A calm, practical approach to getting everything ready.
Packing for sleepaway camp is its own category of family project. It's part logistics, part emotional preparation, and, if you let it, part excitement ritual.
Here's how to approach it without turning your living room into a war zone.
Start With the List
Your camp's packing list is your bible. Don't improvise until you've covered everything on it first. Camps think through their lists carefully. They know what gets used, what gets lost, and what ends up on the floor of a cabin.
Buy Duplicates of the Basics
We’re talking about socks, underwear, and t-shirts. Buy more than you think you need. Kids at camp wear things out, lose things, and use things in ways that defy explanation. More is more here while still not overpacking.
Trunk vs. Duffel
Many sleepaway camps use trunks as the primary storage piece. Some use duffels. Know which your camp prefers and test the size before you pack everything in.
Labeling System
Find a labeling system and use it consistently. Labels should go on clothing (inside), water bottles, containers, toiletry bags, and any gear. It adds time up front and saves enormous headaches later.
Pack With Your Child
Let your child know where everything is and have them help organize it. It gives them ownership over their space and removes the "where is my ___" panic on day two.
The Bottom Line
Packing isn't glamorous but doing it well is one of the most loving things you can do to set your child up for a great summer.
Camp Specialists has been connecting families to their perfect camps since 1992 – always free of charge.
Stay tuned for more, and send us your questions on Instagram – we’re just getting started.
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