Top 12 Essentials for Camp!

The summer months are upon us, which means it’s time for Girl Scout camp! Fun-filled days and evenings of hiking, swimming, exploring, and laughing with your fellow Girl Scouts aren’t far! While you excitedly wait for the time to come to pack your bags, check out our list of things you don’t want to forget! Don’t leave for camp without these 12 items:

  1. Bandana

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Every Girl Scout knows that bandanas have a ton of helpful ways to use them! Pull back your hair, dampen it with water to cool down your neck, protect your face from dust, and more! What’s a unique way you use bandanas?

  1. Sunscreen

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Nothing puts a damper on your time at camp like a sunburn! Skip the aloe and make sure to pack sunscreen for your face and body. If you’re planning on doing any water sports, make sure to reapply!

  1. Bedding

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Make it cozy! Don’t forget to grab your sleeping bag, pillow, and an extra pillowcase, and get ready to snooze soundly all night.

  1. Sturdy Shoes

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Flip flops are great for the beach, but they definitely won’t be helpful on a hiking trip! Pack a pair of sneakers or sturdy hiking boots, and make sure to bring some extra socks.

  1. Deck of Cards

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While you’re hanging out with friends or passing the time until lights out, you might want a quick activity to keep you busy. Bring a deck of cards, mad libs, book, journal, etc. for extra fun!

  1. Bug repellent

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Stop the itch before it starts! While you’re out exploring the outdoors, make sure you protect your skin from any bites with bug repellent.

  1. Backpack

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You’ll probably want to bring a backpack to carry around your sunscreen, water bottle, or a towel while you’re out and about. Save a trip back to your tent or cabin by bringing a lightweight day bag!

  1. Water Bottle

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Bring a lightweight reusable water bottle to stay healthy and hydrated all camp long.

  • Pro tip: use your bandana to tie your water bottle through your belt loop or backpack to hike hands-free!
  1. Toiletries

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Don’t forget the necessities! Pack a go-bag with your toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shampoo, soap, lip balm, and a towel to make your trips to the shower a breeze.

  1. Bathing Suit

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If you’re going to be swimming at camp, don’t leave behind your bathing suit! Swimming and water sports are ultra-refreshing after a long hike – you won’t want to miss out!

  1. Flashlight (with extra batteries)

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Whether it’s for reading at night or walks back to the cabin, it’s a good idea to pack a flashlight with extra batteries.

  • Pro tip: If a flashlight can stand on its own, placing a water bottle on top of it will turn it into a lantern!
  1. Camera

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Remember all of the new friends and memories you made at camp by bringing a camera! Disposables are a great portable option, and getting those developed photos back will be a fun surprise for every girl.

Get ready to unplug for the weekend and revel in the beauty of the outdoors. Pick up some new skills, make a friend, and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Check out our Program Catalog for exciting opportunities! Have the best time at camp and don’t forget to send your photos to media@girlscoutsccc.org!