Awesome Summer Camp Gear for Kids

Whether your kids are heading to sleep-away or day camp, it'll be extra fun with these must-have items!

May 16, 2024

By: Samantha Lande

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Photo By: PeopleImages

Summer Camp Essentials

School’s (almost) out for the summer and it’s time to go to camp! Whether your kids will be staying overnight or going to a day camp, it’s time to start shopping. Grab this gear and get ready for an awesome summer!

A Great Backpack

Adventures await! Your camper will need somewhere to store all of their gear as they create cool art projects, learn new games, and maybe even take a canoe trip. Look for a backpack that’s durable, comfortable, and can hold up to the elements, like this North Face version.

BUY IT: The North Face, $49

Cool Bandages

Cuts, bumps, and bruises — they're part of being out in nature and having a fun time. Turn boo boos into something stylish with these bandages from Welly. Whether it’s ice cream with sprinkles, color wash tie-dye, outer space, or monsters, you’ll want to have a pack of these in your kid’s backpack.

BUY IT: Target, $7

A Good Pair of Waterproof Shoes

From hanging pool side and running through the mud to throwing water balloons, camp can get pretty messy and wet. Be ready with a good pair of waterproof shoes made to stand up to the elements. We love Native Shoes for their bright colors and durability. They’re easy to wash and easy to wear!

BUY IT: Zappos, $50

Crazy Creek

An overnight camp favorite for years, this lightweight camping chair is what your kid will need for sitting around the firepit, gathering in a circle with counselors and fellow campers, or just chilling out to read their favorite book. It’s easy to fold up and store, and it will last for years.

BUY IT: Amazon, $53

Labels

It’s nearly impossible to go a whole summer without losing something, but having labels on everything certainly helps. This camp pack from Label Daddy has just about every size you’ll need (and you’ll likely have extras) to put a label on water bottles, clothes, towels, shoes, and more! They are waterproof, dryer safe, and freezer safe — so you can rest assured that wherever the "stuff" ends up, the label will stay put.

BUY IT: Label Daddy, $54

Sunscreen Stick

A good sunscreen is a must for summer camp and we love a stick for the face because it’s super easy to apply (especially when counselors may not be able to give much assistance this year). This one is a favorite for those on the move and it doesn’t leave a white residue like so many other sunscreens.

BUY IT: Amazon, $32.00

Insect Repellent

Mosquitos are everywhere in the summer and it’s hard to avoid the dreaded itchy bites — especially at camp. Bug stuff is a must! We love these wipes from Cutter because they make head-to-toe coverage easy without that greasy feeling. They are also easy to store in a bag without mistakenly spraying inside.

BUY IT: Amazon, $26.00 (Pack of 3)

A Great Water Bottle

Hiking in the sun or playing sports is exhausting without proper hydration. A good, durable water bottle is a must. The Nalgene is tried and true. Choose from a wide mouth or more of a sipping top. The large loop top makes it easy to carabineer to your backpack, and of course, the bottle is BPA-free.

BUY IT: Amazon, $17

Mini Camp Journals

Writing things down may feel like a lost art these days, but part of the fun of camp is capturing all of those great memories and the feelings you had! These adorable, mini camp journals are perfect for just that.

BUY IT: Amazon, $16

Cute, Custom Camp Gear

Everyone needs something to show off their camp spirit, whether it’s a t-shirt or a towel! We love these custom designed beach towels by KicksbySammy. They are super stylish, spirited, and practical.

BUY IT: KicksbySammy, $60

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Here’s What to Put in a Kid’s Camp Care Package, Ways to Make Your Kid Feel Like They're at Summer Camp, Parenting Win of the Week: The Transformative Power of Summer Camp

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