Summer Camp Packing List

Preparing your child for summer camp can be a daunting task, but with our comprehensive packing list, you can rest assured that they'll have everything they need for a fun and safe camp experience. Here's a breakdown of what to pack and why:

Clothing:

The clothing you pack for summer camp should be durable, comfortable, and appropriate for the weather and activities you'll be participating in. Consider packing a mix of t-shirts, shorts, and pants that are made from breathable, lightweight materials to keep you cool and comfortable. For girls, it's a good idea to pack a mix of tank tops, t-shirts, and blouses for more formal occasions.

When it comes to footwear, it's important to pack closed-toe shoes that are comfortable and supportive. Tennis shoes or hiking boots are great choices for most activities, but it's also a good idea to pack a pair of sandals or flip flops for trips to the pool or shower.

It's important to pack enough underwear and socks to last throughout your stay at camp, and it's a good idea to bring a laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones. If you're attending a camp with a dress code, make sure to pack the appropriate clothes, such as white shirts and navy shorts.

Overall, the key to packing clothes for summer camp is to focus on comfort and practicality. You'll be spending a lot of time outside and participating in a variety of activities, so it's important to pack clothes that will keep you comfortable and protected.

Bedding:

At Camp Niwana, we provide each camper with a twin-size bed, but it's up to parents to make sure their child is comfortable during their stay. It's recommended to pack a lightweight sleeping bag or blanket to keep warm during cooler nights, along with a pillow and pillowcase for added comfort.

In addition to the bedding, we also recommend bringing a set of twin-size sheets to cover the mattress. This will help keep the bed clean and provide an extra layer of comfort. For those who are prone to getting chilly at night, a lightweight blanket can be a good addition to the bedding as well.

When packing bedding for summer camp, it's important to keep in mind that space can be limited. It's best to pack lightweight and compact bedding that can easily fit in a camper's suitcase or duffel bag. Additionally, it's a good idea to label all bedding with a camper's name to ensure that it doesn't get mixed up with others.

Towels and Toiletries:

Towels and toiletries are an essential part of any camper's packing list. It's important to pack enough towels to last the entire session, and to label them with the camper's name to prevent mix-ups. At Camp Niwana, we recommend packing at least five to six bath towels and washcloths, as well as a couple of beach towels for the pool. These towels should be quick-drying and easily foldable, so they don't take up too much space in the camper's luggage.

Toiletries are equally important for any camper's packing list. Each camper should bring a carrying caddy to store their toiletries, and label it with their name to avoid confusion. Basic items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and shampoo should be included, as well as soap or body wash. Deodorant is also recommended, especially for older campers. Girls should pack lots of ponytail holders and a hairbrush, while boys should bring a comb.

Other important toiletries to include are sunscreen and bug spray. At Camp Niwana, we spend a lot of time outdoors, and it's crucial to protect our campers from the harmful effects of the sun and insects. Campers who wear glasses or contact lenses should pack a spare pair in case they lose or damage their main pair. In addition to these items, we recommend packing any other personal items that your camper may need, such as feminine hygiene products, medication, or inhalers.

Other Necessities:

In addition to the clothing, bedding, and toiletries, there are a few other items that every camper should bring to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable summer camp experience.

First, a non-breakable water bottle or cup is a must-have for all campers. It's important to stay hydrated in the hot summer weather, and having a personal water bottle or cup makes it easy to carry water with you throughout the day.

A raincoat or poncho is also a wise addition to any camper's packing list. Summer weather can be unpredictable, and rain can strike at any time. A lightweight raincoat or poncho will help keep campers dry in the event of a sudden shower.

Campers should also bring a flashlight with new batteries. While most areas of the camp are well-lit, there may be times when campers need to navigate their way in the dark, such as on a nighttime bathroom run or during a campfire singalong.

Lastly, a large laundry bag for dirty clothes is essential. With all the outdoor activities and adventures, campers are bound to accumulate a lot of dirty laundry. A laundry bag makes it easy to keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones, and ensures that everything stays organized and tidy.

By packing these essential items, campers can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable summer camp experience.

At camp, your child will have the opportunity to make new friends, try new things, and develop important life skills like independence and resilience. With our packing list, you can ensure that they have everything they need for a successful and memorable camp experience.