10 Camp Shopping and Packing Tips

March 24, 2026

We’re now just one season away from Maine Camp summer 2026! With less than 100 days ’til camp begins, here are 10 useful shopping and packing tips and resources:

  1. Go through last year’s stuff first - It can be tedious (and a little annoying for the kids to try stuff on), but necessary to let you know what can be reused from last year, handed down from older siblings, and what you need new.

  2. Consult your camp’s packing list - Don’t go overboard. The cabins don’t have endless space for a lot of extra stuff. And, camp is not about the stuff. Plus, camps may not allow some things not on their list like extra storage bins that take up space and floor rugs which can make it harder to sweep.

  3. Use your camp’s outfitter – They’ve been working with camps and camp families for decades. They’re great with sizing and know what you’ll need for your specific camp. They carry apparel, sports gear, sheet sets, trunks, and more, and can label your items. Most offer in-person, online, and even Zoom/FaceTime appointments.

  4. Book your outfitter appointment early – Give yourself ample time to place the order and receive the apparel and gear in case you need to make any exchanges or order additional.

  5. Get camp classics – Classic camp must-haves include: Flashlight (some campers also like a headlamp), fan, two water bottles, rain boots, raincoat, shower caddy, shower shoes like flip flops or Crocs, sunscreen, cozy bunkwear, a chair, and sports equipment like shin guards, mitt, and racquet.

  6. Purchase a few fun finds – Include a few fun finds like stationery sets and clipboard case for mail, music player, playing cards, beads and string for bracelets, and stickers. Potentially include a cute pillow or stuffed animal, and tape to hang a few printed photos from home.

  7. Comfy, not fancy clothes – Clothing should be comfortable, ready for active days, and not super fancy, expensive, or revealing. Some shirts with the camp’s name will be required for everyday and/or trips.

  8. Include a few theme day items – A tie dye shirt (Woodstock), a flannel shirt (Western), and shirts in camp colors or several primary colors (Olympics). Also for Olympic-type events - items like colored bandanas and hair bows work well. (And whatever you don’t have, camp will provide, you can create, or you can trade with camp friends.)

  9. Label everything – Many campers will have similar clothing and gear. Sew in, stick on, or write on your child’s name on everything. Sharpie markers in black and white or silver are great.

  10. Portect your items while in transit – If your camper’s belongings will be traveling by soft duffles as many are, it’s useful to a) unscrew caps of toiletries like shampoo and line with a layer of wrap before screwing back on tightly and b) put all clothing, shoes, and gear in oversized Ziplock bags or zipper plastic trunks inside the duffles to keep them dry from rain or items spilling in transit. Bags can be reused for several years.

Here are several great camp resources for camp gear:

Have any quesions? Ask:

  • your camp’s office
  • your camp’s outfitter
  • a current camp family
  • Laurie, the Campcierge: laurie@mainecampexperience.com

Maine Camp Experience Resources & Tools

Looking for the perfect Maine camp for your child? Try out our helpful tool where you can select a camp by choosing: type of camp (girls, boys or coed) and session length (1-8 weeks). It helps to narrow down a few camps to a manageable list that includes rates. Then you can research these camps in more depth. Next, be sure to contact our Maine Camp Guide, Laurie to discuss these camps as well as for free, year-round advice and assistance on choosing a great Maine summer camp for your child.

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