It is your child’s favorite time of year: summer camp. Kids love going to summer camp because they get to see their friends and participate in various activities. However, before you send them off, there are some things they are going to need. Here are some essential items you’ll want to pack your child for summer camp.
Sunscreen – This is a must-have item for all summer campers. Sunburns are not only painful, but they can also damage the skin. Be sure to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher with zinc oxide such as Blue Lizard. Be sure to stress to your child the importance of applying sunscreen before they head outside in the morning and reapply every two hours.
Bug repellent – Most summer camps are in wooded areas so there will be plenty of bugs, especially mosquitoes and bees. The last thing you or your child wants is to have their summer camp time ruined by a bee sting. Be sure to look for a bug repellent that is DEET-FREE such as Natrapel.
Flashlight – While some summer camps provide their campers with flashlights for nighttime, you may want to pack one just in case they don’t provide one, or the one they provide has dead or low batteries.
Cap/hat – Wearing a cap or hat while outdoors will not only provide additional sun protection for your child but will also help to reduce sun glare in their eyes.
Water bottle – Staying hydrated is an important part of summer. Be sure you pack your child a durable water bottle for summer camp activities such as hiking.
Rain jacket – While kids would like to think that every single day of summer camp is going to be filled with tons of sunshine, Mother Nature doesn’t always agree. It is important to pack some wet weather gear for your child like a rain jacket or poncho.