As a mom who’s packed for summer camp more than once, I know the mental load it takes to make sure your kiddo has everything they need to feel safe, happy, and confident while away. Between the excitement of campfires and the chaos of last-minute prep, it’s easy to miss something small but essential.
So, I created this ultimate summer camp packing checklist to cover every little detail—and yes, there’s a printable too, because I know how helpful that is when you’re juggling everything else. Whether your child is heading off to a sleepaway camp aesthetic dreamland or a spirited American summer camp aesthetic packed with lake swims and s’mores, this list is for you.
The Camp Trunk Trifecta: Clothes, Layers & Late-Night Jammies
Camp mornings can start chilly, heat up by lunch, and turn downright cold at night. That means packing layers is key. I always include lightweight tees, long sleeves, hoodies, and one warm jacket. For bottoms, a mix of shorts, joggers, and comfy campfire leggings works perfectly.
Don’t forget a full week’s worth of underwear and pajamas—yes, including an extra pair for that night someone spills hot cocoa in the cabin. Think of it as prepping for every version of the summer camp vibes aesthetic: sunny hikes, misty mornings, and cozy bunk beds.
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The Sudsy Stuff: Bath Time, Tooth Time, Bug Time
Toiletries are more than just shampoo and toothpaste. I pack a shower caddy or zip bag with travel bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, a toothbrush with cover, toothpaste, and a hairbrush. I also add bug spray and sunscreen—because you know the mosquitoes are out for blood.
A pack of face wipes is a nice bonus for quick refreshes between summer camp activities aesthetic adventures. If your camper is younger, label everything and remind them that yes, soap is required even if they swim every day.
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The Snack Stash & Secret Treats Pocket
Some camps allow snacks, and if they do, I make sure to include some favorites that won’t melt or spoil. Granola bars, trail mix, and fruit snacks are always a hit. I usually hide a couple of surprise treats—like their favorite gum or a small chocolate bar—in a zippered pouch they won’t find until mid-week. It adds a touch of summer camp nostalgia aesthetic and a little love from home when they need it most.
SEE THIS: 10 Must-Have Items to Pack When Backpacking with Kids (and Staying Sane!).
The Wet & Wild Zone: Swimwear, Towels & Lake Day Musts
Between swimming lessons, canoeing, and floating on the lake, camp life gets wet. I pack two swimsuits (so one can dry while the other is in use), a beach towel, water shoes, and a mesh laundry bag for wet clothes. A lightweight rash guard adds sun protection for those long hours splashing around. This is where the Camp America aesthetic comes to life—all lake vibes and sunscreen-scented memories.
The Daily Essentials Pouch: Socks, Undies & Morning Routine Magic
Socks always disappear at camp. Always. I pack extra—at least two pairs per day—especially for camps that include hiking or muddy adventures. Same for underwear. I toss in a couple of bandanas too, which serve as napkins, headbands, or cooling cloths. It may seem small, but this pouch sets the tone for smooth mornings and that 70s camp counselor aesthetic charm.
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The “Mom Said So” Health Kit
This kit goes in every trunk I pack. I include a mini first aid kit (bandaids, antiseptic wipes, blister pads), allergy meds, motion sickness tablets, and a copy of the health insurance card. If your child takes daily meds, include them in the original bottle with dosing instructions. I even add a handwritten note that says, “You’ve got this.” It’s one of those quiet camp packing hacks that makes a big difference.
The Rainy Day Rescue Bag
A rainy camp day doesn’t have to mean soggy misery. I pack a compact poncho, waterproof boots, a hoodie, and an extra pair of dry socks in a plastic zip bag. This little kit stays near the top of the trunk so it’s easy to grab. Nothing says youth camp aesthetic like kids laughing under ponchos while jumping in puddles. It’s a must-have.
The Lights-Out Survival Kit: Flashlights, Flip-Flops & Campfire Layers
Once the sun sets at camp, it gets dark—like can’t-see-your-hand dark. So I always pack a reliable flashlight (with extra batteries), headlamp, and a book light if reading’s allowed. A cozy fleece or flannel is perfect for evenings at the fire pit. And flip-flops? Essential for late-night bathroom trips. This kit helps them feel secure and cozy, even during those summer camp slasher aesthetic ghost story nights.
SEE THIS: 25 Wholesome Summer Bucket List Ideas for Moms Who Want to Make 2025 Magical.
The Fun & Free Time Folder
When camp has downtime, I want my kid to have something fun to do that doesn’t involve a screen. I include a notebook, pens, pre-addressed envelopes with stamps for writing home, sticker sheets, a friendship bracelet kit, and a couple of card games. These little things fill in those gaps and encourage that summer camp with friends aesthetic that makes memories stick.
The Camper’s Command Center: Labels, Lists & Love Notes
I label every. single. item. From socks to shampoo, it all gets a label. I also include a laminated mini checklist of what they packed, so repacking on the last day is less chaotic. And my favorite addition? A few folded love notes hidden in pockets and between t-shirts. They’ll never say it out loud, but a little piece of home means everything in that summer camp aesthetic cabin.
The Theme Day Hero Kit
Camp directors love theme days, and kids love dressing up. I toss in a couple of costume accessories—like a silly hat, 80s sunglasses, neon socks, or a band tee—so they’re ready for Wacky Wednesday or Decade Day. It doesn’t take much to transform into the camp staff aesthetic superstar who goes all in. This is also where that American camp aesthetic flair gets to shine.
The Shoes for Every Scenario Lineup
Packing shoes is about versatility. I always send one pair of sneakers (for hikes and games), flip-flops (for the shower), and water shoes (for lakes and puddles). If it’s a longer camp stay, I might throw in a pair of Crocs or comfy slip-ons too. Having options means fewer complaints and fewer injuries, which is a major win in the world of camp packing hacks.
The Bunk Buddy Bedding Bundle
Most camps ask you to bring your own bedding, so I bundle a fitted sheet, a twin-size blanket, a pillow with a washable case, and a small stuffed animal if your camper still wants one. A cozy sleep setup makes all the difference in adjusting to sleepaway camp aesthetic life. Pro tip: roll everything into a laundry bag for easy carrying and unpacking.
The “Just in Case” Envelope
This little envelope has saved me more than once. I tuck in a copy of their camp registration, medical release, contact info for emergency pickup, a small amount of cash if allowed, and a list of any allergies or medical notes.
It stays at the bottom of the trunk, sealed and labeled. It’s the kind of mom-move that makes you feel like a summer camp director even if you’re just waving goodbye.
The Camp Core Aesthetic Finishing Touches
This is where the summer camp aesthetics come to life. I add a couple of patches to their backpack, a campy bandana, a journal with a vintage look, or a camp staff aesthetic water bottle covered in stickers.
It helps them feel like part of something special—like they’re living out their own summer camp 1980s movie moment. Because camp is more than what you pack—it’s the vibe they carry with them.
My full list…
That’s my full checklist, and I promise—if you use it, you’re not going to be the mom who forgot socks or bug spray. If you want to make it even easier, grab the free printable version I made (link below!). And remember: it’s not just about packing things, it’s about sending them off with everything they need to make magical memories.
Happy packing, mama!
