What to Pack for Camp: Day Camp & Sleepaway Essentials
Wondering what to pack for camp? This simple checklist covers day camp must-haves and everything your child needs for sleepaway camp too.
Getting Camp-Ready: What to Pack and What You Really Don’t Want to Forget
If your house looks like a mini outdoor gear store this time of year, you’re not alone. Whether your kid is headed to day camp down the street or packing their bags for sleepaway camp, figuring out what to pack for camp can feel like a full-time job. Sunscreen? Obviously. Bug spray? Yep. But what about those little things that make camp smoother (like a fast-drying towel or goggles that don’t tangle in hair)? This guide covers all the essentials—plus a few helpful extras—so you can send your camper off feeling prepared and ready for fun.
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What to Pack for Day Camp: The Essentials Your Kid Will Actually Use
Day camp may be shorter than sleepaway camp, but packing the right gear makes all the difference in helping your kid stay comfortable, prepared, and ready for fun. These basics apply to sleepaway camp too—so start here no matter where your camper is headed!
Mesh Backpack
Zippered Clear Container
Water Bottle
Reusable and labeled to avoid mix-ups.
Mini First Aid Kit
Just the basics: bandaids, sanitizer, and tissues.
Mini Sunscreen
Travel-size for easy reapplication during the day.
Mini Bug Spray + Bracellets
Sunglasses
Hat
Towel
Quick-dry and compact is best for pool or water play.
Goggles
Water Shoes
Wet/Dry Bag + Change of Clothes
For storing wet or messy clothes.
Lunchbox + Ice Pack
Keeps lunch fresh if it’s not provided.
Nap Sack + Comfort Item
For rest time, especially in younger groups.
Cooling Towel
Helps kids cool off on hot summer days.
Snack Bag with Snacks
Non-messy, nut-free, and easy to open.
Labels
On everything—so it all comes back home.
Extra Items to Pack for Sleepaway Camp: Everything They’ll Need for Overnight Stays
If your child is heading off to sleepaway camp, you’ll need to go beyond the day camp basics. These extra items will help them stay clean, comfy, and prepared while they’re away from home—whether it’s for one night or two weeks.
Labeled Clothing for Each Day
Pack one full outfit per day, plus 2–3 extras for unexpected messes. Label everything—trust me.
Pajamas + Slippers or Slides
Comfy PJs and easy slip-on shoes make getting ready for bed (or bathroom runs) much easier in a shared space.
Laundry Bag
Send a lightweight bag for dirty clothes—it helps keep things separate and slightly more organized.
Bedding + Pillow
Check with the camp, but many ask you to bring a sleeping bag or twin sheet set, pillow, and blanket.
Toiletry Kit
Include toothbrush, toothpaste, soap or body wash, shampoo, hairbrush, deodorant, and any other daily essentials.
Shower Caddy
For trips to the shower house, a plastic caddy is a must have.
Flip Flops
Also a must for trips to the shower
Flashlight or Headlamp
Camps can get really dark at night—especially on the way to the bathroom.
Books, Journal, or Playing Cards
Something quiet for downtime—especially helpful if your camper isn’t into group games all the time.
Stationery + Stamps
Old-school, but sweet. If your child wants to write home, include pre-addressed envelopes and stamps to make it easy.
Sleep Mask and Comfort Item from Home
This blackout eye mask to help your camper fall asleep, plus a favorite stuffy, family photo, or note from you can help ease homesickness.
Fan or Bug Net (If Allowed)
Some camps allow small fans or mosquito nets for extra comfort in cabins—worth checking in advance!
Don’t Forget These Camp Prep Tips
These small things make a big difference in helping your child feel prepared (and keeping you a little more sane, too):
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Label everything. Clothes, shoes, water bottles, even goggles. If it’s not labeled, it’s probably not coming home.
-
Do a practice pack. Let your child help pack and unpack their bag so they know where everything is and feel confident finding it on their own.
-
Check your camp’s rules. Some camps don’t allow snacks, electronics, or certain toiletries—double check so nothing gets taken away on day one.
-
Pack a little comfort. A note from home, a photo, or a small stuffed animal can ease homesickness more than you’d think.
-
Think easy-clean. Choose quick-dry towels, mesh bags, and clothes that can handle dirt, water, and snack spills.
Whether you’re packing for day camp or sleepaway camp, a little preparation goes a long way. With the right gear (and a bit of labeling magic), your child will be ready to dive into the fun—and you’ll feel a little more at ease sending them off. You’ve got this!
Don’t Forget These Camp Prep Tips
These small things make a big difference in helping your child feel prepared (and keeping you a little more sane, too):
-
Label everything. Clothes, shoes, water bottles, even goggles. If it’s not labeled, it’s probably not coming home.
-
Do a practice pack. Let your child help pack and unpack their bag so they know where everything is and feel confident finding it on their own.
-
Check your camp’s rules. Some camps don’t allow snacks, electronics, or certain toiletries—double check so nothing gets taken away on day one.
-
Pack a little comfort. A note from home, a photo, or a small stuffed animal can ease homesickness more than you’d think.
-
Think easy-clean. Choose quick-dry towels, mesh bags, and clothes that can handle dirt, water, and snack spills.
Whether you’re packing for day camp or sleepaway camp, a little preparation goes a long way. With the right gear (and a bit of labeling magic), your child will be ready to dive into the fun—and you’ll feel a little more at ease sending them off. You’ve got this!
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