Sending your daughter off to summer camp is an exciting milestone—an opportunity for adventure, independence, and lifelong memories.
But before the fun begins, there’s one major hurdle: packing. What should she bring? How do you fit everything into a trunk? What if she forgets something important?
Packing for camp doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right packing strategy and checklist, you can ensure she has everything she needs to feel comfortable, confident, and prepared for an amazing camp experience.
From clothing and bedding to toiletries and must-have extras, this guide will help you pack efficiently and effectively for summer camp at Camp Chinqueka.
Step 1: Choose the Right Luggage
Before you start packing, decide what she’ll use to store her belongings.
- A sturdy trunk (18x32x13 inches) is the best option for organization and durability.
- Packing cubes and organizers help keep clothing and gear sorted, making it easy to grab what she needs.
- Label everything with her name—trust us, mix-ups happen!
With the right storage setup, your camper can quickly find what she needs instead of rummaging through a messy trunk.
Step 2: Pack the Right Clothing for Every Activity
At camp, days are packed with outdoor fun, swimming, hiking, and campfires. Pack clothing that is comfortable, durable, and weather-appropriate.
Everyday Wear:
- 8-10 T-shirts and tank tops
- 8-10 pairs of shorts
- 2 pairs of jeans or sweatpants (for cooler days)
- 3-4 swimsuits (quick-dry fabrics work best!)
- 12 pairs of socks (some camps suggest packing extra!)
- 10 sets of underwear ✔️ 3 pairs of pajamas (including 1 warm set)
- 1 raincoat or poncho for unexpected showers
- 2-3 sweatshirts or hoodies for chilly nights
- 1 set of “nice” clothes for special camp events
Footwear:
- 2 pairs of sneakers (a backup is always a good idea!)
- 1 pair of flip-flops or Crocs for the shower
- 1 pair of waterproof sandals for water activities
Packing Tip: Roll clothes instead of folding them—this saves space and reduces wrinkles!
Step 3: Bedding & Sleep Comfort
After an action-packed day, a good night’s sleep is essential. Most camps provide a mattress, but campers should bring their own bedding:
Must-Have Bedding Items:
- Warm comforter or sleeping bag
- Twin sheets (2 fitted, 2 flat for backup)
- 1 pillow + 2 pillowcases
- Extra blanket (perfect for cool nights or outdoor sleepovers!)
Tip: Pack bedding in a large zippered bag or space-saver bag to keep it clean and compact.
Step 4: Toiletries & Personal Care Essentials
Keeping up with hygiene at camp is important, and an easy-to-carry shower caddy will make it simple to transport everything to and from the bathhouse.
Toiletry Essentials:
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Shampoo + conditioner
- Body wash or soap
- Deodorant (a must-have!)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
- Sunscreen + bug spray (non-aerosol if required by camp)
Tip: Use travel-size bottles to save space!
Step 5: Smart Packing Strategies
To keep things organized and easy to access, use these space-saving tips:
Use Packing Cubes: Sort clothes by category (shirts in one, socks in another, etc.).
Pack a Separate Day Bag: Fill it with daily essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, and a hat.
Create a Packing Checklist: Tape it inside the trunk lid so your camper can double-check items when packing up to come home!
Step 6: Fun Extras & Personal Comforts
Beyond the essentials, pack a few items to make camp feel more like home:
Personal Fun Items:
- A favorite book or journal
- Playing cards or small games
- Pre-stamped envelopes & stationery for letters home
- A small flashlight + extra batteries
- Photos from home or a favorite stuffed animal
Tip: Many camps have themed dress-up days, so a fun costume or silly hat is always a great extra!
What NOT to Pack
Most camps have a prohibited items list, so be sure to check before packing. Commonly banned items include:
- Electronics (phones, tablets, gaming devices)
- Snacks or food (unless required for dietary needs)
- Expensive items (jewelry, designer clothes)
- Weapons, lighters, or anything hazardous
More Than Just Packing: The Full Camp Chinqueka Experience
At Camp Chinqueka, packing is just the beginning of an unforgettable summer. Beyond what your daughter brings with her, it’s the camp’s philosophy, programs, and supportive environment that make her experience truly meaningful.
Chinqueka’s camp philosophy is centered on building confidence, fostering friendships, and encouraging personal growth.
Every activity and moment at camp is designed to help campers develop independence while feeling supported by a welcoming community of counselors and fellow campers.
The diverse camp programs ensure that every camper finds something they love, whether it’s trying a new sport, performing in a talent show, or developing leadership skills.
With structured activities and free-choice periods, Chinqueka provides the perfect mix of adventure, creativity, and personal development.
If you’re still considering enrolling your daughter for an incredible summer, now is the time to secure her spot! Check out the enrollment page for availability and registration details.
Spots at Camp Chinqueka fill up fast! Don’t wait—give your child the gift of adventure, independence, and lifelong friendships.
Summary
- Packing for summer camp doesn’t have to be stressful—organization is key!
- Choose the right luggage, like a sturdy trunk with packing cubes for easy organization.
- Pack smart clothing for various activities, including casual wear, swimwear, and layers for cooler nights.
- Don’t forget bedding essentials, such as a sleeping bag, sheets, pillow, and extra blankets.
- Toiletries & personal care items like shampoo, sunscreen, and bug spray ensure comfort and hygiene.
- Use space-saving strategies, such as rolling clothes and packing cubes, for an efficient setup.
- Fun extras like books, stationery for letters home, and a small flashlight can make camp feel more like home.
- Check the camp’s prohibited items list to avoid bringing electronics, snacks, or valuables.
- Label everything to prevent lost items and help your camper stay organized.
- Start packing early to ensure you don’t forget any must-have items.