How to Pack for Summer Camp

For both parents and campers, packing for summer camp can be exciting… and daunting. After all, there are no Walmarts in the wilderness, and your camper can’t simply run to the store to buy something they forgot.

To ensure your camper has everything they need, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the most essential camp items. And, of course, we provide the perfect way to transport it all: your very own Kangaroo Footlocker.

How to Pack for Summer Camp

Your camp will provide you with a list of items they recommend. That’s the best place to start. Our list includes universal needs for any camper packing for summer camp.

The Basics

Want to know how to pack for summer camp? Start with the basics. The most obvious items are the easiest to forget.

Be sure to pack:

• Appropriate clothing — your camper needs options suitable to different weather conditions
• Costumes for themed nights and events
• Trash bags for dirty or wet clothes
• Sun protection, including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Tennis shoes and sandals
• Swim gear, including multiple bathing suits, towels, and a pair of goggles
• A toiletry bag stocked with bathroom essentials
• Bedding, including a pillow, sheets, and a sleeping bag
• A flashlight with batteries
• Bug spray
• A portable fan
• A reusable water bottle
• Stationary and stamps to write letters home
• Pictures of family and friends

And, of course, you’ll want a durable Kangaroo Footlocker to keep everything safe!

Above and Beyond

After you’ve packed the basics, you should still have plenty of room for extra items. Your Kangaroo Footlocker has more than 8,000 cubic inches, after all.

The following items will enhance your camper’s experience:

• A rain jacket or poncho (a little drizzle won’t stop camp fun!)
• Books and a deck of cards for downtime in the cabin
• A foam mattress topper
• Duct tape for labels or fixing things that break at camp
• A disposable camera to capture the fun (the vintage way!)
• A small folding chair (sitting on the ground gets old fast)

What to Leave at Home

To avoid confiscations, check your camp’s list of prohibited items. Your camper will probably have to leave these items at home:

• Internet-connected devices, including cell phones and tablets (enjoy being disconnected!)
• Fireworks and lighters
• Gaming systems
• Glass items
• Pocket knives

Extra Tips

You’ve double-checked your packing list, triple-checked your inventory, and quadruple-checked your route to the drop-off area — but you still can’t shake the feeling you’ve forgotten something. Follow these extra tips about how to pack for summer camp:

• Label everything with your camper’s name. Some items might need adhesive labels, but a permanent marker is all you need for smaller items. For clothing, use an iron-on label.
• Don’t be stingy with spares. There’s always room for extra batteries, socks, and underwear. You may also want to pack extra pens, towels, water bottles, and toiletries.
• And finally, order your Kangaroo Footlocker early so you can beat the rush. 2024 preorders are open now for sold-out colors!