June 06, 2025
What to Pack for a Sports Camp: A Comprehensive Guide
How to Pack for Camp: General Tips
Sports camp is a blast. Packing for sports camp? Okay, that part’s not quite as fun.
Fortunately, there are ways to make your child’s packing process relatively stress-free and ensure they have everything they need for an awesome time at camp.
Before we get to the list, here are a few general tips for a smooth packing experience:
Try out gear well in advance. Whether it’s cleats, swimming suits, a tennis racket, or something else, your young athlete’s gear is one of the most important items they’ll bring to camp. Be sure to have them try it on and/or test it out well in advance of your camp session. Particularly if their sport isn’t in season, those cleats may end up being a little small…not something you want to realize the night before camp starts!
Label everything. Campers often have items that are very similar, or even identical, to other campers’ belongings. Labeling their clothing, shoes, and gear helps avoid mix-ups. We partner with Label Daddy to create personalized labels for campers to make this process easier.
Travel light. It’s important to make sure your camper has everything they need. But don’t go overboard—and don’t let your camper go overboard, either! If your young athlete is an overzealous packer, work with them to decide which items will be essential for their time at camp, and which can stay at home. They should get their workout on the field, not lugging their duffel around.
Count down to camp together. Older campers may be doing most of their own packing, while younger campers will need significant help. Either way, you can use a daily “countdown to camp” to build excitement and help keep their contributions to the packing process (and yours!) on track.
Make a list, check it twice. We’ve provided a handy starter list below. Check things off as you go so your camper doesn’t forget any must-haves. Remember to add any items unique to your young athlete’s sport or their particular needs!
Sports Camp Packing List
This list includes items for sleepaway camp and day camp. Keep in mind that not everything will apply to every camper. The list is broken up into sections for easy reference as you’re pulling items together.
Remember: the exact clothing, gear, and other items your camper needs will change depending on your sport, season, and camp location. Be sure to cross-check your camp-specific information and packing instructions. For US Sports Camps, head to the pre-camp checklist page for instructions on finding details for your camp.
Sports Gear
Sport-specific equipment
Water bottle
Bag for gear
Swimming suit
Goggles
Clothing & Linens
Sport-appropriate clothing
Casual clothing for off-the-field
Warm layers
Underwear and socks
Hat
Pajamas
Tennis shoes
Dirty clothes bag
Wash cloth and bath towel
Pillow and pillowcase
Linens or sleeping bag
Bathroom
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Shampoo
Soap
Flip-flops
Shower caddy
Personal Care
Sunblock
Insect repellent
Feminine hygiene products
Hand sanitizer
Earplugs for light sleepers
Fan, if desired
Miscellaneous
Book
Deck of cards
Extra snacks
Other Items
Add anything specific to your camp here!