25 Things You’ll Wish You Packed for Church Camp
I’ll be honest—my first church camp? I thought I packed smart.
Turns out, I forgot everything I actually needed.
Sure, I had snacks and a cute hoodie, but I didn’t think about the flashlight or the flip-flops for the shower.
That’s why I’m writing this.
Whether you’re heading off for the first time or helping your kid get ready, this list will save you from the “Why didn’t I bring that?!” moment.
From practical stuff to comfort must-haves, here are 25 things you’ll seriously wish you had packed once camp starts rolling.
1. A Bible You’ll Actually Use
Not a heavy one with tiny text.
Bring the one that’s familiar—something you can flip through fast during morning devotionals or group prayer.
If it’s got your notes and highlights, even better.
2. Notebook and Pen
Camp is filled with thoughts and moments you’ll want to remember.
Whether it’s a verse that hits home or a message from a counselor, writing it down helps it stick.
Plus, journaling by the lake? Kind of the dream.
3. A Flashlight (Not Just Your Phone)
You’ll regret relying on your phone battery when the cabin lights are out and you need to pee at 2 AM.
Bring a small flashlight or headlamp.
It’s a camp essential—trust me.
4. Comfortable Shoes That Can Get Dirty
Your clean white sneakers? Leave them home.
Bring shoes you can hike in, run in, or accidentally step in mud with and not cry.
Bonus if they’re waterproof.
5. Flip-Flops for the Shower
You don’t want to know what lives on those camp shower floors.
Flip-flops = hygiene and peace of mind.
They dry fast and take up zero space in your bag.
6. A Reusable Water Bottle
You’ll be outside in the heat all day.
You don’t want to be the person who forgot to hydrate.
Insulated bottles keep your drink cold and help you avoid waste.
7. Bug Spray That Actually Works
Mosquitoes love campsites almost as much as campers do.
Pack a spray with DEET or essential oils—whatever works for you.
Otherwise, you’ll be scratching all week.
8. Sunscreen (And Don’t Forget to Reapply)
Even if you “don’t burn,” you probably will.
Bring a lotion or spray you won’t mind using every few hours.
Trust me—nothing ruins camp like a bad sunburn.
9. Extra Towels (At Least Two)
You’ll want one for showers and one for the lake or pool.
And maybe one for sitting on during group time outside.
Camp towels don’t dry fast, so having backups is smart.
10. Snacks You Won’t Regret Later
Granola bars, trail mix, maybe even a few fruit snacks.
Something that doesn’t melt and doesn’t need refrigeration.
You’ll thank yourself when you get hungry between meals.
11. Layers—Because Camp Weather is Weird
Even if it’s summer, nights can be freezing.
Pack a hoodie, a flannel, maybe even a pair of fuzzy socks.
Mornings and evenings feel different out in nature.
12. A Cozy Blanket or Sleeping Bag
Yes, camp provides bedding, but nothing beats something from home.
A soft blanket makes quiet time feel comforting.
Even better if it smells like your room.
13. A Laundry Bag (You’ll Need It)
Camp clothes get dirty fast.
Having a separate bag makes it easy to keep the clean and the sweaty apart.
Bonus: toss it all into the wash when you get home.
14. A Modest Swimsuit That Stays Put
Let’s be real—church camp has rules.
Choose something you can swim, canoe, or run around in without adjusting every two minutes.
It’ll save you the stress.
15. Bible Highlighters or Gel Pens
They don’t bleed through, and they make your Bible feel more personal.
Color-coding verses during quiet time becomes a little ritual.
You’ll be surprised how relaxing it is.
16. A Watch That’s Not Your Phone
You might not be allowed to have your phone.
And even if you are, it’s good to disconnect.
A simple watch keeps you on schedule without distractions.
17. Rain Gear—Because It Will Rain
Pack a lightweight poncho or rain jacket.
You’ll still have outdoor activities, even if it’s wet.
Staying dry = staying happy.
18. A Small Backpack or Day Bag
You won’t carry your suitcase around all day.
A simple backpack holds your water, Bible, notebook, and snacks.
It’s the difference between organized and a hot mess.
19. Something That Reminds You of Home
It could be a photo, a favorite t-shirt, or even a pillowcase.
Having a small comfort item makes homesickness easier.
Don’t underestimate the power of something familiar.
20. An Extra Pair of Everything
Socks? Underwear? T-shirts? Double up.
You’ll probably sweat through, fall in the lake, or get caught in a water balloon ambush.
Having backups is a lifesaver.
21. A Travel-Sized First Aid Kit
Camp has one, but it’s good to have basics: band-aids, antiseptic, allergy meds.
Blisters and bug bites are almost guaranteed.
Being prepared makes life easier.
22. Deodorant (You’ll Regret Forgetting This One)
It’s camp. It’s hot. You’re active. Enough said.
Even if you usually don’t sweat—pack it.
And maybe reapply at lunch.
23. Scripture Cards or Encouraging Notes
Sometimes the day hits hard and you need a quick boost.
Tuck in a few verses or write yourself encouraging notes before you go.
You’ll be glad you did.
24. A Camera That’s Not Your Phone
If you want to capture memories without the distractions of apps, bring a disposable or instant camera.
You’ll end up with printed photos and less screen time.
It’s worth the extra few bucks.
25. An Open Heart
Okay, it’s not something you can pack in a bag—but it matters most.
Camp brings surprises, challenges, and new connections.
Show up ready to learn, listen, laugh, and grow.
Final Thought
Church camp isn’t just about bonfires and bunk beds—it’s about moments that change you.
And being prepared lets you focus on what really matters.
So before you zip that bag shut, double-check this list. Future you will be thankful you did.
