small backpack for hiking, carrying snacks, or carrying their gear to different activities.
• Camp T-shirt: Some camps offer t-shirts or ask kids to bring one, so check in advance.

7. Label Everything

One of the most important things you can do when shopping for sleepaway camp is to label everything. From clothing to gear to toiletries, your child’s items are going to be mixed in with other kids’ belongings. Use permanent fabric markers or personalized name labels to ensure everything can be returned if it gets lost.

8. Pack Smart: Organize for Easy Access

When packing, make sure to organize everything into clear categories—clothing, toiletries, camping gear, and personal items. Use packing cubes or zippered bags to keep things neat and easy to find. It’ll help your child stay organized and reduce the chance of forgetting something.

9. Keep in Mind the Camp’s Rules

Before you hit the stores, be sure to check with the camp about any restrictions. Some camps have strict rules about what can and cannot be brought, such as electronics, food, or valuables. Keep in mind that camp is all about getting back to basics and connecting with nature, so things like phones and video games are often prohibited.