Packing for summer camp can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your child first time away from home. Knowing what to pack for summer camp is key to making sure they have everything they need to enjoy the experience to the fullest. At LayosCamp, with over 40 years of experience running camps for children and teenagers, we have seen it all: suitcases stuffed with three pairs of trainers but no swimsuit, and backpacks that barely fit a single T-shirt. That is why we have put together this definitive guide to make packing stress-free and straightforward.
Why packing well matters more than you think
It might seem like a minor detail, but a well-packed bag directly affects your child comfort and wellbeing during their stay. An organised suitcase helps them be more independent, find their own things without help, and focus on what really matters: enjoying the activities, making friends, and creating unforgettable memories.
Packing together is also a wonderful opportunity for your child to start taking on responsibility. Get them involved: let them choose a favourite T-shirt, count the socks, and decide which book or game to bring. It is a first step towards the independence that defines the whole camp experience.
The essential checklist: clothing and footwear
Clothing is usually the biggest source of doubt when packing. The first thing you should know is that at many camps, including LayosCamp, children wear a uniform during daily activities. This makes packing much simpler and also builds team spirit while avoiding unnecessary comparisons between kids. You will still need some personal clothes for free time, evenings, and arrival and departure days.
The camp uniform
At LayosCamp, we provide a uniform for all campers, which is handed out at the camp upon payment. The uniform includes three T-shirts, three pairs of trousers, three pairs of socks, and a sweatshirt, everything they need for daily activities. We also offer a daily laundry service, so clothes are always clean and ready. This means you do not need to pack loads of changes: the uniform and laundry service take care of the essentials.
Personal clothing
Since the uniform covers daytime activities and there is daily laundry, the amount of personal clothing you need to pack is much less than you would expect. Your child will still need clothes for free time, evenings, and travel days: two or three short-sleeved T-shirts, a pair of shorts, one pair of tracksuit bottoms for cooler evenings, underwear for each day plus a couple of spares, pyjamas, and a lightweight waterproof jacket (even in summer, an afternoon storm is more common than you would think).
Swimwear and sportswear
If the camp includes swimming, water sports, or beach activities, as is the case with several LayosCamp programmes in Tarifa and Sotogrande, you will need at least two swimsuits (so one can dry while the other is in use), water-friendly flip-flops, a beach or microfibre towel, and a cap or sun hat.
The right footwear
Footwear is crucial. We recommend comfortable, already broken-in trainers (never brand-new shoes at camp), sandals with ankle support for outdoor activities, and the flip-flops mentioned above for showers and the pool. If the camp includes hiking, like the Gredos programmes, lightweight trekking boots are highly recommended.
Toiletries and sun protection
This section is essential and often falls short in the suitcase. Make sure to include shower gel and shampoo in travel-sized bottles, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant (especially for older campers), a hairbrush or comb, and high-factor sunscreen (SPF 50 minimum). Sunscreen is a must, and it is worth bringing a generous bottle as it gets used up quickly with all the outdoor activities.
We also recommend insect repellent, particularly if the camp is in a rural or mountain area. On summer evenings, mosquitoes can be a real nuisance and ruin a good night sleep. A soothing bite relief balm is also a good idea.
Sleeping essentials
Depending on the type of accommodation, needs will vary. At LayosCamp, our facilities are fully equipped, but it is always nice to bring a lightweight sleeping bag or sleep sheet for summer nights, a small pillow if your child has a preference for their own, and a small torch or head torch, incredibly useful for night activities and games after dark.
Documents and must-haves
Before closing the suitcase, double-check that you have all the necessary paperwork. This includes a health insurance card, a completed medical form detailing allergies, regular medication, and any relevant information, and a photocopy of the child ID. If your child takes specific medication, it must be clearly labelled with their name, dosage, and schedule. At LayosCamp, our medical team handles medication administration, but we need all the details in writing.
What NOT to pack for summer camp
Knowing what to leave at home is just as important as knowing what to bring. Our advice, based on decades of experience, is clear.
Avoid packing electronic devices such as tablets, portable consoles, or mobile phones. At LayosCamp, we encourage digital disconnection as part of the educational experience: children learn to socialise, to be creatively bored, and to enjoy the present moment without screens. If you need to get in touch with your child, our team facilitates the necessary communication channels.
We also advise against jewellery, valuables, or large amounts of cash. A small amount of pocket money for the tuck shop or an outing is enough. And of course, leave at home any clothing you do not want stained or damaged, camp means mud, grass, paint, and limitless fun.
Extra tips for organising the suitcase
After more than 40 years welcoming thousands of children every summer, we at LayosCamp have picked up some tricks that make life much easier for both parents and camp leaders.
Label everything. It sounds obvious, but the amount of unnamed clothing that piles up at the end of each session is staggering. A permanent marker on the inside label or iron-on name stickers will do the job.
Use a suitcase with wheels. It is far more practical than a sports bag, especially for younger children. Being able to move their own suitcase is another step towards independence.
Make a visual checklist. Prepare it together with your child and print or draw it out. That way, at the end of camp, they can check everything off themselves before coming home.
Do not fill the suitcase to the brim. Leave some space for crafts, gifts, or souvenirs your child will want to bring back. They always come home with some kind of treasure.
Include a bag for dirty laundry. A simple bin liner or fabric bag works perfectly for separating clean clothes from worn ones.
Quick checklist
To make things easier, here is a summary of everything you need. We recommend going through it with your child before the big day:
Uniform (provided at camp upon payment): 3 T-shirts, 3 pairs of trousers, 3 pairs of socks, 1 sweatshirt. Daily laundry service included.
Personal clothing: 2-3 T-shirts for free time, 1-2 pairs of shorts, 1 pair of tracksuit bottoms, underwear for each day +2 extra, 1 pyjamas, 1 waterproof jacket, 2 swimsuits.
Footwear: trainers, sandals with ankle support, flip-flops.
Toiletries: shower gel, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb, SPF50+ sunscreen, insect repellent.
Extras: large and small towel, cap, sunglasses, torch, reusable water bottle, small backpack for day trips.
Documents: health insurance card, medical form, ID photocopy, labelled medication if applicable.
Frequently asked questions about packing for summer camp
How much clothing should I pack for summer camp?
It depends on the length of the session and whether the camp provides a uniform. At LayosCamp, since children wear a uniform during activities and we offer daily laundry, the amount of personal clothing is much less than you would imagine: 2-3 T-shirts for free time, a couple of pairs of shorts, and plenty of underwear will do. The suitcase ends up much lighter than you would expect.
Can my child bring their mobile phone to camp?
At LayosCamp, we recommend that children do not bring their phones. Digital disconnection is a core part of the experience and helps them integrate with the group much more quickly. Our team facilitates parent-child communication whenever needed, so you can rest assured.
What type of footwear is best?
The most important thing is that it is comfortable and already worn in. Trainers your child has already broken in are the best option for everyday use. For water activities, flip-flops with a good sole, and for mountain hikes, lightweight trekking boots. Avoid brand-new shoes: blisters can ruin the fun.
Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
It depends on the camp. At LayosCamp facilities, sheets and blankets are provided, but many children prefer their own sleeping bag or sleep sheet. It is a matter of personal comfort. Check the specific guidelines for each camp before packing.
Can I send packages or letters to my child during camp?
Absolutely. In fact, receiving a letter is one of the most exciting moments for children at camp. We recommend sending it in advance so it arrives during their stay. However, please avoid sending food or sweets, as these can create inequalities among campers and cause issues with allergies.
Ready to start packing? At LayosCamp, we have been creating the best summer memories for thousands of families since 1985. Discover our camps in Toledo, Gredos, Tarifa, Sotogrande, and Santander, and book your child place this summer. Spots fill up fast!