Camp Packing: Excitement Begins for Summer Camp
There's something special about packing for camp. It's the moment summer starts to feel real. Duffel bags come out, names go on everything and the countdown officially begins. At Camp Lincoln for Boys and Camp Lake Hubert for Girls, we'll take care of the days once campers arrive. But packing is where families can set the tone to help campers feel confident, prepared and ready to jump in from the very first day.
You'll find the full packing list in the Parent Handbook, but here are a few camp-tested tips to make the process smoother and a lot more fun.
Packing Tips from Camp Lincoln & Camp Lake Hubert Staff
Pack with your Camper; Not for Them
Packing is part of the camp experience. Campers are responsible for packing up at the end of the session, and a little practice now goes a long way. We encourage you to pack with your camper so they:
- Know what they're bringing
- Remember where things are
- Feel confident unpacking and repacking on their own
Do a Practice Run (It Makes a Difference)
Before camp, have your camp unpack and repack their bag. It builds confidence and makes that first night at camp feel easy and familiar.
- Unpack their bag
- Find a few items
- Repack everything on their own
Rain Gear & Water Shoes = A Better Day at Camp
Camp doesn't stop for weather — and some of the best moments happen in the rain. Our lakes are beautiful — and like many in Minnesota, they include zebra mussels. Proper water shoes help protect campers' feet and keep them comfortable during all waterfront activities. Crocs are great for around camp and make excellent shower shoes, but they don't provide the protection needed for waterfront activities or most active parts of the day.
Be sure to pack:
- Full rain gear (not just a sweatshirt)
- Sturdy, closed-toe water shoes
Pack for Camp Traditions & Special Moments
Some of the most memorable moments at camp are the traditions — the ones campers talk about long after summer ends.
Make sure your camper is ready for:
- Banquets and special events (pack one "nice outfit")
- Sunday traditions at each camp
- Camp Lincoln: Camp Lincoln gear
- Camp Lake Hubert: a white outfit for Sunday Chapel
Bring a Little Bit of Home
Camp quickly becomes home but a small piece of home can make those first few days even easier. These simple items help campers settle in and make their space their own.
We recommend:
- Favorite stuffed animal
- Blanket or pillow from home
Keep It Simple
One of the biggest packing mistakes? Bringing too much. Camp is designed to be simple, and packing that way helps campers. We encourage sticking closely to the packing list as it includes everything they need. This helps them:
- Stay organized
- Find items easily
- Feel more independent
Read the Camp Packing List Together
Before camp, take time as a family to go through the packing list and Parent Handbook. Getting ready for camp is part of the adventure and doing it together makes a big difference.
It helps everyone:
- Understand what to expect
- Feel prepared for daily camp life
- Avoid surprises
Leave Room for the Extras
Campers always come home with more than they brought in the best way. Be sure to leave a little extra space for things like:
- Camp swag
- Tie-dye t-shirt
- Special keepsakes from meaningful moments at camp
What If You Forget Something?
It happens and there's no need to panic. Our packing list is designed to include everything your camper truly needs, and our team is always here to help problem-solve if something small is forgotten. If you realize something important was left behind, please contact the Camp Director before sending anything to camp. This helps us make sure it gets to your camper at the right time and avoids unnecessary packages being returned.
In many cases, campers adjust just fine and sometimes it's even part of the growth that comes with being at camp.
One Last Thought
Packing isn't just preparation — it's the beginning of the experience. It's where independence starts, confidence builds and the excitement of camp really takes hold. Once they arrive, the bags get tucked away and the real magic begins. Go go our website to learn more about our camps.
