Summer Camp is just around the corner for all three of my kids. They’re headed to an overnight camp far away from home. This will be the first year for my youngest. My boys will be joined by 7 cousins for four weeks of fun.
We’re in the thick of packing and it looks like a bomb went off in our house. There are piles of clothing, sleeping bags, and underwear everywhere. Somehow everything will make its way into a duffel bag by the time we need to head out the door. Right?
Here are a few must-haves for anyone heading to summer camp (*affiliate links):
Clothing Labels
I’m a big fan of Mabel’s Labels for labeling clothing. Everything that goes to camp has to be labeled or it won’t make it home. Unfortunately, even with labels something is always left behind. My favorite labels are Mabel’s Labels Tag Mates, which stick directly onto the clothing tag and don’t come off. This year I decided to get the Limited Edition Camp Combo Packs, which includes a variety of labels (the shoe labels are awesome!).
Mabel’s Labels has a deal for Groovy Green Livin readers. This exclusive code is valid for $2 off any Mabel’s Labels purchase with the exception of Loot Bags & Write Aways. This code can’t be combined with any other promo offers and expires on June 30th 2014. Enter APY5SG2V at checkout.
Sunscreen
I recently spotted Acure Organics Shampoo
Bug Repellent
I’m sending all three kids to camp with a DEET free bug repellent. We’ve been using Buzzaway 
Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a tough one. They’re going to be brushing with Redmond Earthpaste Toothpaste.
I love the peppermint flavor. Every ingredient is safe to swallow!
Chapstick
My kids actually requested chapstick this year and it’s on the packing list as “optional”. I’ve been using Eco Lips Sport Spf 30 Organic Lip Balm Tube
Stationary
Writing letters has to be easy or you may never hear from your children. Last summer my son sent us several letters….without stamps. They never arrived! This Fold Over Stationery Set 
Body Lotion
Emily Baby & Adult Skin Soother (Unscented)
Bug Bite Relief
B
Bar of Soap
A bar of soap is always on the packing list for summer camp. Tom’s of Maine Moisturizing Bar is heading to camp this year. We’ll just have to wait and see if anyone actually uses it!
My list changes a bit each year. Here are a few summer camp favorites from years past:
- 5 Non-Toxic Summer Camp Essentials
- Non-Toxic Summer Camp Supplies
- My Picks for Non-Toxic Shampoos
- Tips to Prepare Your Child for Sleepaway Camp
What are your favorite summer camp essentials?
*Some links are affiliate links meaning, at no additional cost to you, I may get a small commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for supporting this site!
photo credit: bruna camargo via photopin cc
I keep meaning to order those labels but never get around to it. Maybe next year!
Micaela @MindfulMomma recently posted..How to Get Kids to Eat Healthy & Prevent Childhood Obesity {Giveaway!}
They’re great labels Micaela!
I didn’t see water bottles on the list. Don’t forget to pack some swiggies, hands-free wrist water bottles. Kids are very active at summer camp, and dehydration is even more dangerous in kids than adults. They can also be customized with your child’s name on the band.
Hi Julie, What are Swiggies made from? Are they plastic?
When I was a kid, I loved going to summer camps. I made some of my best friends at them. I like how everything you list has to do with personal hygiene. I know that hygiene goes out the window at these camps. So, these are great tips!
Summer camp activities helps your kid to be more cooperative and organized with fellow kids to be more productive.Kids talents need nurturing, and you can so by letting them join summer camps.
Thanks. I’ve got my shopping list for the sujm
My nephew and niece want to go to summer camp this upcoming summer. It is good to know that it would be smart for them to bring body lotion and chapstick with them. The lotion seems like it would be really nice for them to have if they get sunburnt at the camp.