The Ultimate Summer-Camp Packing Guide For Kids

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There's nothing quite like camp to signal the start of summer. From craft time to trying new sports, staying up far too late, and making new friends over peanut butter and Oreos, the excitement around camp is real. We'd venture to guess just the thought of summer camp cues a bit of nostalgia for parents, too!

But it might be time for your kid to pack a duffel and have an adventure of their own. If your kid is heading out to overnight or even day camp, make sure you're packing up all the goodies they'll need to stay safe, have fun, and make some lasting memories of their own.

Keep reading for the ultimate summer-camp essentials list.

Athleta Girl Comeback Tee
athleta.com

Athleta Girl Comeback Tee

You can never beat a classic tee for any summer activity. We're calling the Athleta Girl Comeback Tee ($36) the must have for camp adventures. The super-lightweight design and mesh construction make this an airy, cool option that can go from kickball to hiking to the mess hall.

Kitsch 8 Pack Spiral Hair Ties
sephora.com

Kitsch 8 Pack Spiral Hair Ties

Your kid doesn't want to be slowed down at camp, so hair in the eyes is an absolute no-go. The Kitsch 8 Pack Spiral Hair Ties ($9) is a no-tug, stay-in-place option for the kid on the go.

Athleta Girl High Rise Stash Your Treasures Capri
athleta.com

Athleta Girl High Rise Stash Your Treasures Capri

If your kid is opting for sports camp, make sure they're outfitted right. We like the Athleta Girl High Rise Stash Your Treasures Capri ($49) for its no-slip, total-stretch design that's ready for the day ahead. Your kid will like it for its fun floral pattern and bold coloring.

Athleta Girl On the Go Romper
athleta.com

Athleta Girl On the Go Romper

Sometimes you just need a total do-it-all. Consider the Athleta Girl On the Go Romper ($58) that piece. This tie-dye onesie is perfect for exploring, lounging, or sitting poolside. The adjustable waistband and zippered pockets mean they're always comfortable.

Marie Stationery Box Set
paper-luxe.com

Marie Stationery Box Set

If sleep-away camp is on the calendar, make sure your kid is ready to write home. Sure, texting is always there, but there's something extra fun about addressing a letter home. We love the kid-friendly Marie Stationery Box Set ($33) to let their artistic side shine.

Athleta Girl Adjustable Everyday Non Medical Masks 5 Pack
athleta.com

Athleta Girl Adjustable Everyday Non Medical Masks 5 Pack

Depending upon camp rules, masks might be a necessity. The masks in the Athleta Girl Adjustable Everyday Non Medical Masks 5 Pack ($25) come in a variety of cute colors and feature adjustable straps for comfort and safety.

S'well Rose Agate Bottle
swell.com

S'well Rose Agate Bottle

With all that crafting, running, and learning, hydration is key. The S'well Rose Agate Bottle ($35) comes in three sizes and fits in most bottle pockets on backpacks for easy toting and hydration on the run.

Athleta Girl Baseball Cap
athleta.com

Athleta Girl Baseball Cap

We all know the importance of sun protection. And next to SPF (don't worry, that's on the list too!), a classic hat like the Athleta Girl Baseball Cap ($20) is a great protective option. This cotton cap is packable and light for tossing in a backpack.

Athleta Girl Short Sleeve One Piece
athleta.com

Athleta Girl Short Sleeve One Piece

Depending on where your kid is headed, pool activities might be on the agenda. In that case, deck them out in an active swimsuit. We like the Athleta Girl Short Sleeve One Piece ($59) for its soft and stretchy Lycra® Xtra Life fabric that lets them swim, surf, dive, and play with ease.

Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50
athleta.com

Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50

Didn't think we'd skimp on sunscreen, did you? The Glow Stick SPF 50 by Supergoop ($25) is a great, non-gloopy and -gloppy option for the kid who has a bit of a hard time remembering to reapply. This roll-on stick isn't greasy or oily but still gets the job done with SPF 50.

Athleta Girl Field Day Tankini Top
athleta.com

Athleta Girl Field Day Tankini Top

It's ready for water sports, it's ready for land sports — it's ready for it all. Just like your kid, the Athleta Girl Field Day Tankini Top ($35) is prepared to go from swimming to hanging without missing a beat. The quick-drying tankini means your kid can dry off and get going with ease.

Athleta Girl Cannonball Short
athleta.com

Athleta Girl Cannonball Short

Pair the colorful tankini with the Athleta Girl Cannonball Short ($35). Although this short is outfitted with pool-ready material and built-in briefs, it's also stretchy and moveable for other "land" activities.