Top 10 Things to Pack For Summer Camp
Summer camp is right around the corner, and we all know you can never start packing too early! Here are WWCE’s top 10 must haves at camp:
#1 – BUG REPELLENT! There are many different types of bug repellent you can use, from sprays to roll on to bug bracelets. Some bug repellents use all natural ingredients like lemongrass and citronella. When using a spray, spray it onto your clothing. Hot tip: Bugs love scents found in our shampoos, soaps, and perfumes. Avoid wearing very strong scents while at camp. Besides, you’ll probably just sweat them off anyways ;)
#2 – LAYERS! During summer in the US, temperatures can vary greatly from one state to another AND they can vary a lot throughout the day and from day to night. Make sure to pack long sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, and a jacket or two. Bonus Tip: pack sweaters, jackets, and clothing that are made of synthetic materials that will dry quickly, like fleece or polyester.
#3 – RAIN GEAR! Although it is summer, that doesn’t always mean it’s going to be dry. Make sure to bring at least a water resistant or waterproof jacket. You can also bring rainboots or “paddywackers” as some folks in the US call them. Some counselors will even be sporting waterproof pants or maybe an umbrella. The fun doesn’t have to stop when the rain starts, as long as you have your rain gear!
#4 – SNEAKERS! While at camp you are going to be doing A LOT of walking, running, jumping, skipping, horsing around…. you get the idea. It’s very important to have proper footwear for all of the activities you’re going to be doing. A good pair of sneakers can help make your experience MUCH more comfortable.
#5 – SUN PROTECTION! It’s SUMMER people! That means lots of time spent in the sun. It’s important to wear sunscreen every day. Trust us, you will NOT want to miss out on all the fun because of a silly sunburn. Bonus Tip: Sunscreen expires, so be sure to check the expiration date before use!
#6 – BACKPACK! No matter what type of camp you go to, having a small day pack (like the Osprey PacksSyncro 20L Backpack) will make everyday camp life SO much easier! You’ll be able to bring all your essentials with you. A prepared counselor is the best counselor!
#7 – SANDALS! You didn’t think we’d forget about going to the beach, right?! Remember to pack a pair of sandals for days spent in the sand. Sandals with a strap are best, like Tevas, Chacos, or Crocs.
#8 – CAMERA! We get it, most people use their phone camera these days, but most camps prefer that the phones stay in the cabins and out of sight. If you’d like to be able to snap in-the-moment pictures that you’ll cherish for a lifetime we suggest packing a digital camera, disposable film camera, or polaroid camera. Remember, whatever you bring is coming to CAMP with you, make sure it will be able to withstand the rigors of camp life.
#9 – WATER BOTTLE! Hydration is happiness! Life at camp is go go go, and in the sun and heat it’s very important to STAY HYDRATED! If you bring a water bottle (in your handy-dandy day pack) everywhere you go, you’ll always have plenty of H2O. Some favorite camp brands include: Nalgene, Hydroflask, and Camelback.
#10 – SMILE! No really, your smile! Through long days, food fights, missteps, and mishaps having a positive attitude will be your saving grace at camp. As a counselor your demeanor will directly affect the campers around you, and after all, don’t we all go to camp to JUST HAVE FUN?! You have the opportunity to make this summer one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. What you put in is what you’ll get out of it. So have fun, wear your sunscreen, and SMILE!