Going to summer camp is only fun when you have everything you need with you when you arrive. Not all camping organizations come with fully-equipped facilities for all participants to use. It is always best to be ready with all the things that may come in helpful when attending your very first summer camp. In order to help you through the process of packing for summer camp, here is a step-by-step guide that will get you ready in no time.

Gather Information
Once you have identified the right camp for your child, it’s time to start making some lists. While getting ready for camp isn’t quite as complicated as planning a wedding, there are some things they share in common. They both have work with a timeline, other people’s schedules and requirements, buying the right clothing and gear, and relaxing and enjoying the event itself.

Before you do anything go to the camp website and start jotting down a list of what you need to do get your child ready for camp and when you need to do it. The timeline for registering, initial and final payments, medical forms, and permission slips is already set. You just need to follow it.

If the camp doesn’t have a website, you can make some calls, send an email (it’s hard to imagine a camp that doesn’t even have email), or write them (via snail mail). Most camps have some sort of brochure or printout. Local city, church, scout, and school camps are easy to contact.

You can always talk to the Camp Leader who supervises both the camp staff and the campers. Premier camping programs like the YMCA has a specific adult camp leader assigned for each cabin or activity. They can provide you with a list of items to pack for camp. If you child needs new shoes, sneaker, swimsuit, etc, be sure to buy them far enough in advance for the child to break them in.

Create a Personal Packing List
You can see a somewhat typical packing list at the Dubois Center website. While not every camp will require the same things, most will require some of the items. If you aren’t sure, ask your camp staff in advance. Dubois Center is a church run camp and requires or encourages certain behaviors. Its list of what not to bring is also interesting: nothing illegal or dangerous, nothing that harms the environment or attracts vermin, or nothing that violates its religious principles. Nothing unexpected here but many campers may resist giving up their radios, iPods, Nintendo games, or cell phones.

If you take the time now to get organized, you will find life a lot easier as the camping season approaches.

Related posts:

• Preparing Your Child for Overnight Summer Camp