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Packing for day camp is usually pretty simple and similar to packing for school. Your child will probably need lunch and a water bottle most days. Ask the counselor when a swim suit and towels are needed. Remember to apply sunscreen to your child if she'll be outdoors for even part of the day.
Some camps, particularly low-cost community camps, may ask you to bring specific items on particular days, such as shoe boxes for a craft project or hotdog buns for a cookout. These needs are usually communicated on a board near the check-out area or in a handout sent home with your child.
Put all your child's supplies in a colorful and distinctive bag or backpack to help keep her organized and make it easy to find her things at pick-up time. Label camp items to increase the chance of finding misplaced items.
Most overnight camps will provide a detailed packing list upon registration that will probably include many of the following items:
- shirt and shorts or pants for each day
- socks and underwear for each day
- bathing suit
- one set of warm clothing for cool nights
- waterproof, closed-toe sandals
- extra pair of tennis shoes (in case one gets soaked)
- raincoat or poncho
- towels
- sheets (twin or twin XL)
- water bottle
- sun hat
- sunglasses
- sunscreen - waterproof, SPF 15 or higher
- insect repellant
- soap and shampoo
- toothbrush and toothpaste
- medication along with phone number of physician in case refill is needed
- disposable camera
- deck of cards
- book
- flashlight
- laundry bag or plastic bag (for wet or dirty clothes)
- journal and pen
- pre-addressed postcards with postage for your child to write home
In addition, consider what equipment your child may want or need to participate in special activities. This may include sports gear, water shoes, or musical instruments.
Remember to label everything with your child's first and last name. Do not send expensive cameras, music players, computers, and other items that may get broken or disappear. Some of these items are likely to be on the camp's "not allowed" list.