Packing correctly for camp is actually one of the most significant things that will determine whether your child’s camping experience is enjoyable or not. It’s all about getting the essentials right.
Packing for your child’s holiday camp can really become a complicated task if you don’t know what to expect. It’s sometimes difficult to get the balance right between what your child needs to survive and enjoy camp and what is luxury. Some parents pack too little as they expect an informal “survival camp” where all they need is the clothes on their back. Other parents seem to pack the entire household as they expect that their child won’t survive if they don’t have everything in their bedroom.
Here are some packing essentials that you should always pack in your child’s luggage before they head over to a sleepover camp:
1. Checklist of things to do before packing:
- It’s important to ask the camp about their luggage restrictions, as you may not be able to pack some luxury items like skateboards etc.
- Ensure that all your child’s clothing and personal items are clearly labeled with your child’s full name.
2. Medication:
One of the most important things you need to send with your child is definitely their emergency/chronic medication. This would include Asthma pumps, Cortisone, Epipens, and ADHD medication etc. This medication needs to be carefully packed in an easily accessible, zip lock bag with a clear description and dosage information.
3. Day bag with essentials inside:
Have a backpack with essential items inside for your child’s daily activities:
- Water bottle
- Sun Stick/Sun block lotion
- Bathing Costume
- Beach Towel
- Peak Cap/Sun Hat
- Flip Flops
- Takkies/Trainers
- Raincoat/Waterproof jacket
- Insect Repellent
- 3. Clothing:
Old, inexpensive, casual clothing is the best type of clothing for camp. Skirts and dresses aren’t recommended for camp. Every camper should have the following items packed in their bags in the quantity relating to the number of days that they will be spending at camp:
- Shorts
- Tracksuit pants
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Underwear
- Sleepwear
- Beanie
- Laundry Bag (To separate the clean stuff from the dirty. This can be a simple plastic bag.)
4. Personal / Toiletry Items:
Even at camp, feeling fresh and clean makes you feel good. Personal hygiene is essential to enjoy the outdoor experience and keep all campers feeling confident throughout the day. The following items should be packed in a toiletry bag:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hair brush and shampoo
- Shower gel
- Deodorant and/or antiperspirant
- Bath Towel (In addition to a swimming towel)
- Shaving gear / Feminine Products/ Hair dryer (if applicable)
5. Other sleepover camp essentials:
The primary purpose of camping is to relish the leisure of the outdoors and get in touch with nature in the company of other people. Below are a few other camping essentials you should to take to camp:
- Sleeping Bag
- Torch
- Pen & Paper
- Snacks
- An item of something that you enjoy doing. For example, a book if you enjoy reading, or a skateboard with your protective gear if you enjoy skateboarding).
Simplify the preparation process by refering to this packing list when your child goes on their next sleepover camp. You can’t go wrong!
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