Real tips, straight from camp. This board is packed with quick, no-fluff advice from campers who’ve lived it—what to pack, bunk-setup hacks, homesickness helpers, and little fixes that make a big difference. Hover or focus a note to zoom it.
Don't Wait To Start Packing
Start packing early. If you wait until the last minute you’ll forget something—begin as soon as you have the list and chip away little by little.
Pack Early
Same deal—pack over a few days instead of the night before so nothing gets missed.
Bring Memories
Pack photos and tape to decorate your bunk. Seeing home on the wall helps with homesickness.
Don't Forget Crocs
Crocs work for pool time, showers, and walking around—and they’re easy to kick off. Our cabin signed each other’s Crocs as a keepsake.
Write Down Your Experiences
Bring a small notebook to log each day. It’s fun to read later and gets you excited for next year.
Bring an Instrument
If you play, pack something portable (guitar, uke). Great for talent shows—no regrets if you bring your own.
If You Might Need It, Pack It
Better to have a spare than come up short.
Mattress Pad
An egg-crate topper turns any bunk into a comfy bed—instant hangout spot.
Avoid Battery Acid
When you get home, empty your trunk, remove all batteries, clean/dry gear, then repack for next year so nothing corrodes or smells.
Trunk + Duffle
A sturdy trunk is key. If allowed, add a duffle and backpack for overflow items.
Shower Caddy & Wrap Towel
A caddy keeps shampoo/soap together. A wrap towel frees your hands on the walk back from the showers.
Bedding Setup
Thin camp mattresses? Add an egg-crate and a topper if allowed. Pack two sheet sets and a warm blanket or quilt.
Setting Up Your Bunk
Pack your trunk in reverse so the first-night essentials sit on top. Make the bed first, then add lights/fans. Keep laundry and a small trash spot handy.
Pack in Reverse
Stack outfits for the week at the bottom, PJs near the top, and shower items/towels in the other half. Use cubes for underwear/smalls; lights/games go in a duffle.
Younger Kids: Outfit Bags
Pack one outfit per gallon Ziplock (top, bottoms, underwear, socks). Add extras. Easy for staff to help littles grab-and-go.
Claim Your Items
Put your name on everything. Everything.
Mad Libs for Rainy Days
A big Mad Libs book is perfect when everyone’s stuck inside.
Extra Bed Sheets
A second set midweek helps with dirt and sand.
Glide & Go Trays
Great catch-all storage for the small extras.
Sticker Spot
Your trunk makes a perfect sticker canvas.
Always Ask
If you need something, speak up.
Essential Extras
Pack spare water bottles, glow sticks (soft nightlight, no bugs), labels, a few snacks if allowed, and dryer sheets to keep luggage fresh.
Bring Friends (or a Sibling)
Camp is even better with someone you know—share what to expect and get them excited to join.
Limit What You Bring
You don’t need your whole room. Ask an experienced camper how much downtime there really is and pack accordingly.
Birthdays at Camp
If your birthday lands during camp, plan something fun with friends—camp birthdays can be the best.
Pre-Address Letters
Pre-address envelopes before you go. You’ll actually send mail.
Shower When You Can
Hot water and time slots are precious—take them when they’re open.
Ask Questions
If you’re unsure what to do, ask. Staff will help.
Have Fun, Don’t Dwell
You’ll make friends. Bring a family photo if you miss home, and keep trying new things.
Embrace the Outdoors
There will be bugs and mess. Pack bug spray, move efficiently in the shower line, and be grateful if your cabin has showers inside.
Keep Gear Accessible
Organize so you can grab things fast and stay with your group—especially your first year.
Packing Cubes = Space
Packing cubes fit more and keep it neat. If not your style, experiment with folding methods to maximize space.
No Food/Moisture in the Trunk
Avoid packing anything that can spill or mold.
Listen, Listen, Listen
Pay attention to activity instructions—more fun, less confusion.
Branch Out
Try new activities—you might find a favorite you didn’t expect.
Try New Things
Even if you’re nervous, counselors will help.
Entertainment for Travel
Long bus ride? Bring something to do—sometimes there’s a movie, but have a backup. P.S. thin twin mattresses—bottom bunk is gold.
Lists Prevent Over-Packing
Make a list early and keep trimming it. Plan 1–2 extra outfits and a warm layer; bring only a few quiet-time items you’ll actually use.
Preventing Homesickness
Photos and letters home help. Stay busy—remember you’ll probably miss camp when you’re back home.
Good Attitude = Better Week
A positive mood lifts the whole cabin. Have a good time—even if an activity isn’t your favorite.
Quiet-Time Entertainment
Bring a book or bracelet kit for down time.
Headphones for Peace
Noise-canceling headphones help if your bunk is loud.
Talk With Your Counselor
Feeling homesick? Your counselor can connect you with others and help you settle in—she’s more than staff; she’s support.
Homesick?
It happens to all ages. Talk to a counselor or older camper, and bring a few photos or a small stuffie (only if you won’t be upset if it’s lost).
Stay in Touch After Camp
Send a quick note on holidays or breaks—arriving as “old friends” next year feels great.
Bunk Setup (Another Take)
Comfort first: sheet, sleeping bag, blanket, 1–2 pillows. Decorate with photos and lights. Keep a small box by the bed for books and activities.
Limit Your Packing
Aim for a trunk, a hiking pack (or required bag), and a backpack. Fold small, pack versatile colors, and only a few activities for cabin time.
Bring Extra Socks
You’ll lose some—pack extras.
Try the Food
Even picky eaters find new favorites—give meals a shot.
Get Dirty
It’s camp—some activities are messy. Pack a few “don’t care” outfits.
Decorate Your Space
Small decor like string lights and a few photos make the bunk feel like yours.
Mix It Up
Don’t repeat the same activity all week—try a variety to discover new favorites.
Before you go: double-check your camp’s guidelines, then pick a few tips to try. And if you’ve got a trick that saved the day, send it our way so we can pin it for the next crew. Have a blast, be kind, try the new thing, and come home full of stories (and maybe a few muddy socks).