Things You Should Actually Pack For A Summer Camp J1

Before I begin this list, it should be noted that every camp is different and some items may be more essential in certain areas - such as a raincoat for places high in rainfall - but I feel this list covers all the basics. Also, if this is your first time working at a camp, I did a blog post on my thoughts of it, which you can read here. 

What You Should Actually Pack For A Summer Camp

• Cheap graphic tees:

   
Kids love bright, slogan t-shirts and you can dump (preferably donate) them after camp which frees space in your suitcase! Also, if you want to travel light, you can pick these up at Five and Below in the US.

• Cotton shorts:

You're going to be active for long periods of time, so jeans or tight pants are a big no no! Just make sure your shorts pass the knuckle test - where the length of your shorts is equal to you laying your arms down by your sides. 

• Hiking boots:

Do not wear any shoes you hope to have after camp. Shoes get destroyed from camp - just ask the 4 pair I had to throw away - and it's not worth the heartbreak. Investing in a good pair of hiking boots or outdoor boots will be one of your best decisions.

S/O to my girl GB for sorting me out with these bad boys

• Cheap trainers:

For the same reason as above, so don't be bringing your box fresh Nikes. Penneys/ Primark do solid trainers for a reasonable price. 

• A raincoat:

Irish logic had me thinking, "A raincoat?! Sure it doesn't rain in the States! That's why they've sprinklers". I was wrong. A windbreaker is the ideal jacket because it provides protection from the rain without being too heavy and making you sweat buckets.

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• LOTS of socks and underwear:

You can't bring enough.

• Two/Three 'nice' outfits:

For nights off , you may end up going off camp for dinner. Some camps also hold dances and you don't want to be stuck in graphic tees and shorts for either. 

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• A fanny pack:

These things are so useful for when you're travelling or flying abroad. Having easy access to your passport and money saves a lot of stress and adds a sense of security.

• A backpack:

Another camp essential. You'd be surprised with how many things you carry around as a counselor. You can pick these up for cheap in places like Walmart but if you want to save your money, bring one to the airport as your carry on. 

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• An alarm clock:

This may only apply to resident/overnight camp but phones are not permitted outside off-hours. Having one of these ensures you don't have to rely on someone to wake you up!

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• A watch:

Seems like common sense but, apart from fashion reasons, watches are no longer a wardrobe staple. Being tardy at camp is a BIG no as it can disrupt the whole camp's day plan and, in the words of my camp boss "if you're early, you're on time. If you're on time, you're late. And if you're late? That's unacceptable."

• At least 3 towels:

You will leave your towels out on the porch to dry overnight some night and there will be a freak rainstorm that night. Always have a back up towel. 

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• BUG SPRAY:

Bug bites are a serious pain, especially if you get an allergic reaction that cause them to swell - ouch! - and then there are more serious reasons like Lyme disease, which is caught through ticks and can carry serious consequences to your health and wellbeing. So pick up a couple bottles and spray throughout the day.

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• Eye Mask & Ear Plugs:

You'll be sharing a cabin with other counselors who may not go to bed as early as you. And people snore.

• Bobby Pins/ Bobbins / Hair Ties / Hairbands:

Double french braids are going to basically be your hairstyle for your duration at camp. But pack all the essential hair accessories because they are hella expensive to buy in the US.

• Water Shoes:

If your camp has a lake, bring water shoes. Your feet will thank you.

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And if you want every counselor to love you, bring a:

• Hair straightner

• Vanity Mirror

• Portable Speaker

**Bonus - Tips for camp:

* Don't worry about bringing nice clothes with you for travelling after camp! Clothes are a lot cheaper in the US, with sales happening all summer long for most big brands like Nike, Calvin Klein and Ambercrombie. Consider saving the money you'd spend in Penneys for trips to the mall and outlets. 

* Toiletries are expensive. Although I wouldn't advise bringing your shampoos and shower gels in your suitcase - they'll only weigh it down - definitely put extra money aside for toiletries.

* If you play an instrument, bring it with you (if possible). Beware though: if you play guitar, expect to hear 1,000,000 requests for Wonderwall.

* Bring something for everyone to sign; such as a plain white tee or your home flag. I used my CCUSA t-shirt!

* Think about investing in a suitcase that has spinner wheels - the one that go in any direction. They are lifesavers when you land in the US and you begin the process of moving from the airport to your camp. 

*A pop-up laundry bag will save you if you have to move cabins often!

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Until next time...

Aimee♥