Packing for summer camp can feel overwhelming, whether it’s your first time or your tenth. But with the right approach, you can stay organized, make unpacking a breeze, and ensure that your belongings don’t get lost in the sea of campers’ gear. Here are some expert tips to help you pack like a pro!
1. Start with a Checklist
Before you even pull out your suitcase or duffel bag, create or download a summer camp packing checklist. Most camps provide a recommended list, but be sure to personalize it based on your camper’s needs. A checklist helps you stay on track and ensures you don’t forget the essentials. We’ve included the Foley Packing list below…
Pro Tip: Cross off items as you pack them, and take a photo of your completed packing list in case anything needs to be repacked later.
2. Choose the Right Bag
The best type of bag for camp is usually a large, soft-sided duffel bag or a rolling suitcase. They’re easy to pack, fit well in cabins, and can hold a lot of gear. Some camps also recommend trunks, which are durable and keep items protected.
Pro Tip: If you’re using a duffel, consider packing cubes or gallon-size resealable bags to keep items grouped together and easy to find.
3. Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling clothes instead of folding them saves space and reduces wrinkles. It also makes it easier to see everything at a glance when your camper is digging through their bag.
Pro Tip: Sort rolled clothing by type (shirts, shorts, pajamas) and place them in separate packing cubes or labeled bags.
4. Label Everything (Seriously, Everything!)
Camp laundry is a wild adventure, and lost-and-found piles grow daily. Avoid the heartbreak of missing socks, favorite T-shirts, and towels by labeling everything.
Best Labeling Methods:
- Use iron-on or stick-on name labels for clothing.
- Write initials with a permanent marker on tags.
- Label shoes with waterproof stickers or marker inside the tongue.
- Use colorful duct tape or washi tape for quick identification on water bottles and gear.
Pro Tip: Label even non-clothing items like flashlights, bug spray, and sunscreen to ensure they make it home.
5. Use Ziplock Bags for Small Items
Group small items like socks, underwear, toiletries, and accessories in resealable plastic bags. This prevents them from getting lost and makes it easy for campers to grab what they need without rummaging through everything.
Pro Tip: Pack a separate bag for dirty laundry, so it doesn’t mix with clean clothes.
6. Pack a “First Day” Outfit on Top
To make arrival day easier, pack the first day’s outfit right on top or in a separate side pocket. This way, your camper won’t have to dig through everything to find something to wear.
Pro Tip: If the camp has a theme day or special event early on, plan and pack accordingly!
7. Bring a Packing List Inside the Bag
Tuck a copy of the packing checklist inside the bag. This helps your camper remember what they brought and makes repacking for home much easier.
Pro Tip: Tape the checklist inside the lid of a trunk or the top of a duffel for quick reference.
8. Teach Your Camper How to Repack
Before camp, do a practice round of packing and unpacking with your camper. Show them where everything is and how to keep their belongings organized in their cabin space.
Pro Tip: If your camper is young, take a picture of the packed bag layout to help them remember where things go.
Packing for camp doesn’t have to be stressful! With a little organization, smart labeling, and strategic packing, you can set your camper up for success. Plus, when everything is neatly packed and labeled, they’ll have more time to enjoy the summer fun instead of searching for lost socks.
The Camp Foley Packing List
For a two-week stay, be sure to pack:
- 7 pairs of long pants (jeans, sweatpants, leggings)
- 7 pairs of shorts
- 3 long-sleeve shirts & 10 short-sleeve shirts/tank tops
- Socks (enough for two weeks, including a few taller pairs)
- Undergarments (for two weeks)
- 3 modest swimsuits (one-piece or tankinis for girls, swim trunks for boys)
- Water shoes with a heel strap (Teva, Chaco, Crocs, etc.)
- Athletic shoes for activities
- 3 sweatshirts or fleece pullovers
- A light jacket or windbreaker & a rain jacket/poncho
- A bandana (required for biking, climbing, fencing, & paintball)
- A hat for sun protection
Bonus: Pack fun, wacky outfits for skits, lip sync battles, and themed games!
Toiletries & Personal Items
Keep it simple and pack the basics:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Shampoo, conditioner, soap
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+), bug spray, & lip balm with SPF
- Any medications (turned in to the camp nurse upon arrival)
- A shower caddy (best with holes for drainage)
Note: No aerosol cans allowed!
Required Gear & Equipment
- Sleeping bag & twin-size bedding set (fitted sheet, flat sheet, pillowcase)
- USCG-approved life jacket (Vest Type III)
- Water bottle (must close tightly)
- Flashlight
- Stationery, stamps, and envelopes (campers must write home)
- Camp chair (like a Crazy Creek)
Optional Items
- A camera (no phones allowed)
- MP3 player (but no iPhones/iPads)
- Fun costume pieces for Alpha Games team colors
- Fishing gear, tennis racket, or musical instruments
What Not to Bring
- Electronics like phones, smartwatches, tablets, & laptops
- Weapons, fireworks, controlled substances
- Food, candy, gum, or soda (will be discarded or donated)
- Makeup, hair tools, or plug-in electronics
- Animals of any kind
Dress Code Reminder
At Camp Foley, we keep things comfortable and appropriate:
- Midriffs and cleavage should be covered, even at the waterfront
- Shorts and skirts must fully cover your backside
- No clothing with inappropriate language or logos
- Athletic shoes are required for certain activities
- No altering your appearance at camp (no hair dyeing, piercing, etc.)
Luggage & Shipping Option
Campers should bring two duffel bags max (wheeled bags recommended). If you’re flying or traveling after camp, check out our optional luggage shipping service for hassle-free travel.
Packing for Camp Foley is all about being prepared while keeping it simple. Label everything, pack only what you need, and get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure. Check out Ship Camps if you’re looking to send your camper’s bags ahead of time.