No one knows camp life better than the staff who live it day in and day out. From bunk hacks and packing shortcuts to ways campers can dive into activities and make friends, these are the insider secrets straight from the people who guide the summer magic. Their tips help campers settle in faster, bond with their cabin, and get the very most out of camp.
Get Into The Themes
When it comes to themes and activities, extra is best! Don't be afraid to be the kiddo with the themed attire—it's so much more fun to go all in.
Towels
Pack shower and bath towels that are somewhat thin and will dry quickly. In humid environments, thick plush towels never air-dry between uses.
Sticker IDs
Collect or buy stickers from places you've traveled and decorate your trunk. They also help identify water bottles—label everything too!
String Lights
Pack fun string lights, battery clip-on fans, or reading lights for bunks. Photos from home can ease homesickness—bring tacks/tape and a few Command hooks.
Try a New Activity
Eyeing a class you've never tried? Jump in! Counselors and fellow campers will cheer you on in the new adventure.
Get Everybody In On The Fun
Bringing themed items (like glow sticks for a glow party) for your whole cabin is a great way to bond fast.
Choosing a Backpack
Skip drawstring bags—they get overstuffed, break easily, and dig into shoulders. A small real backpack holds up better.
Lost Items at Camp
Our most lost item is beach towels—kids aren't used to carrying them and forget which design they brought. Label them clearly!
ESC Camp Chairs
The ESC Camp Chair is a must for overnights, campfires, and shows.
Pack for Theme Days
Does your camp do theme days? Pack T-shirts in every color so you can coordinate for skits, dances, and contests—plus your camp logo tees & sweats!
Crocs & Rain Boots
Woodland girls love Crocs (sport mode!), stretchy pants, and rain boots—easy, comfy, and camp-proof.
No Need To Over-Pack
Don't overpack clothes—cabins swallow stuff. You'll also live in a swimsuit a lot of the time.
Pre-Address Envelopes
Pre-address your envelopes so sending letters is quick and error-free. It's the easiest way to boost mail home.
Color Themed Clothing
If camp has color teams, bring solid options for red, blue, black, yellow, and green so you're always ready.
Optimize Storage Space
Under-bed storage is clutch. Make sure your luggage fits underneath—even open like two halves if needed.
Personalize, Personalize, Personalize
Name labels and distinctive stickers make it obvious what's yours—especially camp apparel.
New Activities
Everything you love now was new once. Focus on easy first wins—dress for it, be on time, watch what others enjoy—and have fun.
Bug Spray and Sunscreen
Pack plenty of sunscreen and bug spray—plus extras. Burns and bites are fun-killers.
Making Friends
Introvert? Aim for a few close friends. Say hello, ask simple questions (favorite food/color/season), and try again if it doesn't click—failures lead to success.
Pack Extra Clothing
Don't pack anything you'd be devastated to lose or ruin. Camp is messy and laundry is mixed—pre-wash reds before you send them.
Stay Connected
Bring a pen and notebook to swap contact info before you leave—it's great to keep in touch with camp friends.
The best camp summers begin with strong preparation. From early packing wins to clever shortcuts, these family-tested tips take the pressure off departure day and let the excitement shine. Use them to set your camper up for success before they even step through the cabin door.
