Advance Planning for Kids' Sleepaway Summer Camp

It may be hard to imagine summer if you’re still experiencing cold and snow, but the fact remains that the warm season will be here before you know it.

Summer for many kids means sleepaway camp, so it's wise to start preparing a list of what you'll need now before it's time to head out for another adventure.

Knowing the essential things to bring -- as well as what's best off left at home -- can help you better prepare for the adventure.

What to Bring to Camp

It’s summer camp after all, so swimwear is essential. It's a good idea to bring at least three to four bathing suits or swim trunks so you always have a dry pair to wear while the others are drying out.

Some camps do not allow bikinis, only one-piece swimsuits, so be sure to check.

12 pairs of socks and two pairs of sneakers are recommended, along with a (broken-in) pair of hiking boots.

Sneakers are imperative for fitness activities but flip-flops are OK for those lounging-around times…and remember, camp is the one place where Crocs are still cool!

Figure on 12 pairs of underwear. Bring 10 t-shirts plus a few long-sleeved tees, 2 sweatshirts and 8-10 pairs of shorts.

At least half of those should be athletic shorts.

The main idea here is comfort. Leave the designer clothes at home and pack not only comfortable clothing but inexpensive clothing as well.

You'll be engaging in lots of nature, fitness and sports activities that lend themselves to dirty days. Bring clothes you don't mind ruining.

Pack your favorite pillow with a couple of cases and 2 sets of twin-size sheets (flat and fitted).

You’ll need a comforter or 3 blankets for those chilly nights, as well as 2 or 3 pairs of pajamas.

A flashlight with extra batteries is a good idea for nighttime when you have to navigate from the campfire to your camp or from your bed to the bathroom.

Don't forget your personal items; use a shower caddy to hold comb or hairbrush, toothbrush and toothpaste, biodegradable shampoo, body soap and deodorant (please!).

You’ll need 5 towels and 4 washcloths too.

Speaking of personal items, guys – you may want to bring along a protective cup since you’ll be participating in a variety of sports.

Protect yourself against the sun and irritating bugs with plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent.

You'll go through a lot so bring a couple of bottles of each just to be safe.

Don’t forget hats with brims to keep the sun off your face, and a liter water bottle to keep hydrated.

Be prepared for rainy days by bringing a water-repellent rain jacket.

Toss in a fleece for chilly evenings, along with 2 or 3 pairs of long pants. Don’t forget your sleeping bag, and you may want a cushy mat to place under it for added comfort.

Other equipment you may want to add, or may be required by your summer camp, include shin guards, soccer cleats, tennis racquet, softball/baseball glove, and lacrosse stick, pads and helmet.

Bring a daypack to carry your essentials. If you’re an older camper you may need a frame pack for longer hiking trips.

You'll also need pens, pencils and paper to write letters or journal entries. Optional items you don't have to bring but may want to include fishing tackle, camera, musical instrument and comfort items such as your favorite stuffed animal.

Don’t forget – ALL of this has to be clearly labeled with your full name.

Depending upon the item, you can use indelible pen, sewn-on or iron-on name tapes, or a labeler such as a Label Daddy.

What to Leave at Home

When headed out for summer camp, there are some things that are best left at home.

Most camps do not allow cell phones, e-readers, two-way radios, electronic video games, pocket knives, gum, candy, jewelry and makeup.

The point of summer camp is to disconnect from the virtual world and enter the real one, meeting new people and re-connecting with old friends.

Besides, many times cell phone reception is sketchy at best and you won't get a signal anyway. If you need to make a phone call, you can always use the camp phones.

Now, what do you put all this stuff in?

A large, soft-sided duffel will do the trick.

Rolling clothing, instead of folding it, can help you save space while preventing wrinkles.

Preparing the essentials for summer camp can be an exciting time.

It's wise to use a checklist so as you pack, so you can make sure you are bringing everything you need.

Happy camping!

Is your kid heading for summer camp?

If you’re looking for the best coed sleepaway summer camp in New England, check out Camp Walt Whitman.

Generations of families have spent awesome summers in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

Visit the site at http://www.campwalt.com