19 Kids’ Camp Essentials For Sleepaway Fun Or Pitching Right In Your Backyard
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Camp, be it the sleep-away or daytime-only variety, is one of those quintessential kid adventures that deserves its own special packing list. Because it’s so much more than just singing songs around the fire or making friendship bracelets and macaroni art. That first taste of independence (and maybe first taste of s’mores) is a big deal. It’s paramount childhood memory-making in the works!
Below, the Domino edit for your little ones—from a Wes Anderson-worthy Morse Code light to the cutest letter correspondence set—that has us wishing we were heading off to camp this summer (but also happy to say goodbye for just a bit to remember what it feels like to not be glued together 24/7 as a family unit). Once you’re reunited, keep the magic going by pitching a tent right in your backyard and breaking out that sky gazer’s guide.
Getting-There Gear
When you’re ready to start packing, reach for this stand-out duffle that’s super durable, weather-resistant, and can be carried by the shoulder strap or as a backpack. Use it with these cheerful, striped packing cubes that will not only keep everything organized in transit, but, thanks to their mesh tops, pull double-duty as aerated laundry storage between washing weeks—er, days.
In-The-Field Observation
Encourage a burgeoning naturalist with these inspiring supplies: a bug jar (made from plant-based plastic) complete with a measuring grid, magnifying-glass lid, and—most importantly—air holes; a pocket-sized journal for recording camp adventures and nature notetaking; and a kid-friendly digital camera that has both a neck lanyard and a wrist strap for safe keeping.
Day Hike Starter Pack
Send them off with a mini backpack that’s ideal for your mini’s daytime adventures—this one is made from water-resistant fabric. It will fit the essentials, like an insulated, stainless steel water bottle with a leak- and shatter-resistant straw cap (available in seven fun colors, to boot); a super-loud titanium emergency whistle; and a non-toxic insect repellent that’s suitable for kids two and up, and can be used on skin, hair, and clothes. Bites, be gone!
Keeping Clean
Stash all of their toiletries in this colorful dopp kit, which is loaded with organizing pockets (including a detachable zipper pouch) and has a built-in hook hanger. Another smart travel hygiene solution? Solid shampoo (read: no in-transit spills or leaks). These concentrated bars are made with plant-based ingredients and help teach a lesson in sustainability—no plastic packaging!
Nocturnal Adventures
Because you know they’ll be staying up after dark, this portable LED lantern (which runs for up to 16 hours on 4 AA batteries) is sure to come in handy. Once the sun goes down, they may even get inspired to learn about outer space with this night-sky guide, or send a few secret messages via a delightfully lo-fi Morse Code flashlight.
