Packing For Camp
Here are some suggested items to pack for your camp session!
First time campers are often not quite sure what they need or should pack for camp. It is a balancing act between not having what you need to be prepared, and bringing too much stuff! There is no end-all, be-all list of what to pack, but this list covers items that should help you think about what your camper might need.
You’ll notice some items are required (closed-toe shoes, reusable water bottle) and some items are prohibited (see the DO NOT BRING section below). In order to make sure your camper is packed adequately please look at our dress code policy.
Luggage
We make no requirements on what type or the amount of luggage you use to pack your camper’s items. Trunks like the one picture have a classic vibe and can make it easy to access belongings, but are by no means necessary. We’ve seen it all: trunks, suitcases, duffel bags, giant Ziplocs, big black trash bags….
On arrival day, we will help you unload and ferry luggage to the correct cabin.
Clothing
Consider the length of the camp session and check the weather forecast. Pack enough clothing and pack appropriate clothing. Campers are going to run around, move, get sweaty, and maybe get dirty. It is nearly always way too hot for jeans/pants! Look at our dress code for more guidelines about clothing.
- Socks
- Underwear
- Shorts
- Shirts
- Pajamas/Sleepwear
- A dressier outfit or two (for a dance, evening activity, or final Eucharist)
- Swimsuit
- Poncho/Rain jacket/Rain gear
- Shoes – at least 2 pair recommended
- Closed-toe shoes: You MUST bring closed-toe shoes that you’re able to run around and play games in. Boots are NOT ideal for this.
- Sandals with a back strap may be worn at appropriate times
- Flip-flops may NOT be worn outside of the cabin
- Boots are not needed
Bedding
The cabin beds are twin-sized. Bedding is not provided by Camp Hardtner
- Fitted sheet & sleeping bag OR sheets & a blanket
- Pillow with pillow case
Toiletries
- Towels (for showering & for swimming)
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen
- Comb/Brush
- Other hygiene products
Useful Items
- Water bottle – you MUST bring a reusable water bottle
- Laundry bag
- Hat/Visor
- Flashlight and batteries
- Bug repellant
- White shirt/s – in case we do tie-dying
- Book/s
- Letter-writing items (pencil/pen, paper, envelopes, stamps)
- Card game for cabin time
- Musical instruments (maybe there will be a talent show!)
- Diary/Journal
- Disposable camera/s
- Plastic bags – for wet items at end of camp
DO NOT BRING any of the following items to camp:
- Electronics – especially, but not limited to phones, tablets, and computers
- Anything that can connect to the Internet
- Food/Snacks/Candy
- Expensive clothing, jewelry, or other items (it’s camp and accidents happen)
- Firearms, knives, or other weapons
- Fireworks
- Lighters/matches
- Tobacco products, alcohol, vape related products, and illegal drugs
- Money — unless you want to buy some sweet camp gear on arrival or departure day
Lost & Found
Pro Tip: write your camper’s name in Sharpie on their items. We do our best to make sure your camper comes home with everything they bring to camp, and this can help immensely! That said, Camp Hardtner is not responsible for your camper’s items. Anything left behind will be kept for 2 weeks after your camper’s session. Should you contact us about lost and found items within that timeframe, we can arrange to return those items to you at your cost. After that timeframe items will be donated or disposed.
