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The Essential Packing Items Every Camper Needs

You may have heard while doing your summer camp research that it’s important to pack light, and it’s true! So, here’s some of the items that should be on the top of your list.

The first thing we recommend is using a duffle bag over a suitcase. Not only will the flexibility allow for extra packing space, but it’ll be easier for your camper to fold up and store once they’re unpacked and settled in at camp. Investing in packing cubes can also be a life saver for organization. Being able to separate items into specific packs will help to consolidate and keep track of them as you go.

Now that you’ve got your bags, it’s time to fill them!

Make sure your kid has plenty of tank tops, t-shirts, shorts, and pants–ones that they’re not afraid to get messy! You know your child best, and if they’re the type to get wild during playtime, you probably don’t want to send them to camp with any designer clothing or super special family heirloom. Choose clothing that they’re most comfortable in!

For shoes, remember your camper will be outside a lot! Close toed, comfortable, and durable shoes are the way to go. Pack a couple pairs of sporty shoes, and one extra sturdy pair for hiking! Also make sure to pack some water friendly shoes like flip flops or crocs that can be used for the beach and for showers.

Tie-dye shirt hanging from a clothesline

Speaking of water, summertime means lots of swimming! Make sure to pack some active-friendly swimwear. If your camper is extra sensitive to the sun, consider a long-sleeve suit for full coverage.

After you’ve set aside all your items to be packed, we strongly suggest you label… everything! Even if your kid is the best at keeping track of their things, you can never be too careful. Whether it’s a water bottle, t-shirt, or hairbrush, taking an extra second to put their name on it could be worth it in the long run!

Although we’ve covered the basics, make sure you check out our Walden Packing List so that you know your child has everything they need! For a more in-depth guide and some awesome packing hacks, go read Assistant Director Annie Mauch’s Guide to Packing for Walden! We want you and your camper to be as prepared as possible so that you can make the most out of your Camp Walden Experience!

diversity, equity, inclusion

Walden understands that a relevant camp community requires the harmonies of many voices—not only those that inspire, but also those that instruct and challenge. We strive to be a camp where diversity is celebrated and supported, and where each camper and staff member is provided the resources and opportunities to succeed. Our mission of teaching empathy and respect is incomplete if it only serves those who think and look like we do. We believe that our camp can be anyone’s camp, and that our greatest strength lies therein.

Walden is an Equal Opportunity Employer that hires qualified staff regardless of their race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law.