Buy/designate & label a set of sheets & towels that are just for camp. Wash those & store them in the trunk until the next summer when they are needed again. That way you aren't scrambling around trying to find a set of sheets & a couple of towels that are labeled for your kiddo to take with them. Same goes for the shower caddy!

MaryMarshall M. 
Parent of a Camper
Camp Ozark 
2 Years

Packing can be hard and not being able to fit everything is stressful. My two words for you Packing Cubes. They are a necessity ( on the store!) I have tried everything stacking rolling and its never enough but packing cubes they will change your life! You can fit so much in them. If those aren’t your style try folding your clothes in different ways so they all fit!

Kate W.
Camper
YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha
4 Years

I love going to camp but sometimes I feel like I am taking my whole bedroom with me. I'd limit yourself on how much you bring. If you have a friend or sibling that has gone to camp before ask them about their experience and see how much cabin or down time you get then plan according.

Kate W.
Camper
YMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha
4 Years

I am the grandparent of three campers for the summer of 2023, including a new camper. All three are completely packed and their duffels are ready to send to camp. How? We washed and folded all the linens etc. the day they came home. I shopped and filled in all the color war stuff and things they would need for the following summer. Without stress or deadline, I packed all three kids in one day, feeling so relaxed that there was no pressure. THE SOONER YOU GET IT DONE, THE BETTER YOU FEEL! All that is left are the clothes ... how great is that!?!

You don't need as much as you think you do. The campers often wear shirts/ shorts etc more than once. Don't overpack!

Kathy F.
Parent of a Camper
Camp Takodah
3 Years