Campers, parents, and staff have been there, done that—and they’ve got the stories (and dirt stains) to prove it! We’ve pinned their best tips right here on the board, so you can scoop up the wisdom before you even pack your trunk. Think of it as a collection of insider secrets, camp hacks, and straight-from-the-heart advice—all waiting for you to dive in.
Get Dirty
Don't be afraid to try new things. You're at camp, get a little dirty. Some activities might have you get messy so when your packing, bring clothes you don't care about.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 Years
Variety in New Things
Camp activities are fun! However they can only be fun when you try new ones! Maybe one day you’re doing arts and crafts and you really like it and then you keep doing it and you wont get to do other activities. Try to get a variety and try new things.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 Years
New Activities
New activities can be scary, but if you look at all the activities that you're amazing at and love to do now, there was always that time in your life before you had ever tried it, when it too was new to you… and most importantly have fun.
Bry W.Camp Staff Member - Lifeguard1 Year
Listen, Listen, Listen
Listen when they explain the activities you are about to do, because then you’ll have more fun.
Gigi S.CamperCamp Highlander2 Years
Branch Out, Try New Things
Don’t be afraid to try new things, because they could end up being your favorite. For example, I tried riflery and I loved it!
Gigi S.CamperCamp Highlander2 Years
Try New Things
Try new activities at camp even if you are feeling scared or nervous. The counselors will help you!
Salomon A.CamperFalling Creek Camp2 Years
Bracelet Making Kits
Since the kids don't have access to electronics at camp, they have a lot more free time! Consider sending bracelet making string in a plastic container with lots of colors. They will be able to share with their new friends and will improve their abilities by learning new stitches.
Julie B.Parent of a CamperCamp Wise3 Years
Try a New Activity
Eyeing that class/activity that you’ve never tried? Jump on the opportunity, your counselors, fellow campers, and staff will love to support you in this new adventure!
Madison E.Camp Staff MemberKickapoo Kamp for Girls5 years
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, trust me it’s so much more fun to get into the themes!
Madison E.Camp Staff MemberKickapoo Kamp for Girls5 years
So go on—soak it up, get inspired, and bring that energy with you to camp. Whether you’re gearing up for wild theme nights, braving new activities, or making your first friendship bracelet, these tips are your jumpstart to an unforgettable summer. Camp’s calling…are you ready to answer?
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.
SALEWA B.CamperCamp Netimus for Girls1 year
Pack Early
Same deal—pack over a few days instead of the night before so nothing gets missed.
Salewa B.CamperCamp Netimus1 year
Bring Memories
Pack photos and tape to decorate your bunk. Seeing home on the wall helps with homesickness.
Mary B.CamperYosemite Sierra Summer Camp1 year
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.
Mary B.CamperYosemite Sierra Summer Camp1 year
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.
Mary B.CamperYosemite Sierra Summer Camp1 year
Bring an Instrument
If you play, pack something portable (guitar, uke). Great for talent shows—no regrets if you bring your own.
Mary B.CamperYosemite Sierra Summer Camp1 year
If You Might Need It, Pack It
Better to have a spare than come up short.
SALEWA B.CamperCamp Netimus for Girls1 year
Mattress Pad
An egg-crate topper turns any bunk into a comfy bed—instant hangout spot.
Lily O.CamperCamp Rim Rock for Girls5 years
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.
Lily O.CamperCamp Rim Rock for Girls5 years
Trunk + Duffle
A sturdy trunk is key. If allowed, add a duffle and backpack for overflow items.
Laine P.CamperCamp Point Clear7 years
Shower Caddy & Wrap Towel
A caddy keeps shampoo/soap together. A wrap towel frees your hands on the walk back from the showers.
Laine P.CamperCamp Point Clear7 years
Bedding Setup
Thin camp mattresses? Add an egg-crate and a topper if allowed. Pack two sheet sets and a warm blanket or quilt.
Laine P.CamperCamp Point Clear7 years
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.
Jessica M.CamperCamp Seven Hills9 years
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.
Jessica M.CamperCamp Seven Hills9 years
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.
Jessica M.CamperCamp Seven Hills9 years
Claim Your Items
Put your name on everything. Everything.
Lily O.CamperCamp Rim Rock for Girls5 years
Mad Libs for Rainy Days
A big Mad Libs book is perfect when everyone’s stuck inside.
Lily O.CamperCamp Rim Rock for Girls5 years
Extra Bed Sheets
A second set midweek helps with dirt and sand.
Kari B.CamperCamp Huckins5 years
Glide & Go Trays
Great catch-all storage for the small extras.
Kari B.CamperCamp Huckins5 years
Sticker Spot
Your trunk makes a perfect sticker canvas.
Kari B.CamperCamp Huckins5 years
Always Ask
If you need something, speak up.
Jessica M.CamperCamp Seven Hills9 years
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.
Jessica M.CamperCamp Seven Hills9 years
Bring Friends (or a Sibling)
Camp is even better with someone you know—share what to expect and get them excited to join.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Limit What You Bring
You don’t need your whole room. Ask an experienced camper how much downtime there really is and pack accordingly.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Birthdays at Camp
If your birthday lands during camp, plan something fun with friends—camp birthdays can be the best.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Pre-Address Letters
Pre-address envelopes before you go. You’ll actually send mail.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Shower When You Can
Hot water and time slots are precious—take them when they’re open.
Kari B.CamperCamp Huckins5 years
Ask Questions
If you’re unsure what to do, ask. Staff will help.
Margaret S.CamperCamp Ozark2 years
Have Fun, Don’t Dwell
You’ll make friends. Bring a family photo if you miss home, and keep trying new things.
Margaret S.CamperCamp Ozark2 years
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.
Margaret S.CamperCamp Ozark2 years
Keep Gear Accessible
Organize so you can grab things fast and stay with your group—especially your first year.
Margaret S.CamperCamp Ozark2 years
Packing Cubes = Space
Packing cubes fit more and keep it neat. If not your style, experiment with folding methods to maximize space.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
No Food/Moisture in the Trunk
Avoid packing anything that can spill or mold.
Gigi S.CamperCamp Highlander2 years
Listen, Listen, Listen
Pay attention to activity instructions—more fun, less confusion.
Gigi S.CamperCamp Highlander2 years
Branch Out
Try new activities—you might find a favorite you didn’t expect.
Gigi S.CamperCamp Highlander2 years
Try New Things
Even if you’re nervous, counselors will help.
Salomon A.CamperFalling Creek Camp2 years
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.
Margaret S.CamperCamp Ozark2 years
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.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Preventing Homesickness
Photos and letters home help. Stay busy—remember you’ll probably miss camp when you’re back home.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Good Attitude = Better Week
A positive mood lifts the whole cabin. Have a good time—even if an activity isn’t your favorite.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Quiet-Time Entertainment
Bring a book or bracelet kit for down time.
Gigi S.CamperCamp Highlander2 years
Headphones for Peace
Noise-canceling headphones help if your bunk is loud.
Gigi S.CamperCamp Highlander2 years
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.
Anna F.CamperCamp DeSoto1 year
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).
Laine P.CamperCamp Point Clear7 years
Stay in Touch After Camp
Send a quick note on holidays or breaks—arriving as “old friends” next year feels great.
Andrew S.CamperCamp Longhorn1 year
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.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
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.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Bring Extra Socks
You’ll lose some—pack extras.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Try the Food
Even picky eaters find new favorites—give meals a shot.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Get Dirty
It’s camp—some activities are messy. Pack a few “don’t care” outfits.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
Decorate Your Space
Small decor like string lights and a few photos make the bunk feel like yours.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha 4 years
Mix It Up
Don’t repeat the same activity all week—try a variety to discover new favorites.
Kate W.CamperYMCA Camp Arbutus Hayo-Went-Ha4 years
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).
