Whether it’s their first time or they’re seasoned campers, having the right things packed makes all the difference. It helps your child feel confident and prepared, and it gives you peace of mind knowing they’ll be comfortable throughout the day.
To save you the guesswork, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist of what to pack in a child’s day camp backpack, along with some helpful tips to keep things stress-free and organised.
These are the items your child will likely need every single day, no matter what type of camp they’re attending.
Refillable Water Bottle
Hydration is key, especially on active or warm days. Choose a bottle that's easy to open and won’t leak in the bag.
Packed Lunch + Healthy Snacks
Include a balanced lunch and at least one snack. Camps are full of energy-burning activities!
Top tip: Add a ice pack to keep things fresh!
Read our blog on Healthy Packed Lunch Ideas for more inspiration!
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
- Light raincoat (for outdoor play even in light showers)
- Sun hat (for summer) or warm hat and gloves (for cooler camps)
- A jumper or hoodie for layering
- Spare socks — because muddy puddles happen!
Sun Cream
Pre-apply before camp, and pack a labelled bottle in their bag so they can top up throughout the day.
Proper Footwear
Make sure your child wears:
- Closed-toe shoes or trainers
- A clean pair of non-marking indoor shoes (if applicable)
Avoid sandals or flip-flops unless it’s part of water play and specifically requested.
Optional Extras
- Book or puzzle for quiet time
- Swimming gear if the camp includes water activities (towel, swimsuit, goggles, plastic bag for wet clothes)
Packing Tips for Parents
- Label everything! From clothes to bottles, labelling saves time and avoids lost property
- Use a lightweight backpack with two straps - easier for kids to carry on their own
- Don’t overpack. Keep it simple. Think: “Would they actually use this in a single day?”
- Talk them through it. Show your child what’s inside and explain when to use things - especially spare clothes and snacks
What not to pack for a holiday camp?
- A phone/tablet - these can distract from activities and time with friends
- Irreplaceable/sentimental/valuable items as they could get lost or damaged
- Nuts and nut products – incase of serious nut allergies
- Toys/ games/ other gadgets - they can cause distractions and also may get broken or lost
- Money, unless you camp has stated otherwise. There is usually nothing to buy, and it could easily go missing
What should your child wear to camp?
- Many day camps have no uniform; clothing should be comfortable and appropriate for a variety of activities (including sports). You should pack for the season but also remember the weather can change!
Need more tips on getting ready for day camp? Or want to explore the kinds of fun your child could be having during school holidays? Check out our FAQs and our other parent-friendly blog posts such as encouraging your child to read during the holidays and browse our activity camp locations!