How to Pack a Child for Summer Camp or Summer Camp? A Checklist of Essentials

Camp or summer camp is a true adventure for a child – full of new acquaintances, late-night fun, and their first real independence. For parents, it often means a logistical challenge in the form of a suitcase, the contents of which should be practical and suitable for various activities. Are you unsure how to pack your child for summer camp? We're here to help with a ready-made checklist of essentials!

What to pack for summer camp for your child? A checklist to help you prepare.

Typically, the camp organizer sends parents a general list of things to bring in advance. It's a good idea to use this as a starting point, especially if the trip has a specific focus, such as sports, sailing, or art. Check the weather forecast for your destination and confirm your child's accommodations. Now we can get down to specifics!

Clothes – comfort first

During summer camp, comfort, functionality, and whether you can roll around in the grass or jump across the walkways at the rope park are key . So, pack comfortable clothes made from natural, skin-friendly materials. The key is:

• a few T-shirts,
• two sweatshirts (including one warmer one),
• at least one pair of long pants ( leggings for girls and sweatpants for boys are also acceptable),
• several pairs of shorts, underwear and socks (remember to bring spare sets).

Don't forget pajamas, a swimsuit, and a hat for sun protection. Even if your trip is in summer, it's a good idea to pack a light raincoat in your suitcase—the weather can be unpredictable.

Practical shoes that will stand the test in a variety of conditions

Girls' shoes and boys' shoes are often a hassle because they take up a lot of space in your luggage. It's best to limit yourself to three pairs and pack:

• comfortable sports shoes,
• shower flip-flops,
• sandals for warmer days.

If the camp program includes trips to the forest or mountains, consider adding a pair of sturdy trekking shoes to your luggage.

Cosmetics and other accessories – how to find the golden mean when it comes to the number of products?

A child's summer camp cosmetics bag should include a toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, shower gel, a comb or brush, sunscreen, and a small amount of deodorant. It's also worth adding some tissues and wet wipes – they'll be useful on the bus or on the trip.

The basic pack should also include two towels – one for bathing and one smaller – as well as a small backpack for outdoor activities. It's a good idea for your child to have a water bottle, a jacket, and snacks in it. Also, pack a lightweight water bottle – preferably with a spout that can be attached to the backpack.

What to Give Your Child for Summer Camp? Little Gadgets That Make a Big Difference

Some items seem unnecessary at first, but then turn out to be invaluable. A flashlight can be useful during a forest hunt, and a separate bag for dirty laundry will help keep your suitcase organized. If your child takes their phone, it's worth keeping a small power bank in the suitcase to protect yourself in case the charger gets lost.

Tip: You can label clothes and accessories with a fabric marker or sew in your child's name. This will make it easier to find a missing sweatshirt after a fun day at camp. It's also a good idea to separate clothes into sets and pack them in separate bags – this will help your child manage the contents of their suitcase more quickly.

A well-thought-out checklist is half the battle when packing for summer camp. It's best to prepare it a few days in advance and pack with your child. It's a great way to ensure you don't forget important items. An added bonus? Your child will immediately know what's in their suitcase and where.