Packing for Camp
When kids go to camp in the summer, there’s a standard list of items they’re asked to bring.
Most kids can find everything they need to bring at home or buy what they don’t have at the store.
Some of the boys and girls who come to The Salvation Army’s camps need some help getting there and some help supplying a few of the essentials.
Joel* came to summer camp not long ago with a backpack that looked empty when he tossed it up on his bunk bed. His counselor asked him what he brought and he proudly showed him the bike lock inside.
Thankfully, our donors who give to support camp also make sure every that kid has a toothbrush, sleeping bag, bug spray and other needed items.
In order to have a safe, healthy and stress-free week at camp, here’s what we recommend every kid bring – if they can – in addition to their summer play clothes:
- Flashlight and new batteries
- Plastic water bottles with attached lid
- Sunscreen—4-8 oz.—SPF 30
- Travel-size toothpaste & toothbrush
- Baseball cap
- Hand sanitizer—2-4 oz.
- Beach towel
- Wash cloth
- Backpack or beach bag
- Water shoes
- Insect repellent, individual size
- Sleeping bag
- Close-toed shoes & socks
- Flip flops
- Prescription medication, if needed
When their week at camp is over and they unpack their duffel bags, they’ll find memories of things like toasted marshmallows, conquering their fear on the ropes course, or a cool dip in the lake on a warm afternoon.
They’ll also find a self-confidence they didn’t know they had and friends with shared experiences that we hope will last a lifetime.
But mostly, they’ll bring home love - the deep and abiding love of a God that knows everything about them and cares about every detail. A God who will walk beside them for the rest of their lives.
Thank you for being the kind of person who wants to give every kid a chance to experience the life-changing things camp has to offer.
*”Joel” is a pseudonym. We’ve changed his name to protect his privacy.