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

I always leave a few packages/pieces of mail in the main office to be delivered to my daughter with dates on them. In one I always add a few things to share with the campers - glow sticks, funky sunglasses, maybe a game to play etc. My daughter often says she thinks it helps the cabin bond a little. I like this one to be delivered on day two!

Kathy F.
Parent of a Camper
Camp Takodah
3 Years

If your camp does color themed activities, Make sure you have solid options to be on specific teams (most likely red, blue, black, yellow and green)

Mikenna D. 
Camp Staff Member
YMCA Camp Cory
10 Years

Under the bed storage is always key. Make sure your luggage can fit underneath, even if it needs to be open to do so. I store my suitcase under a camp bed, opened, so their are two halves and it fits

Mikenna D. 
Camp Staff Member
YMCA Camp Cory
10 Years