Summer Camp Favorites

Our annual Summer Camp Favorites Guide is here and while each camp may have their own unique packing lists, there’s a handful of items that are helpful at any camp. If your son or daughter is going to summer camp this year, be sure to browse our tried and true camp favorites as well as some other helpful products for camp. And scroll down for resources on camp safety and preparing for camp. 

This post is sponsored by Zig Rig Trunks. Scroll down for an exclusive discount for our readers!

Camp Trunks

When it comes to camp trunks, Zig Rig Camp Trunks are truly in a category of their own. These trunks are virtually indestructible yet surprisingly lightweight, which is great for both campers and parents. Zig Rig trunks are water resistant and the built-in wheels and latches are designed to last (no more broken hinges mid-season!).

Flying to camp? Zig Rig camp trunks are flight tested and approved, so if camp requires flying gear across the country, you can breathe easy knowing this trunk is built for exactly that.

Zig Rig camp trunks come in 12 cute colors so every camper can pick one that feels like theirs. (You can put decals on them, too!) Best of all, they come with a lifetime guarantee.Whether a camper is headed down the road or across the country, Zig Rig Camp Trunks are a great investment and can be used by siblings down the road. Use code DOSAYGIVE at checkout for 10% off!

And don’t forget to order with the super helpful lid organizer to keep everything super organized throughout their camp stay.

Organization

When it comes to packing, the key is to make everything accessible to your child once you are gone. If your child is going to camp for 1-2 weeks and clothes will not be laundered, using Ziploc bags to sort each day’s clothes is an easy way to do this, plus it is a major space saver. 

A shower caddy might be handy for helping your child identify his or her toiletries in the bathroom and easily keeping them organized in one place. This one is already made for you or you can DIY it with monogram or name decals.

A laundry bag is another essential because not only will they have an easy spot for dirty clothes, but it gives them a place to put clothes that they can’t fit back in their trunk when they are packing to come home. 

 

Other Organization

Clothes

The secret when it comes to clothes is to make sure you don’t pack your child’s favorite outfit or pricey items because they can get lost or ruined easily, especially among the other campers’ clothes. Swimsuits are a must and we have a guide for children and tween girls.

Shoes

No need to pack a lot of shoes. A pair of tennis shoes that are okay to get dirty or wet, water shoes to wear to the lake or pool (Crocs are most popular), and cheap flip flops to wear in the shower. Chacos are a popular water shoe, but are pricey. If you are looking to spend less money, these Native shoes function well as water shoes for both girls and boys.

Toiletries

Bringing the typical toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are important, but make sure not to forget sunscreen and bug spray. Pack you children both of these and make sure they know where it is in their trunk or suitcase. 

Another item not to splurge on? Towels! These are under $10 at Target and come in several cute colors! A personalized toothbrush case might be good to keep your child’s tooth brush from getting lost!

Stationery 

Extra Essentials

Some packing lists may include these, but others may not. It is absolutely essential to pack your child a water bottle that they can refill at each meal. This personalized wide mouth bottle is a great one as well. Staying hydrated will help keep them healthy and allow them to enjoy their camp experience to the fullest!

A clipboard and stationery are fun items to include to help make it easier for your child to write home. A cute birthday present heading into summer, too. Joy Creative Shop is my go-to for stationery and now they have these fun camp sets. Make sure to check out this post for care package inspiration.

One thing you might want to include: A little gift for your child’s camp counselor or think about sending something during camp. They’ll appreciate it so much!

Preparing For Camp

As camp is on the horizon for many children this summer, make sure to see our guest posts with safety tips on choosing and preparing for camp and camp drop off. 

Campaign for Camp Safety has a detailed checklist of questions to inquire of camps when registering children for summer camps and BeforeYouGoToCamp.com has information on how to properly vet youth-serving organizations.