How to Pack for Summer Camp

By Carrie Youngs, Senior Director, NJY Camps/Camp Nah-Jee-Wah

Essential Summer Camp Packing List

There’s something magical about preparing for summer camp. The anticipation of adventure, the excitement of independence, and the joy of imagining your child making new friends and memories that last a lifetime. But let’s be honest, alongside the magic, there’s often a healthy dose of stress. Packing for camp can feel overwhelming. What do they really need? What will they actually use? What if something important gets left behind?

I get it. I’ve helped thousands of families navigate this exact moment, and I promise you’re not alone. Packing doesn’t have to be daunting. With a little organization, some practical tips, and a whole lot of labels, you’ll be setting your camper up for success, comfort, and confidence from day one.

Summer Camp Checklist

Packing for camp is not just about filling a bag, it’s also about helping your child feel confident, prepared, and ready for independence. It’s both a practical and emotional exercise, and with a little planning and a few tricks from my very organized playbook, it can even be fun.

Let’s start with the basics. I recommend a large duffel bag, nothing with wheels. You can find inexpensive options on Amazon, but if you want something that lasts for years and looks great, The Camp Spot has high-quality, customizable duffels.

Towels

I also encourage families to stick with consistency: ten identical towels (Walmart is my go-to). Avoid oversized, plush, hotel-style towels. They’re lovely at home, but at camp they take forever to dry and don’t fit in our cubbies. Go for lightweight, patterned towels, ten of the same, so your camper easily recognizes them.

Label Your Items

Make sure to label everything clearly. I’m talking about every sock, every pair of underwear, every water bottle. My go-to is always a good old-fashioned black Sharpie! However, some items do require labels. For labels, I love Oliver’s Labels. Their camp packages are fantastic. As a bonus, your child can pick out their favorite pattern and feel part of the packing process. You’d be amazed at how easily things disappear at camp and how quickly they’re found again if they have your camper’s name on them, so be sure to stay vigilant and don’t leave anything unlabeled.

Water Bottles

While water bottles are very important in camp, not all water bottles are created equal. Please skip the heavy Stanleys and go with something light, leak-proof, and inexpensive. We do not (and cannot) wash water bottles at camp, so simpler is better.

Toiletries

It is very important to note that toiletries don’t come home with your camper – they’re usually used up and too sticky to salvage. I do recommend sending two plastic shower caddies: one for the shower (with drainage holes and a handle) and one for sink-side items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and hairbrush. Keep in mind: spray and stick sunscreen only, please. It’s easier and faster to apply and ensures we are applying multiple times a day.

Clothes

Your camper will have laundry done once a week, so aim to pack enough clothes for about 9–10 days. Stick with what’s comfortable. This isn’t a fashion show, it’s camp! Send enough underwear and socks (14 pairs is a good number) and don’t forget two full sets of sheets and pillowcases. I always encourage families to buy matching sheet sets so that your camper doesn’t get confused. Also, campers should bring and use a flat sheet, even if they don’t at home, because we don’t wash comforters during the summer.

Shoes

When it comes to footwear, flip-flops are for the shower only. Crocs, slides, and slippers are perfect for walking around the bunk. Sneakers are always best in camp. Send two pairs in case one gets wet after campers can get caught in a rainstorm unexpectedly. Speaking of rain, rain boots are a must. It gets muddy, and camp continues rain or shine. And please invest in a real raincoat, the kind that actually keeps your child dry. It’s the one item I truly believe is worth spending a little more on.

T-Shirts

Every camper at Nah-Jee-Wah needs a white shirt for Friday night Shabbat services. Please don’t forget this. Also, we host tie-dye days and two banquets each summer, so send one plain white t-shirt and one or two nice outfit(s) in a labeled Ziploc bag.

Stationairy

If your camper likes to write letters home, include stationery, stamps, and a clipboard. Digital alarm clocks are helpful since electronics are not allowed. That includes phones, smartwatches, and Kindles. You’re welcome to send books or journals for downtime. And yes, super soakers are allowed, and often encouraged, for our Nah-Jee-Wah campers. We love cooling off with an all-camp water fight.

Summer Camp Opening Day

For Opening Day, pack a small backpack with a bathing suit, towel, Crocs, and water bottle. Your camper will head straight to the pool or activities before their luggage is unpacked.

Enroll Your Child in Our Jewish Summer Camp

One final piece of advice: don’t overpack. Campers will wear their favorite five outfits over and over. There’s no need to send the entire wardrobe. Less is more, and packing light makes it easier for everyone, especially your child.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your camp director. We’re here to help, and we want your camper to feel as prepared and comfortable as possible. Wishing you a summer filled with joy, growth, and yes, a bit of well-labeled laundry!