Not sure what you need to pack for summer camp in America? We've got you. From wellies (yes wellies) to PJs and everything between – here's all the insider intel.

Contents

1. Suitcase or backpack?
2. Summer camp packing tips
3. Clothes
4. Toiletries
5. Small essential items
6. Money
7. Documents
8. Unique items
9. My camp’s packing list
10. What you don’t need to bring

1. Should I pack in a suitcase or backpack?

To backpack or to suitcase – that is the question that haunts fellow summer campers. Ultimately, there are arguments for either case (ha!), but what may be the clincher is your travel plans either before or after camp.

If you're planning on travelling in America around your camp start dates, heading into the national parks, going trekking etc – then a backpack will be your best friend. If you’re opting for more of a city break or hotel hopping – a suitcase would probably work better for you.

Our one bit of advice if going for a backpack, is to invest in one with a side open zip that unzips all the way around vs a toploader backpack. You'll thank us when you're not mining for your last pair of clean socks that are inconveniently right at the bottom of your pack!

2. Summer camp packing tips

Don’t take too many toiletries

Unless you really need a specific product for skincare or haircare, it's best to pack light and buy your toiletries once you’ve arrived at camp. We promise Walmart is the place where all your dreams come true – and you’ll find everything you need toiletries-wise and more!

White t-shirts are your bestie

White t-shirts may seem like a strange choice when going to a camp where you’ll be around kids who love mess. Yet, don’t be fooled, they are the unsung heroes of camp. Whether it’s for sports day, special events or tie dying – having a top you can decorate quickly will prove to be an invaluable item of clothing.

Figure out your footwear

Before you jet off, it’s a great idea to ask your camp if any specific footwear, like walking boots, are needed. This is important so you have suitable footwear for the activities ahead, but it's worth checking with camp first, because they may have some spares knocking about that you can borrow. Which will save valuable packing space.

We all know that the weather can be unpredictable so wellies can be a real lifesaver. Again, your camp may have some spares, but if not, you’ll be able to pick up a pair at Walmart if you can’t fit your own ones in your bag. Just remember to donate them afterwards!

Flip-flops/thongs/jandals are also a must-have. Light and flexible, these can fit in your case with ease. Just be aware that you may be faced with a closed-toe shoe policy at camp. And, yes, that is a real thing. To avoid breaking any toe-related policies, pack a paid or Crocs.

Finally, for all the outdoors exploring and sports activities, having some cheap trainers that you’re not precious about is a must. Be prepared for them to get filthy, or even ruined though.

Remember your home comforts

Make sure your travel pack list includes bringing some things that remind you of home. This won’t only help with homesickness, but will also prove useful for International Day at camp, when you’ll be teaching the campers about your culture.

Flags, postcards, stickers and trinkets – or anything you can think of from your home country are great to bring. The kids love to hear about where you're from and you'll instantly become the most popular camp counsellor if you give them a small souvenir from your home country.

Cosy comfies are key

Make sure to bring your favourite warm, comfortable clothes. Warm days can be deceiving, as the evenings will be chilly. And, trust us when we say that joggers are everyone’s favourite piece of clothing at camp. Be warned, these too may fall victim to a bit of mud, so maybe pack ones you don’t mind getting a bit of wear and tear.

3. What clothes will I need?

Underwear

This one is certainly a need. You don’t pack loads though, as you’ll be able to do your laundry at camp once you’re there.

T-shirts

More t-shirts! (they don’t all have to be white BTW). T-shirts are great for comfort and practicality. Check in with your camp to see what staff tees they provide you with. Also, don't forget to get yourself a BUNAC tee before you head off. They're sustainably made and all profits go to our Youth Access Scholarship Fund.

Swimming gear

You'll always be near some form of water on camp, so having swimwear is also a must. Your camp may have rules about no bikinis, so make sure you’ve got some swimsuits packed.

Shoes

Scroll on up to recap on camp appropriate footwear. Wellies, trainers, it's all covered there!

Hoodies

Hoodies will keep you warm on the chilliest of nights on camp and are a great layering item.

Shorts

Shorts are a go to. Great for comfort, mobility and the hot weather.

Leggings

Leggings are comfortable and great for any sporty activity you’ll be taking part in. Lightweight and fast drying sports fabrics are perfect for camp life.

Socks

Socks have a tendency to vanish into thin air. So, make sure that you’ve packed lots of back ups. Some days, you may even go through several pairs depending on how adventurous your day is.

Waterproof

While we hope your time at camp will be all blue skies and sunshine, June is actually the wettest month in the USA. Something lightweight that fits in your backpack and over layers is our recommendation.

PJs

You’ll only need a few pairs of pjs – the comfier the better. If you’re feeling fancy, feel free to chuck in a pair of slippers or some cosy socks too.

A going out-out outfit

You're guaranteed to have one or two nights off camp, so make sure to bring some fun clothes you feel confident in and get ready to party.

4. Let's talk toiletries

Everyday essentials

Bring toothpaste, a toothbrush, moisturiser, deodorant and sunscreen. We cannot stress the importance of protecting your skin enough. Don’t worry about bulk buying, a trip to Walmart in your first week will ensure you have enough of everything.

Shower products

You’ll want to bring a small bottle of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and face wash for your first week, and then stock up on full-sized bottles once you’re there. A washbag that you can hang off a hook is a great idea for shower block runs.

Protection and medication

Make sure you have the correct amount of any prescription or medication you need before you go. Alternatively, advise your camp if you will need more of this medication during your stay.

Bug spray will also be essential for your time at camp, but this is best to buy once you’re there. All other standard first aid kits will be available at all camps.

5. Small essential items

Electronics

Make sure to pack a phone charger – you won’t believe how many people forget theirs. Also, ensure you have a US travel adaptor, because what use is a phone charger if it doesn’t work? (Also, top plane tip for flying over – most aircraft will have a USB port, so if you have a USBC end to your phone charger, go old school and pack a USB version. Or risk arriving with no battery!).

Headphones are a great way to keep yourself entertained on your journey there and on nights, and time out, when you might want some peace and quiet.

To save space on your travels, you may also want to bring a Kindle or equivalent. If you prefer the old-school way of things, books are also a great way to pass the time, just don’t fill your bag with them!

Having a camera (and selfie stick, if you’re feeling extra) is a good choice if you want to capture some extra special shots on camp.

Sunglasses

It goes without saying, camp is going to be sunny – so make sure you have a pair of sunnies. Don’t bring any super expensive pairs though as you’ll likely lose them and have to buy another pair.

6. Money

Having around USD $150 in cash for when you arrive in the States will come in handy for snack trips and Walmart stock ups. Also, although you may told your bank you're leaving the country, it's not unusual for debit cards to get blocked when you first use them. So having back-up cash in small denominations ($10 and $20) is a solid idea.

7. Documents

Some very important documents you’ll need to pack are: your passport, Certificate of Eligibility (DS-2019 form), medical insurance certificate, and your travel to camp instructions.

Make sure you also have your boarding pass and flight details, copies of your passport and ID. Ensuring that your family have a copy too. You may require your DBS form and your visa and SEVIS forms.

Having a copy of your camp contract and your camp’s contact details certainly won’t go amiss either.

8. Unique items

Extension lead

This will make you a favourite amongst other campers! An extension lead with multiple plug sockets will come in super handy if you need to charge more than one thing at once – again, just remember the adapter plug.

Portable speaker

Fancying a dance-off, wanting to bring the vibes or perform a concert in the shower? Well, portable speakers are the perfect way to have music on the go.

Earplugs and an eye mask

Sleep is ever so precious, and can be somewhat sparse in camp. So, making sure your sleep quality is as good as possible is essential. We recommend getting yourself some earplugs and an eye mask.

Portable charger

Having a portable charger means you can head out on your days off from camp without battery fear. Some camps are tech free, so when you can get on your phone, you'll no doubt be zapping the juice to take photos, get in touch with home, and catch up on social.

9. Your camp’s packing list

As we mentioned above, it's worth asking your camp if you should bring anything specific. Your camp may have certain activities planned like colour wars or animal days, so having clothes of a certain colour (or print) may come in useful!

If you receive a packing list from your camp with items like egg crates or bed stands – this will be a standard list for campers or American staff. So don’t worry, you won’t actually need to pack these things. If you’re unsure, just ask your Camp Director. They’ll be happy to help.

10. What you DON'T need to bring

Some electronics

Laptops, game consoles and tablets are certainly not needed at camp. Wi-FI may be limited, your free time will mainly be spent outside and you don’t want to worry about breaking expensive devices either.

Precious items

Any items that are irreplaceable or expensive to replace at the very least, really shouldn't be brought to camp.

Hair dryers or straighteners

As the US uses a lower voltage than many other countries, hair styling tools won’t work very efficiently. Plus, you may be able to borrow some there.

**So there you have it. Our extensive summer camp packing list. For more packing advice, check out our packing videos on social.