Summer is here, and with schools closing, it’s time for summer camps to open! Getting your kids ready for camp isn’t easy. Ensuring they have the right shoes, clothing, and gear can be overwhelming. But don’t fret, we’re here to help! While most camps provide packing lists, at Sun & Ski Sports, we take it a step further. Our packing list is a great reference for camp preparation, but we also understand the value of personal experience. If you’re seeking expert advice from a trustworthy source, you’ve come to the right place.
Our Outdoor Experts are eager to assist you in finding the perfect items for your camper. Shopping has never been easier thanks to our simple Buy Online, Pick Up In Store experience and 30+ locations nationwide. We’re here to make sure your kids, from children to teens, are fully prepared for their summer camp adventures. So, without further delay, let’s get started!
Summer Camp Clothing Checklist
Most packing lists recommend a specific number of shirts and shorts for camp, which is useful, but our top advice is to always pack extra. Unexpected events like rainstorms, lunchtime spills, or activities that cover clothes in dirt happen, and having spare items ensures your camper will have clean, dry clothes to wear. When shopping for shirts, check out the sale rack at Sun & Ski Sports for high-quality, affordable tees. Opt for polyester shorts because they dry quickly, making them ideal for camp activities.
Camp Packing List for Girls
The North Face Girls’ Flex Woven Shorts
Teva Kids’ Hurricane XLT JR Sandals
Rip Curl Girls’ Layday Crop T-Shirt
HOKA Kids’ Mach 6 Running Shoes
O’Neill Girls’ Angie T-Shirt
Under Armour Girls’ UA Tech Play Up Logo Active Shorts
ROXY Girls’ Hula Loop One Piece Swimsuit
Beach Lingo Girls’ Palm Beach Two Piece Swimsuit
MiniShades Kids 8-12 Classic Polarized Sun Glasses
Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel Bag
CamelBak Eddy+ 25 oz Water Bottle
Free Fly Kids’ Brand Flag Trucker Hat
Camp Packing List for Boys
Patagonia Boys’ Capilene Silkweight T-Shirt
On Kids’ Cloudsurfer Running Shoes
Free Fly Kids’ Reverb Shorts
Chaco Kids Z/1 Ecotread Sandals
Quiksilver Boys’ Everyday Mix Volley Swim Trunks
Quiksilver Boys’ Omni Yin Short Sleeve Surf T-Shirt
Chubbies Boys’ Rex Marks The Spots Lined Swim Trunks
Billabong Boys’ All Day Wave Long Sleeve Surfshirt Rashguard
Patagonia Boys’ Trucker Hat
Optic Nerve Kids’ Cowlick Sunglasses
The North Face Base Camp Duffel – S
Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth Sustain Water Bottle
Best Shoes for Summer Camp
Comfortable and durable shoes are a summer camp necessity. I recommend packing your little one multiple pairs of shoes as well as various types. Since the typical overnight summer camp has many activities for the kids to enjoy, this can lead to wear and tear on your kiddo’s shoes. I recommend bringing shoes that are made with a durable material and promote strength in the sole, as low-quality shoes will quickly wear out and may even develop holes on the bottom. Due to their outdoorsy style, top-of-the-line cushioning, and unparalleled durability—the most popular shoe brands at camp are Hoka, On, New Balance, Chaco, Keen, and Teva.
I recommend bringing (or packing your kids) at least one pair of closed-toed shoes, a pair of water shoes for rainy days/swimming, and a pair of casual slip-ons for hanging out at the cabin or enjoying meals with friends. With all these options, your kiddo will be sure to be equipped for their camp adventure.
Swim Gear for Summer Camp
Summer camp is all about fun, especially when it involves water activities like swimming or splashing around at water parks. Given that campers often spend time in pools, lakes, or the ocean, pack a couple of swimsuits and plenty of sunscreen to avoid sunburns that could ruin the fun. Packing the right gear is key to ensuring your camper has a great time. Sun & Ski Sports has everything your kid will need for a day in the sun!
Packing a rash guard is a great idea, especially for younger kids or those who are reluctant to wear sun screen (like most kids haha). Just let the camp counselors know, and they’ll make sure your child wears it when needed. Always check your camp’s swimwear dress code. Some camps have specific rules about bikinis, so it’s best to confirm ahead of time.
Best Water Bottles for Camp
One of the most essential items to pack for camp is a quality water bottle! Since the summer days are long and hot, it is imperative for kids to stay hydrated. I recommend purchasing an insulated water bottle like the ones products by Yeti, CamelBak, and Hydro Flask. These types of water bottles keep water cold for a longer period, while also being more durable! Plus, they’re also available in different colors. I recommend a water bottle in a color that not a lot of other kids have, that way, it’s less likely for another camper to take it.
Hammocks for Summer Camp
Another essential item you may or may not see on a typical summer camp packing list is a hammock! Hammocks from Eagle Nest Outfitters (ENO) are easy to pack and extremely popular across camp. Some camps do day trips or even offer rest time—and during this time, the ENO becomes a go-to. Since it allows for a quick way to set up a place to rest for a moment, or even sleep for the night on a trip, the ENO is multifunctional. In fact, the summer camp I worked at had patios with hooks—so campers could hang up their ENOS during our rest period.
Complete Camp Packing Checklist
And there you have it—the essential items every camper needs for their summer adventure! Before your kiddo heads out, make sure to visit your local Sun & Ski Sports. With 30+ locations across the United States, you’ll find all the trendy gear I’ve recommended and more. Our Outdoor Experts are eager to assist you and your kids with finding the right gear. We can’t wait to see the amazing adventures your campers will have at summer camp this year!
Sun & Ski Sports Locations
About the Author, Allie Cheney
Hello there :) Allie Cheney here! I'm a Texan turned mountain enthusiast with a twist. After a year of croissants and conjugations in France where I completed an MBA, I traded baguettes for mountain air and moved to Colorado. As a Copywriter and Content Creator for Sun & Ski Sports I'm thrilled to share my 6 years of outdoor industry knowledge with you! Living in a converted van, I'll be skiing along the Rocky Mountains and West Coast this winter. My aim is to deliver content that is not only accurate and genuine but also provides valuable knowledge and insights into your favorite hobbies, the latest trending styles, and cutting-edge products. Let’s explore together! For questions feel free to email me at ACheney@sunandski.com or contact an Outdoor Expert at any Sun & Ski Sports store location near you!