If you’ve ever packed your kids for sleepaway camp and thought, this must be what it feels like to prep for a Mars mission, welcome. You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not overthinking it. (Okay, maybe a little. But, once again—welcome.)
Between the muddy activities and theme nights, it’s enough to make even the most Type A among us question everything. The good news? We’re here. With a system. Obviously.
So whether you’re packing up a nervous first-timer or a seasoned camp pro who now insists on curating their own outfits, we’ve got the go-to guide to make it all a little easier, prettier, and way less chaotic.
Up First: Our Top Tips
1. Edit, Then Conquer
Step one: pull everything out. Step two: take a deep breath and put half of it back. Your child does not need three sweatshirts, two flashlights, or a “backup backup” stuffed animal.
2. Don’t Skip the Practice Round
Let them try packing and unpacking at home. When they know what they have and where it goes, they’re way more likely to keep things semi-together at camp.
3. Pouch Everything
Packing cubes or clear pouches are your new BFFs. Separate by day, by category, or by activity. Your kid will thank you (probably in five years, but still).
4. Label Like You Mean It
If it’s going to camp, it gets a label. That includes socks, toothpaste, flashlights, and the container holding the toothpaste. Thankfully, there are tons of options online for custom name stickers that stick to just about anything, plus sew-in labels for clothes and linens.
Thankfully, the internet is a magical place filled with custom name labels in every shape, size, and color. Here’s what to use and where to use it:
- Stick-On Labels: These are your go-to for anything with a smooth surface—water bottles, flashlights, toiletries, snack containers, books, you get the gist. Shop here!
- Iron-On Labels: Great for clothes, socks, and towels. Just a quick press with an iron and they’re not going anywhere. Yes, even through the camp laundry room, which we all know is a little bit lawless. Shop here!
- Sew-In Labels: These are perfect for the VIP items—bedding, blankets, stuffed animals, anything your kid would lose their mind over if it didn’t come home. A little effort goes a long way. Shop here!
- Stamp Labels: Stamp it once and call it a day. Ideal for fast, repeatable labeling on anything fabric. Shop here!
- Shoe Labels: Because nothing sparks cabin confusion like ten pairs of the same water shoes. These go right inside and actually stay put. Shop here!
Ready to turn this packing panic into a perfectly labeled masterpiece? Keep scrolling for the checklist that covers literally everything.
Camp Checklist
1. Outfits by Day
Start with the number of nights and check the camp’s schedule. Then lay out daily outfits and pack them separately in packing squares labeled by day, so your kid isn’t tearing through their duffel like a raccoon in a trash can.
- 1 outfit per day (shorts, tees, tanks, etc.)
- A few backup outfits (because: mud)
- 2–3 swimsuits
- 1–2 cover-ups
- Pajamas (at least two sets)
- Underwear + socks (more than you think they’ll need)
- Sneakers
- Shower shoes or flip-flops
- Theme night extras (fun hats, silly sunglasses, whatever chaos the camp newsletter suggested)
2. Toiletries
Keep it simple and easy to grab in a hanging toiletry bag that contains items by category like this one.
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Floss
- Shampoo + conditioner
- Soap or body wash (with a loofah!)
- Face wipes
- Hairbrush or comb
- Bug spray (wearable stickers that double as mosquito repellant? Say no more.)
- Sunscreen (this roll-on one is super kid-friendly!)
Note: Pick versions they’re already used to. Camp is not the time to test-drive a new scent or formula.
3. Bed + Bath Linens
A cozy setup makes all the difference after a long day of swimming and s’mores.
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- 2 fitted sheets (one for the mattress, one just in case)
- 2 pillowcases
- 1 bath towel
- 1 beach towel
- 1 comfort item (stuffie, blanket, or anything that feels like home)
4. Rain Gear: Because Camp Weather Doesn’t Care
Let’s be honest: it’s not camp without at least one downpour.
- Lightweight rain jacket (preferably with a carrying case)
- Waterproof shoes (mud happens)
- Wet bag for soggy clothes
5. Just-for-Fun (and Just-in-Case)
These are the little things that make camp feel extra special (and ready for anything).
- Flashlight + extra batteries (it will get left on, we promise)
- Stationery set
- Water bottle (labeled within an inch of its life)
- Mini handheld fan
Final Words of Wisdom
At the end of the day, packing for camp isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating systems that help your kid feel prepared, empowered, and maybe even a little excited to brush their teeth without you reminding them.
You’ve got this. And if something gets left behind? That’s what camp friends (and care packages) are for.
