Summer is almost here and for us there are just two short weeks until school is out. Some of my favorite memories of my summers as a youth were being a camp counselor for an overnight camp in our community. Now my children and nieces and nephews make fond memories at that same summer camp! When your child is getting ready to go away to summer camp there are so many things to remember and think of whether it is their first time or their 15th. I’ve made a Summer Camp Checklist printable to help you make sure you’ve remembered the basics. This summer camp packing list will have them fully prepared with every from bug spray to a journal to record their experience.
What To Pack For Child’s Summer Camp Sleepaway
The age of your child will certainly play a part in what things they need to pack for summer camp sleepaway as well as the type of camp they are going to. My daughter will be attending a 2 week long fine arts camp this summer for band. Her pack list will most definitely include lots of extra things. Sports camps, dance and art camps, and other specialty camps will also require specific items in addition to this basic list.
The length of time your child will be at camp also plays a part in what to pack. Some summer camps, like Camp Invention, are day camps, other camps are weeks long. If your child is just going off to day camp the pack list will not be nearly as long as a child who will be away for 2 weeks. Some camps may have laundry facilities and others may not so be sure to find out. If there is no washing machine available, kids will want to have a fresh pair of underwear and socks for each day of camp. Even summer camps can have cool nights and rainy days so be sure to pack a sweatshirt and a rain jacket.
The type of camp may also require extras, for example if you need to have sports or band equipment. Most likely your child will have access to swimming in a pool, lake, beach, etc. They will probably want to have 2 swimsuits so they always have a dry one handy.
While this checklist includes all the basics there are things you may want or need to add. If your child is going to be away from home for the first time, consider hiding little notes throughout their pack. Also consider packing a favorite stuffed animal for comfort. If a teen is heading off to camp they will likely want to pack toilietries, make-up, gadgets, and other “teen” type items. Be sure to check with the camp to make sure what is allowed and not allowed. Many camps do not allow electronic devices. Every camp and every child is different so your list will always be unique to your camper.
Sending along money is important. Most sleepaway summer camps let you put money on an account for your child at check in. This lets them purchase snacks that are not included in the program and other incidentals they may want or need. This does not have to be a large amount but a little bit is a good idea.
You’ll also want to be sure to pack any regular medications your child needs. Be sure to hand over the medications to the camp nurse and discuss each one at the time of check in.
Free Printable Summer Camp Checklist
Be sure to print out our Summer Camp Checklist and check these items off as you pack! This summer camp packing list includes all the essentials and some useful extras. Simply right click and select print. Or if you have a mac, drag image to the desktop and then select file from the top screen menu and then select print.
I hope you find this summer camp packing list helpful. Do you have a child signed up for a sleepaway Summer Camp? What is one essential thing you make sure they have packed?
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Nicole Estrella says
Your kids smiles are too cute. My oldest would love to go to a full week of summer camp but I find them way too costly.
Annie {Stowed Stuff} says
My kids start summer camp in July. I need to get all their stuff in order. Great list!