What to pack for Camp America...
I'm hoping to go to a camp next year, and ive been waiting to apply for a while now... but its struck me that if i do get the chance to go, i dnt want to overpack and of course i'm bound to do 'a bit' of shopping. so what do and dont i need?
i know that there will suggestions somewhere, but im struggling to find anything at this present moment.
i've been browsing through camp articles bout saving so got a good idea bout that, and also the backpack vs suitcase, but the one thing i havent come across (yet) is what you should take.
As a basic idea so that i know what i absolutely, really need to pack before i leave and what i can pick up while im over there? Oh and also I need suggestions on how to pack, im at uni and have a pretty good idea, but was wandering if anyone has any sneaky little tips. Like i've heard that rolling your clothes up is better than folding...
Thanks to anyone that can help me...
chaz
I'm off to camp next year for the first time and as I haven't been before my best suggestion would be to just take the basics. I mean really what do u need? Anything u forget u can always buy over there. U'll definitely need clothes for all seasons just as a precaution, toiletries etc. And in regards to packing ur pack, the less air the better! the more air u have in ur pack (for example if u were stuffing clothes or a sleeping bag in there) its important to get all the air bubbles out.
I would suggest the right clothing - no formal ballgowns or suits required! If you are going to a Jewish Camp you should take white or blue clothes for Friday nights - check with your camp. Suggestions from returned counsellors include; Sleeping bag. Condoms. Towel. Medications you require while away. Sunscreen. Documents (international drivers licence, ID cards etc). Photocopies of your passport, and visa. Money!
Once accepted onto Camp America you have access to lots of information and answers to some of the most common FAQs so don't panic just yet.
Also if you forget anything too go to Target or Walmart both are great for bargain hunting 😀 You can get all sorts of things there for so cheap. Keep this in mind first-timers!! Your camp will most likely do a staff trip to Walmart during training, you'll be able to buy things then that you didn't wanna carry in your luggage, or maybe things you just forgot lol
I found the following invaluable ...
- Hat (baseball cap)
- Good supply of loose fitting T shirts and shorts (sensible ones)
- Sandals
- A LOT of sunscreen
- Bug spray (depends where you are)
- Water bottle (1.5 litre coke bottle with a Pump/H2Go cap on it works good)
- Backpack
- Swimming gear and two towels
If your going to take any type of food that isn't normally sold in the USA, then I suggest you be careful, infact be careful with any type of food. At camp both years, some international counselors have had their unopened food taken off them. If asked about food in your luggage then you MUST tick yes or say yes. If you don't then your breaking the law. I suggest you post it to yourself at camp, as the kids LOVE to try food that their international counselors have at home
If the US Customs ask you about food then you must answer the question correctly cause US law is very strict (way more strict compared to our laws). I was talking about US Customs at the airport in the above post.
Another thing I recommend is printing photos of home... Now some people say don't as yo can see them on your phone but it makes you feel homesick I took a photo of a couple of my mates who were so supportive and (upon returning) admitted that they were jealous. Friends at home can help you get through the initial homesickness of it all!
This one is also going to sound weird but if you can track down a 'cuddle buddie' pillow thing! Do a google search they will be your best friend!! And it can be your second carry on bit of luggage.
All applicants are sent the required information before you depart. I strongly suggest that each applicant brings a LARGE backpack or suitcase cause everyone will end up bringing home tons of new clothes and lots of souvenir's.