Packing well sets your child up for a smoother, more enjoyable camp experience. The right gear keeps them warm, dry, and comfortable, and helps them feel more confident managing on their own.
Most schools provide a gear list tailored to the camp’s location and planned activities. This page offers general advice to help you and your child get packed and organised, along with tips to keep things simple and stress-free.
Let Your Child Help Pack
Encourage your child to be involved in the packing process. When they know what’s in their bag and what it looks like, they’re far more likely to take care of their things at camp.
It also helps them:
- Recognise and identify their own gear
- Avoid leaving items behind or losing things they didn’t realise they brought
- Build independence and confidence about being away from home
Teachers often end up holding up unnamed jumpers (even though EVERYTHING should be named) or pink bags no one claims, simply because the child didn’t help pack and doesn’t realise it’s theirs. A little involvement at home goes a long way at camp.
Follow the School’s Gear List
The gear list from your child’s school should always be your starting point. It’s based on the specific camp location, season, and planned activities, so it includes exactly what your child will need.
Why It Matters
- Some camps require special items, like closed-toe shoes for bushwalking or togs for water activities
- Weather conditions vary, and layers may be more important at some camps than others
- Some camps are fully catered, while others ask students to bring cutlery or plates
Check for Extras
- Does your child need to bring morning tea or lunch on the first day?
- Will they need a backpack for day hikes or activity rotations?
- Is there anything they’ll need for a specific activity (e.g. costume for a talent night)?
If You’re Unsure
If anything on the list is unclear, it’s best to check in with your child’s teacher. They’ll be happy to explain what’s needed and can offer suggestions if you’re having trouble finding an item.
Essential Items to Pack
While every camp is different, there are some common items your child is likely to need. Use this list alongside the one provided by the school to make sure nothing important is missed.
Clothing
- T-shirts and long-sleeve tops
- Shorts and long pants
- Warm layers (jersey or fleece)
- Waterproof raincoat
- Extra underwear and socks
- Sunhat and beanie (depending on the season)
- Swimwear if required
Pack enough for the number of days plus a few extras in case of wet or muddy clothes.
Footwear
- Closed-toe shoes for outdoor activities
- Old shoes or sandals for wet or messy activities
- Comfortable footwear for around camp
Sleepwear and Bedding
- Pyjamas or warm sleepwear
- Sleeping bag (and pillow if not supplied)
- Fitted sheet if required by the camp
Toiletries and Personal Items
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Soap or body wash
- Hairbrush or comb
- Deodorant (if age appropriate)
- Towel (sometimes two – one for showering, one for swimming)
Home Baking for Camp
Many schools ask families to send a small amount of home baking for camp, such as muffins, biscuits, or a slice. It’s a simple way to contribute to shared morning or afternoon teas, especially when camps rely on parent helpers or limited kitchen resources. It also helps keep overall camp costs down by reducing the need to purchase extra snacks.
To make it easy for schools to manage:
- No nuts — most schools now follow a nut-free rule to keep students safe
- Pack baking in an ice cream container or similar that doesn’t need to be returned
- Label the container with the type of baking and note if it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, or egg-free
- Choose something that travels well and doesn’t require refrigeration
If you’re unable to provide baking, just let your child’s teacher know. Schools understand not everyone can contribute, and it won’t affect your child’s time at camp.
Other Useful Items
Alongside clothing and toiletries, a few practical extras can make camp more comfortable. A torch or headlamp, water bottle, sunblock, and insect repellent are all useful. Pack a plastic bag for dirty gear and a small backpack for daily activities. These small items help your child stay prepared and organised while they’re away.
Things Not to Pack
To keep camp safe, simple, and enjoyable for everyone, most schools ask students to leave certain items at home. If you’re unsure about anything, check with your child’s teacher before including it.
Common Items to Leave at Home
- Electronic devices such as phones, tablets, or handheld games (unless specifically allowed)
- Snacks, lollies, or fizzy drinks unless the school has given permission
- Valuables like jewellery, expensive clothing, or accessories
- Pocket knives or tools — even if they seem practical, they’re usually not permitted
- Aerosol cans (including deodorant), which may not be allowed due to allergies or fire risk
Leaving these items at home helps avoid distractions, prevent lost property, and keep the camp environment safe and focused.
Cutlery and Tableware (If Required)
Some camps ask students to bring their own plate, cup, and cutlery. This isn’t always required, so it’s important to check the school’s gear list or confirm with the teacher beforehand.
What to Include
- Plate
- Bowl (if needed for breakfast or dessert)
- Cup or mug
- Knife, fork, and spoon
- Tea towel or cloth for drying
How to Keep It Organised
- Use a named zip-lock bag, snap-lock container, or soft pouch
- Choose lightweight, non-breakable items
- Practise packing and cleaning at home so your child feels confident managing it themselves
Sending the right items and making sure your child knows how to look after them helps camp mealtimes run smoothly.
Packing Tips for Parents
Packing for camp doesn’t need to be stressful. A bit of preparation and a few simple strategies can make things easier for you and your child — and reduce the chance of forgotten gear or missing items.
Keep It Simple
- Stick to what’s on the gear list
- Avoid overpacking — your child will need to carry or manage their own bag
- Choose practical clothing and items that are easy to replace if lost
Stay Organised
- Use packing cubes or large zip-lock bags to separate clothes, toiletries, and extras
- Label everything clearly, including shoes, drink bottles, and sleeping bags
- Do a practice pack before camp to make sure it all fits and your child can carry it
A well-packed bag helps your child feel more confident and makes it easier for them to stay organised while they’re away.
With the bag packed and everything labelled, you’re nearly there. The next step is knowing how your child’s health and safety will be looked after while they’re away. Find out how schools manage medical needs, emergencies, and overall wellbeing at camp:
