What to pack for a US summer camp - the complete Kiwi guide

So you're going to a summer camp in America. Flights booked, visa sorted, countdown on the fridge.

Now comes the question every first-time counsellor eventually asks at 11pm the night before they leave:

What on earth do I actually pack?

Packing for a US summer camp is different to packing for a holiday. You're not heading to a resort. You're going to live and work outdoors for eight to ten weeks, in conditions that can range from warm and sunny to genuinely hot and humid, with limited access to shops and laundry that runs on a schedule you don't control.

Here's everything you need - and a few things you definitely don't.

The basics - clothing

Think practical, durable, and quick-drying. Camp is not a fashion show.

- You'll want around ten to twelve t-shirts. They will get dirty, sweaty, and occasionally covered in paint, mud, or whatever craft activity went sideways that afternoon. Don't bring anything you'd be upset to ruin.

- Shorts are your friend. Bring six to eight pairs. Lightweight, comfortable, and nothing that needs ironing.

- A few pairs of long trousers or leggings for cooler evenings or bug-heavy areas. Mosquitoes at certain camps are not a small problem.

- A lightweight rain jacket. US summers can include sudden downpours and outdoor activities don't always stop for weather.

- A warm layer. Evenings around the campfire can get cool even in July. One good fleece or hoodie is enough.

- Swimwear. Most camps have a waterfront or pool. Bring two or three sets so you're never stuck in a wet costume.

- Comfortable, broken-in trainers. This is the most important item on this list. Do not arrive with new shoes. You will be on your feet all day and blisters in week one will make everything harder.

- A pair of sandals or jandals for around the cabin.

- One slightly smarter outfit for any camp events, talent nights, or end-of-summer celebrations. Nothing fancy - just something that isn't a stained t-shirt.

Toiletries and health

American supermarkets stock most things but prices can be higher than you're used to and you won't always have easy access to shops. Bring enough to last the full season.

- Sunscreen - and bring more than you think you need. You will be outside every day. SPF 50 minimum.

- Insect repellent. DEET-based is most effective. This is not optional at most camps.

- Any prescription medication you take, with enough supply for the full season plus extra. Bring a copy of your prescription.

- A basic first aid kit - plasters, blister pads, pain relief, antihistamines, cold and flu tablets. Camp will have a health centre but having your own basics saves time.

- Lip balm with SPF. Chronically underrated. You'll thank us in week three.

Gear and equipment

- A good water bottle. Hydration at camp is serious. A large, durable bottle you can clip to a bag is ideal.

- A daypack or small backpack for carrying your gear between activities.

- A head torch. Power cuts happen. Cabins get dark. Night activities are a thing. Always have one.

- A padlock for your personal storage.

- A power board or multi-plug adapter. US power sockets use Type A plugs - two flat parallel pins. New Zealand plugs won't work without an adapter.

- A portable charger for your phone.

- Enough cash in USD to get you through the first week before you sort out a local bank card. Most camps are cashless in terms of daily life but you'll want some on hand for travel days.

Things people always overpack

- Formal clothing. You won't need it.

- Multiple pairs of dress shoes. One pair of clean trainers is enough.

- Excessive toiletries. You can buy most things at a local Walmart or Target on your first day off.

- Half your wardrobe. Seriously. Camp laundry exists. You don't need thirty t-shirts.

- Expensive jewellery or valuables. Leave them at home.

The Kiwi extras

- A few things from home that travel well and make surprisingly good gifts or conversation starters:

- A small supply of Kiwi snacks - Whittaker's chocolate, tim tams, or similar. You will make instant friends at the counsellor table.

- A New Zealand flag patch or pin for your backpack. Camp culture loves national pride and you'll be asked about New Zealand constantly.

- A photo of home. It sounds old-fashioned but a small physical reminder of the people you're doing this for goes a long way in week six when you're tired and a bit homesick.

One last thing

Pack light enough that you have room to bring things back. You will accumulate camp t-shirts, gifts from kids, and memories that take up space in ways you didn't anticipate.

Leave a third of your bag empty. You'll fill it.

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Americamp NZ is operated by International Working Holidays, Auckland-based and Kiwi-focused. We're the NZ arm of Americamp - backed by over 24 years of placing New Zealanders at summer camps across the USA. The application is free to start and our NZ team is with you every step of the way.

Apply Today - www.americamp.co.nz

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