Ideas to Aid You to Avoid Stress and Anxiety in Packing for a Camp

Whether your kid is attending a one-week or an eight-week camp, packing can seem like a intimidating task .Here are few things to consider before you start for a camp, the luggage to use and extra items that you may forget.

1. Things to inquire before you start packing for a camp

•    Would I get a camp clothing list? This might be your best source of information for what the camp may require and doesn’t. On the list, you can find a number of recommended clothing items and other things to bring for particular events, like overnight campouts or themed activities. If you have not received a clothing list, you can call the camp or visit their site and see if the list is available.
•    What they should not bring? Each camp is different and has their own rules for what every camper is allowed. So enquire about it.
•    Do they want uniforms? Several camps try to lessen “competitive dressing” among campers by having uniforms. Some camps require all clothing to include their camp logo; some may require a particular shirt and short color. Be sure to clear up any questions regarding your child’s necessary clothing before your child leaves for the camp.
•    What stuff does the camp offer? Some camps will provide sheets, mattress, and additional blankets and some even supply towels. Review your clothing catalog for more information about things the camp provides.

2. Selecting your type of luggage: Now you have the items that are needed to pack, what type of luggage you should use? Here is the list of the most common luggage types and pros and cons of each.

•    A Duffel bag: It is large and sturdy but it can get damaged if shipped.
•    Trunk: Good for camps with longer stays and is also sturdy and does not damage easily if shipped though it is bulky.
•    Suitcase: It is best for short camp stays; simple to organize clothing, as most of it have many compartments; easier for a child to carry alone as most have wheels and handles.

Things that you should not forget:

•    Adjoin a nametag to each piece of luggage.
•    Write down lock combination or have extra keys for key locks. Place them in a safe place for your child or you could give copies to your child’s counselor or camp director (some may require it).
•    Find out whether you could ship luggage directly from your residence to camp. Now many camps have assigned trucking companies to consider shipping your luggage through another shipping company.

Extras that you may forget

•    Medications: Find the camp’s events for handling daily medications or refills.
•    Forms: Most camps need a vaccination and a health screening form. Enquire when you need to send the completed forms to camp.
•    Updated contact information: If your contact information is changed since you registered your child for camp then call and update the camp director with your new contact information.