We all know that packing camp trunks for the summer can be an overwhelming process. Whether it’s two weeks or eight, it’s essential to keep the packing process both organized and fun.
Jane Abrahams, owner of Jane’s Addiction Organization in Port Washington, shares her top five tips for packing your child for summer camp:
1. Assign a designated staging area within your home (basement, playroom, mudroom). This area will house all of the shopping items purchased, toiletries, clothing piles, equipment and gear.
2. It’s never too early to prepare. Start to familiarize yourself with the packing checklist provided by your camp. Review the guidelines for apparel, accessories and gear needed before you start your shopping.
3. Choose your bags. The best options for each child tend to be one or two soft trunks or cargo bags. Make sure the duffel bag is durable enough with handles made for carrying. When packing, one duffel should be packed with apparel/shoes while the other is filled with accessories, equipment and bedding.
4. If they take it, you label it. Every item that goes to camp must be labeled. Labels will ensure your camper returns home with everything they left with. My favorite labels are sew-in labels or the waterproof sticker labels. They are extremely durable.
5. Lastly, your child can stay organized even while they are at camp. Pack everything up in reusable clear bags to keep their duffel bags organized. Each clothing category and bed and bath items can be packed in individual bags. You can even pack plastic bags by complete outfit for younger campers.
50 Essentials To Pack For Summer Camp
Most camps will give you a list of necessities, but here are some must-haves for young campers:
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Bedding (camp will specify)
- Pillow
- Sweatpants
- Pullover sweatshirt
- Zip sweatshirt
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Bathing Suits
- Cover Up
- Swim goggles
- Flip-flops
- Beach towel
- Sneakers
- Shorts
- T-shirts
- Long sleeve shirts
- Jeans
- Cotton pants or khakis
- Underwear
- Boots
- Flats
- Pajamas
- Robe, slippers
- Tissues
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Nail clippers
- Flashlight
- Dress clothes
- Reusable water bottle
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Deodorant
- Towels
- Facecloths
- Brush
- Comb
- Hair gel
- Shower caddy
- Hair clips, ties
- Bug repellent
- Deodorant
- Laundry bag
- Razors
- Shaving cream
- Feminine products
- Games
- Spending money
Still overwhelmed? Let Jane’s Addiction Organization pack your kids for camp herself. Don’t stress. Once your shopping is done, Jane’s Addiction Organization will do the rest. From labels to packing and everything in between, let Jane’s Addiction Organization pack those camp trunks for you.
Jane’s Addiction Organization is a complete lifestyle service located in Port Washington designed to declutter and organize your home (and life) one space at a time. Learn more at www.janesorganization.com or email jane@janesorganization.com.
