Travel Light: Tips on Packing and Gear
From toiletries to tennis shoes, a packing list for the prepared camper.
- Plan ahead — living out of a backpack, duffel bag, suitcase or trunk
- Review camp packing lists
- Label everything — laundry pens or iron-on and sew-in labels ID your camper's belongings
- Break in shoes and boots before camp begins
Packing From the Top–Down
Headgear
- Scarves
- Bandannas
- Baseball caps
- Sunhat
- Eyeglasses
- Sunglasses
- Swimming goggles
Clothing
- T-shirts/tank tops
- Shorts
- Long pants
- Jeans
- Jacket
- Raincoat
- Sweater
- Sweatshirt/sweatpants
- Swimsuit
- Dress clothes (check with camp)
- Pajamas and robe
- Underwear
Footwear
- Boots
- Tennis shoes
- Sandals/flip-flops
- Dress shoes (check with camp)
- Socks
Bed and Bath
- Towels — bath, hand and beach
- Mattress pad
- Blanket
- Pillow and pillowcases
- Sheets
- Sleeping bag
- Laundry bag
Bathroom Kit
- Brush and comb
- Shampoo
- Soap and soap container
- Toothbrush and holder
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Anti-itch ointment
- Insect repellent
- Feminine products
- Sunblock
- Shaving gear
- Lip balm
Gear
- Books and magazines
- Flashlight and batteries
- Frisbee
- Water bottle
- Writing paper, envelopes and stamps
Check with camp on policies for electronics, musical instruments, sports equipment and special gear.
© 2005 American Camp Association Inc. Founded in 1910, the American Camp Association is a national community of camp professionals and is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults through the camp experience.
