Packing the proper clothes for overnight camp makes the experience more comfortable for the camper. Pack enough shirts and shorts for the duration of the camp, unless it is for the entire summer and the clothes will be laundered. Include sweatpants and shirts, long underwear and pajamas. Cabins can be drafty and your child should dress in layers to keep warm. Most camps have places to swim, so your camper will need a swimsuit and towel. Pack a baseball cap, socks, undergarments and athletic shoes. Also pack protection from the rain, such as a rain coat or poncho.
Your camper should bring any toiletries they use on a daily basis. This includes hair care, such as shampoo, conditioner, hairbrush and a shower cap. Dental items should also be included, such as their toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash. Also bring lotion, face wash, body soap, deodorant, bug repellent and sunscreen. Other optional items include face lotion, hair detangler, hair clips, ties and eye drops.
Each camp offers different sleeping arrangements. A standard arrangement is bunk beds, where campers can sleep either in a sleeping bag on the mattress or with blankets. If you choose blankets, pack a fitted twin-size sheet to cover the mattress in addition to a warm blanket. Cabins tend to be cooler at night. There is no guarantee how well insulated the cabin will be. You should also pack a pillow.
Pack additional items that will enhance your child's experience while at camp. They can record activities in a journal or notebook and take pictures of friends, activities and scenery with a camera. Pack books, magazines and a flashlight so they can read during down time or unwind before going to sleep at night. If your camper would like to send a letter home from camp, pack envelopes, stamps and writing utensils. Encourage them to remember their experience at camp in some way.
