How to Pack for Camp

Packing for Summer Camp

Pick your camp. Don’t choose a camp based on something you don’t enjoy like computer programming, if you don’t like it. Research different camps based on your interests. There are so many different camps today that vary in a wide array of specialties. A popular camp for young kids is rock camp. This teaches younger children about the history of rock and the rudiments of a rock instrument.

Gather your personal items. Your personal items are items or clothing you own that you cannot live without. This doesn’t include forms of electronics. For most camps these days, one aim is to remove yourself from electronics. Personal items are small knick-knacks that hold sentimental value to you like a doll, photograph, or charm.

Organize your clothes. Depending on the duration of your camp, you’ll need a variety of clothing options. You should try to stay on the light side of packing. Consider the following for a one week camp, and double the amount for a two week camp: 6 short sleeve shirts 1 long sleeve shirt 4 pairs of shorts 1 swim suit 1 light jacket/sweatshirt 6 pairs of underwear 6 pairs of socks 1 baseball cap 1 pair of sneakers 1 pair of sandals

Bring additional supplies. It might be more enjoyable if you bring some additional supplies like a day pack. Instead of bringing electronics for entertainment bring books or comic books. It could also be useful to bring a journal and a pen.

Research your camp. All camps offer different services. Look into what your camp recommends you bring. These are to be taken seriously and can be adapted depending on the person. After registering for the camp, you should receive a packet of information either in the mail or through email.

Bring specific items. Depending on what camp you’ve chosen, you may be required to bring specific supplies. Check the checklist and information provided by each camp. Camps want you to be prepared and will give you the information of what you should expect well before the camp starts.

Preparing for a Backpacking Camp

Understand backpacking. Backpacking is the ultimate form of camping in the wilderness. It allows you and your group to carry everything you need for a successful and safe hike. Backpacking is also an exhausting endeavor. Evaluate your physical and mental strength before committing to a backpacking trip. This will help both you and your group.

Understand packing a backpack. Most modern backpacks are top loaded giving you access to the main compartment through the top. The bottom of your pack should be reserved for items to be used in setting up camp like a tent. All heavy items should be positioned in the center of the pack. This includes pots, pans and other cookware. The top portion of your pack should include all the supplies you might need during your hike like snacks, tools, and a map.

Pick a backpack. Check if your program provides a backpack for campers. Some will allow you to bring your own. You’ll probably need an extended trip or multi-day pack. These are anywhere from 50 liters to larger. Get fit for your backpack at an outdoors store to avoid injury.

Gather additional supplies. You will definitely need certain supplies regardless of your trip. These supplies include a headlamp, sunscreen, matches/lighter, multi-tool pocket knife, and a water bottle. Most camps won’t require you to bring food and cookware. You could play it safe by bringing nuts or other types of energy snacks. Make sure you bring a strong sealable bag to avoid animals from interfering with you.

Pack the right clothing. For a summer backpacking trip you should bring multiple wicking t-shirts and underwear. Wicking material allows air to breath through your clothes. You should also bring a rain jacket, sweatshirt, and a baseball cap or a hat that shades your face.

Check the program’s recommendations. Every program is different. Some trips specialize in winter backpacking trips. These are intense trips that require additional planning and preparation.

Simplifying Your Luggage

Invest in a compression sack. Compression sacks are designed to compress your clothing to free up space in your suitcase. There are several brands that use a similar design. The bag is designed to compress your clothes together and remove all air from the space. This could end up creating wrinkles. Be sure to roll your clothes instead of folding them.

Pack a light load. Utilize all the space of your luggage by ensuring all pockets of the space are occupied and well distributed. Although it is good to come prepared, you will have access to running water at some point, so washing clothes won't be off the table. Minimizing the clothes you bring to a minimum will open opportunities for other uses of your suitcase. Leave behind the tough decision. If you cannot decide if you should bring a harmonica set, don’t bring it. Trust your instincts, but don’t limit yourself too much. Camp is about having fun. Consider each item after minimizing your clothing. Truly think about each potential item and ask yourself “will I use this enough to justify bringing it?” Don’t let an through by saying, “yes, I plan to use this. . . maybe.”

Consider simple forms of entertainment. You will probably have some sort of down time at camp. Instead of bringing your blackjack set, just bring a deck of cards. Instead of a football that could become bulky when packing, bring a Frisbee. Everyone enjoys a quick Frisbee toss now and again. It is also a great ice breaker in meeting new friends.

Bring a collapsible bag. You might create crafts or even have the opportunity to bring goodies home with you. Instead of creating a nightmare at the end of your trip, bring an extra bag that can easily fold into your bag. This is also a great place to store dirty clothes for the return trip.