Kid's summer camp packing

The list adapts to you

When you add it, the checklist asks a couple of questions and keeps only the items that fit your situation.

• Will there be swimming? NoYes

What's inside

1. Paperwork: booking, consent form, ID copy

   Booking confirmation, parental consent, a copy of the child's ID. Ask the camp for their full list — it varies.

2. Medical forms — mind the validity windows

   Camps require a recent medical clearance, and some certificates are valid only days before arrival. Time the doctor's visit precisely.

3. Label ALL belongings with a fabric marker

   The cabin will have ten identical black t-shirts. Labeled things come home; unlabeled ones don't.

4. Clothes per the camp's list — with spares

   Pack clothes you don't mind ruining: paint, campfires and grass stains are forever. There's probably no laundry.

5. Socks and underwear — one per day plus half again

   The thing that always runs out. No one ever regretted an extra pair of socks.

6. Warm hoodie or fleece

   Campfire evenings and post-rain nights are cold even in July.

7. Rain poncho

   A light poncho packs smaller than an umbrella and can't break. Camp activities don't stop for rain.

8. Sun hat or cap

   A cap or sun hat — required for outdoor time in the heat. Bring two: one will get lost.

9. Shoes: two pairs + flip-flops

   Main sneakers and a backup pair (the first will be soaked by day one), flip-flops for the shower.

10. Toiletries: the full set in a wash bag

    Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap in a case, shampoo, sponge, shower and foot towels, comb. All in a carry-friendly wash bag.

11. Insect repellent and sunscreen

    Mosquitoes are the enemy of sleep, the midday sun — of skin. Teach your kid to apply both on their own.

12. Small daypack for outings

    For hikes and day trips: water, poncho, hat. The big suitcase doesn't go hiking.

13. Water bottle

    Unbreakable, leak-proof, labeled.

14. Flashlight

    Night walks to the bathroom and after-lights-out stories — the flashlight covers all critical needs. Spare batteries too.

15. A little pocket money

    Small bills for ice cream at the kiosk. Check camp policy — some hold cash with the counselors.

16. A copy of the packing list — inside the suitcase

    Your kid will repack by this list and leave nothing behind. Works better than any phone reminders.

17. Medicines — only via the camp nurse

    Hand regular medicines to the camp nurse with the doctor's instructions. No meds in the suitcase — that's a safety rule for the whole cabin.

18. A small comfort item from home

    A small toy, photo or lucky charm. The first nights away are noticeably easier with it.

19. A card game for the cabin

    A compact game is the fastest way to make friends on night one.

20. Check the camp's phone policy

    Some camps collect phones and allow an hour a day. Agree on call times in advance — and don't panic over silence.

21. Swimsuit — 2 of them Yes

    One dries after the morning swim while the other goes to the afternoon one.

22. Beach towel Yes

    Separate from the shower towel — this one lives on the beach and in the sand.

23. Water shoes Yes

    Pebbles, shells and hot sand stop being a problem.