Every camp trip involves packing, and before deciding what to pack, you'll have to decide what type of camp luggage you're going use to pack your camp gear into. This leads to the question: which is better for camp, a trunk or a duffle?
The truth is that the right container for your camper could be a footlocker trunk, a suitcase, a duffel bag, or it could even be a large backpack. With the help of camp experts Dr. Chris Thurber and Dr. Jon Malinowski, we've compiled a list of tips for choosing the best luggage for camp.
How to Pick the Best Luggage for Summer Camp
The best place to start when trying to decide what type of container you will use for your summer camp trip is checking with the camp itself. Most summer camps will list suggested luggage solutions in their information packets, or even a preferred type of container.
If you don't see any information regarding summer camp luggage, you should call the camp to ask. Camp directors will know how much space is available for campers' personal belongings and guide you accordingly.
Benefits of a Footlocker Trunk
Footlocker trunks are a long-time favorite because they are tough, compact and multi-functional.
Here are five additional benefits of having a footlocker trunk while at camp:
- Desk: A great hard surface to write letters home
- Game Table: For cards or other board games
- Chair: Additional seating for visitors from other cabins
- Step Ladder: Easily reach your top bunk
- Organization: Keeps clothes and gear neater than a suitcase or duffle bag
Footlocker Trunks are the long-lasting reliable choice for thousands of summer campers every year. In fact, at Everything Summer Camp our camp footlocker trunks last long enough to be passed down from one sibling to another, and are backed by a lifetime free repair warranty!
Soft Case or Duffle Bag for Summer Camp?
While hard trunks have the most to offer in terms of additional benefits, there are situations where packing for camp with a duffel bag or pop-up soft trunk is advantageous. Some summer camps specify luggage must be soft-sided for potential travel or luggage weight reasons. First and foremost, if your camp advises against hard trunks, do not bring one.
Don't hesitate to call the camp and talk to a director for luggage guideline clarifications, but if the information packet is specifically advising against hard trunks you should trust that they have a good reason.
Similarly, if your trip to summer camp involves a plane flight, it will be much easier to bring a pop-up trunk or duffel bag rather than a traditional trunk. A wheeled duffel or rolling duffel can make airport travel significantly easier, especially for younger campers who need to carry their own gear. If the camp cabins will have closets and drawers for campers then a duffle bag can be compacted for storage.
Additionally, if your camper will be doing long hikes, they will need to bring a day pack in the form of a duffel bag or backpack in addition to a footlocker trunk or a soft trunk.
How to Pick the Best Backpack for Summer Camp
Once you've decided between a footlocker trunk, pop-up trunk, or duffle, the last piece of luggage you'll want to consider is a backpack.
There isn't a summer camp we can think of that we wouldn't recommend packing a backpack for. The problem is that there are so many backpacks out there, that it's hard to know how to choose.
Here are two rules for finding the perfect backpack for summer camp:
- Go Big: A large backpack is your best option for long hikes. Remember: You can always leave space in a large backpack, but you can't increase the capacity of a small backpack.
- Add Weight: If you're going to a store to purchase your backpack make sure you add weight to the backpack while trying it on. Every backpack feels comfortable when it's empty, but you need it to be comfortable when it's fully weighed down with gear. Test it with clothing, bedding, or other items to simulate a real camp load.
The Smart Choice for Summer Camp Luggage
Ultimately, the best luggage for summer camp will come down to the camp's recommendations, your method of transportation, and what the camp lodgings provide for storage.
Think about what activities will occupy the majority of your camper's time and decide based on which provides the most benefits. Consider features like durable straps, easy-to-carry handles, and enough space for all their gear. If you're in search of more summer camp advice we have a full print guide of great summer camp advice for parents and kids alike.
As always, thanks for reading, and happy camping!
- John, Everything Summer Camp
Frequently Asked Questions About Camp Luggage
What kind of bag is best for camp? +
The best bag for camp depends on your camp's requirements and your travel method. Footlocker trunks are ideal for most overnight camps because they're durable and multi-functional. If you're flying or your camp requires soft-sided luggage, a large duffel bag or pop-up soft trunk works well. Always check with your camp first for their specific recommendations.
Should I bring a suitcase for camping? +
Traditional suitcases are generally not recommended for summer camp. They don't store as efficiently in cabin spaces as trunks or duffel bags, and they lack the durability needed for camp environments. Footlocker trunks, soft trunks, or large duffel bags are much better options that can withstand the rigors of camp life.
What's the best way to pack luggage for camp? +
Start by laying out everything on your camp packing list before you begin. Roll clothing instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles. Pack heavier items like shoes at the bottom of duffel bags or against the back of backpacks. Use packing cubes or separate bags to organize different categories of items. Label everything with your camper's name, and keep frequently needed items easily accessible.
What is the most forgotten item when camping? +
The most commonly forgotten camp items include toiletries like toothbrushes and deodorant, flashlights or headlamps, extra batteries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle. Many families also forget to label their belongings, which makes it difficult to recover lost items at camp. Creating a detailed packing list and checking it twice helps prevent these oversights.
