Summer camp packing list for kids
- Summer camp is not tent camping — cabins often include beds; leave the tent and stove at home.
- Scout and BSA camps often require uniform shirts, handbook, and labeled gear — check your camp list first.
- Label everything with permanent marker — laundry rooms mix up identical hoodies fast.
What you’ll likely need
A quick peek at must-bring and strongly suggested items for this trip. Your full checklist with checkboxes appears in a moment.
- Child swim vest or PFD (if not a strong swimmer)
- Extra warm layer for kids at night
- Kids headlamp (hands free at night)
- Kids rain jacket
- Kids sleeping bag (rated for night temps)
- Kids rash guard / UV swim shirt
- Kids sun hat with strap
- Scout uniform / troop t-shirt
- Car seat (properly installed)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Permanent marker & name labels
- Refillable water bottle (labeled)
- Sleeping bag (check camp requirements)
- Child's own carry-on backpack
- Children's pain/fever medicine (proper dose)
- Comfort item (stuffed animal or small blanket)
- Spare outfit for each child
- Tablet or phone with offline shows & games
- Wired headphones (plane & car)
- Ziplock bag of snacks your child picked
- Extra socks & underwear per child
- Kids rain jacket or packable shell
- Kids sunscreen SPF 50+
- Shower flip-flops
- Towels (bath & swim)
- Daypack for hikes & activities
- Scout handbook
- Downloaded audiobooks or podcasts
- Backup snacks in parent bag
- Small cooler bag for drinks & lunch
- Backseat organizer (toys, wipes, snacks)
- Car trash bag
- Kids entertainment (books/games)
- Pillow or camp pillow
- Plastic bags for dirty laundry
- Activity book (stickers, puzzles, or coloring)
- Comfy clothes to change into before boarding
- Digital thermometer
- Emergency info card in backpack
- Extra wet wipes
- ID wristband with parent phone number
- Kids neck pillow
- Motion sickness bands, wipes, or medicine
Tips for this trip
- Pack a flashlight or headlamp — required on many Scout camp packing lists for cabin paths after dark.
- Send stationery and pre-stamped envelopes if the camp allows mail.
- Use zip bags to separate clean and dirty clothes in a shared cubby.
More camping packing lists guides on our camping packing lists hub , or use the full packing tool
Common questions
What is on a BSA summer camp packing list? +
Typical Scout camp lists include labeled clothing, uniform shirt, handbook, flashlight, shower shoes, towels, sleeping bag, and a daypack for hikes. Electronics and knives are often banned — our skip list reminds you to check camp rules.
How is summer camp different from camping? +
Summer camp stays use cabins or bunks with counselors — you need labeled clothes and toiletries, not tents or camp stoves. Use our camping list if you are pitching a tent instead.
Can I print this summer camp list as a PDF? +
Yes. Build your list above, then use Print and choose Save as PDF for a checklist with checkboxes.
Is this a kids summer camp packing list? +
Yes — it is built for children staying at Scout, BSA, or sleepaway camp without parents. For family tent trips, use our camping with kids list instead.