Summer camp can be a lot of fun, especially if you are prepared!
Steps
1
Check with the camp to see if it publishes a checklist or a list of recommendations of things you should bring. If they do, follow it precisely. You may not realize the importance of certain things until you actually need them.
2
Get the essentials: sunscreen, a hat (or some kind of covering for your head), comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes (depending on the camp, maybe athletic shoes, maybe hiking boots; use logic) toiletries (everything you use for hygiene; toothbrush, hairbrush, shampoo).
3
If you are sleeping in a tent or cabin, you will need bedding. A sleeping bag is great, but if you don't have one, a couple of thick blankets will be fine. Always expect that it will be cold at night.
4
Even if you do not normally wear pajamas, you will want something to sleep in at night. You will not want to wear stinky old jeans you have just been crawling around in the mud in. It would also be inappropriate to sleep in your underwear in a group setting.
5
Learn a little about the natural fauna of the area. Do you need mosquito repellent? Should you be on the lookout for ticks?
6
If you are going to be doing physical activities at camp (hiking, swimming, etc) make sure you are in shape before hand. Walk daily around your neighborhood. Swim at a community pool.
7
As you are packing, throw stationery and several self-addressed stamped envelopes into your pack. This will allow you to write home often and easily.
8
Pack a disposable camera.
9
Do not pack any valuables.
10
If you wear glasses, pack a sturdy case to keep them in.
11
If you take any medications regularly (even an occasional antihistamine) your parents will need to supply this medicine along with a note. They should check this in with the camp nurse on the first day.
12
Ladies, pack a few feminine hygiene items, such as tampons, even if you do not plan to start your period while you are away. It would be a bad thing to be out in the mountains without any such items if you need them.
13
When you are packing, think hard about the minimum you need to be comfortable. Wearing makeup everyday is generally not considered practical (you may not get a chance to wash it off properly and then you will break out) You may feel you cannot live without your iPod, but if it gets lost or damaged, you'll wish you left it at home.
14
When you get to camp, smile and introduce yourself to everyone you see. Making friends at camp is actually easier than in a normal setting because almost everyone there is a fresh face. Very few people will know anyone else, so cliques are almost nonexistent. Almost everyone will be nervous and excited and eager to make friends. It's also a unique opportunity to be whoever you want to be. Even if you weren't a very cool kid at school, you can be the coolest kid at camp as long as you are nice and try to have a great time.
15
Be a team player. Arrive early to set yourself up and you can help other campers set up as they arrive. This is a great way to introduce yourself and make friends. The entire time you are at camp, volunteer to help anytime you can. Approach every project with enthusiasm and you will have a blast!
