How do I know what to pack for summer camp?

As a parent, sending your kid off to camp can be overwhelming. To help prep, we’ve curated a proper summer camp checklist to cover every camp activity (think campfire songs, roasted s’mores, canoe rides, and endless wilderness to explore). 

The following camping must-haves are ideal for every summer camp your child will travel to, whether that be sports camp, horse riding camp, swim camp, or a traditional outdoor exploration camp.  

Start with the basics: Summer Camp Apparel for Kids 

Versatility is important for a camp wardrobe. Breathable, durable, water and dirt-resistant materials will perform better and stay cleaner for longer: a key to camp success. Comfort is key, so include the following on your summer camp packing list.  

• Hoodies - kids love hoodies for good reason. Pack one for everyday wear and they may wear it every day! 

• Shirts (a mix of long and short sleeved shirts in breathable, dirt-repellent materials) 

• Shorts, Pants or Leggings (durability is key – no one wants to wear pants with holes in them all week!) 

• Sun hats/Caps

Footwear for every summer camp activity 

From the water to the hiking trails or the sports field, proper footwear can make or break your kid’s summer camp experience. Prepare your kid for camp with these footwear styles. 

• Sneakers for sports, capture the flag, hiking, or other active adventures 

• Barefoot shoes for casual wear and comfort  

• Sandals for the hottest days or visits to the beach/pool 

• Water shoes for swimming 

Parent tip: Have your child break in their new shoes before camp begins!  

What kind of swimwear do kids need for camp? 

Summer camp kids should be prepared to swim, canoe, kayak, and play on the beach. From rivers and lakes to pools, kids will play in the water daily, so be sure to pack items that are quick-drying and durable enough for daily use. 

• Quick-drying, protective water shoes  

• Life Jackets or Floaties (depending on your child’s swimming ability) 

• Swim Goggles  

• Swimsuit (pack a few, so your child always has a dry one)  

• UPF 50+ rash guard (more on UPF sun protective clothing below!) 

Keep them sunburn-free with sun protective UPF apparel and accessories 

UPF pieces offering good coverage can reduce the need to apply and re-apply sunblock (which is a big win for kids and counselors!).  

• UV Protective Apparel (choose sun hoodies or long sleeve UPF shirts for maximum sun protection) 

• UPF 50 + sun hat (a wide-brimmed sun hat is best) 

• Sunglasses  

Did you know: UPF 50+ clothing lets kids play outside up to 50x longer without the risks of exposure. 

Keep you camper happy, rain or shine, with these outerwear pieces 

Camp weather can change quickly. Keep your camper dry, warm, and happy by picking the right jackets. Prioritize outerwear that’s waterproof, lightweight, and can be tied around their waist when not worn.  

• Rain Jackets for hikes or rainstorms 

• Fleece Jackets for cool nights around the cabin or campfire 

• Outdoor pants (or an outdoor jumpsuit for smaller day campers) 

Don’t forget these (easily forgettable) summer camp essentials 

Pack plenty of these daily essentials for your camper. These basics don’t exactly have to be basic, though. Invest in quality to ensure a comfortable camp experience. 

• Undergarments  

• Socks (pack 2 pairs per day) 

• Sleepwear  

Just for fun: camping entertainment must haves for kids 

In addition to all the apparel and outerwear essentials, your child will also want to pack some entertainment items that will keep them busy or engaged with other campers in their downtime. Your child’s camp will send along a list of suggestions or approved items, and it’ll look a little something like this.  

• Books  

• Pens  

• Binoculars 

• Magnifying glass 

• Stationary and pre-stamped envelopes  

• Disposable camera  

• Bracelet making supplies  

• Card games 

Where to Shop for Your Camp Packing List 

Now that you know what you need to prepare your child for an exciting summer camp experience, you’re wondering where to get it all.  We have made it easy to shop for summer camp with our high-performance, kids-specific gear that is made for the outdoors. All the good stuff on our summer camp packing list can be found right here.