Packing for summer camp is not like packing for a sleepover or a weekend trip. Camps can last just a week or an entire summer, and packing enough supplies for that long can be a little chaotic. Here’s a summer camp packing checklist organized by categories so you don’t forget anything before zipping up your backpack.

Camp Essentials:

• First-aid kit
• Water shoes
• Flashlight
• Pillow
• Laundry bag
• Plastic baggies
• Water bottle
• Sleeping bag
• Journal
• Pens
• Rain boots
• Spending money
• Maps
• Goggles
• Sunglasses

1. Use a permanent marker to write your name on all your clothes and items.

2. Make sure you pack extra T-shirts and socks in case it’s an extra wet summer.

3. Bring an extra pair of old tennis shoes in case you need to play in them or get them dirty.

4. Try packing your clothes in groups of plastic bags. It will save you space in your trunk and help keep you organized during your time at camp.

5. Even if you’re allowed to use technology, avoid it! You’re going to camp to make friends and have fun, so leave your devices at home and enjoy!