It’s getting close to time off from school which means that many teens and tweens are planning time at camp and adventure, so now is the perfect time to teach them how to pack. Sure, it’s easier sometimes for us to just jump in and do it for them, but this is a life skill that everyone should learn. What better time to teach than when it’s a fun event they are excited about? Here is a simple packing list for teen camp and a few tips to help make the process easier!

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Packing List for Teen Camp

There are some basic things that all teens need to take when they get ready for an overnight or extended stay at school camp or other conference settings. Help them learn the basics of packing smart by letting them do the work themselves.

Clothes:

• Casual clothes (1 set per day)
• Underclothes (1 set per day + extras)
• Dressy outfit (if needed for event)
• Shoes for each outfit
• Socks (if wearing tennis shoes)
• Swimsuit (if needed)
• Pajamas

Bedding:

• Sheets/blanket
• Pillow
• Sleeping bag (if needed)

We have found that it is easiest for the teens to each have their own sleeping bag so they don’t have to pack a full load of bedding and sheets. My daughter has the Kelty Tru Comfort 20 which includes a 2 layer blanket system in the sleeping bag. This allows her to use both the inside zip-up blanket and the top layer blanket or just pick and choose one of them if she gets too hot.

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General:

• Money for incidentals
• Paperwork (if needed)
• Journal
• Pen/Paper

Shower Gear:

• Flip-flops for shower
• Towel/Wash Cloth
• Toiletries
• Body wash
• Shampoo
• Toothpaste/Toothbrush/Mouthwash

• Girls: Pads/tampons
• Boys: Shaving gear if needed
• Deodorant

Electronics:

• Charging Cords
• Portable Charger
• Phone
• Earbuds

Other Items:

• Help your teen think through what other items they need to pack for their camp experience.
  Are they taking a guitar or their keyboard? If so, make sure they have extra batteries or guitar pick so they will be ready to make music all week long.
• Will they be going on hikes or spending time out in the sun? Think about bug spray or sunscreen.
• Are there any medical issues that might come up? Do you need to pack an extra supply of medicine, inhalers or other health supplies?

How do you teach your teens to pack and prepare for camps? I’d love to hear!