Camp New Heights Packing List: Everything Your Camper Needs for a Successful Summer

One of the most common questions we receive from parents is simple:

"What should my child pack for camp?"

Whether your camper is joining us for two, four, or six weeks, packing doesn't have to be stressful. At Camp New Heights, days are filled with sports, fitness activities, swimming, beach trips, elective classes, excursions, and plenty of opportunities to make lifelong friends. The right packing strategy helps campers stay comfortable, organized, and focused on having an incredible summer.

Pack for Activity, Not Fashion

Camp is an active environment. Your camper will participate in strength and conditioning sessions, sports, swimming, beach activities, and excursions throughout their stay.

That means comfort should be the priority.

Send clothing that can get dirty, sweaty, sandy, and washed repeatedly. Leave expensive or sentimental items at home. Campers quickly discover that confidence comes from participation and friendships, not from having the latest trends. It's not to say that campers can't have cool stuff for the evenings, but understand that the opportunities to wear it might be minimal.

It doesn't hurt to label items as kids many times borrow or leave their stuff scattered throughout the room. This may be the most important packing tip on the entire list.

Water bottles, towels, sweatshirts, shoes, toiletries, backpacks, and every article of clothing should be labeled with your camper's name. A simple permanent marker or clothing label can dramatically increase the chances that misplaced items find their way back to their owner.

Essential Clothing

Your camper should arrive with plenty of:

• Athletic shorts

• T-shirts

• Underwear and socks

• Comfortable athletic shoes

• Swimsuits

• Pajamas

• Sweatshirt or light jacket for cooler mornings/evenings (The first two weeks of camp can be a little chilly in the morning)

• Hat for sun protection (Afternoon UV index can be quite high)

  
  

Remember that campers are active throughout the day and often change clothes after workouts, swimming, or beach activities.

Beach and Pool Must-Haves

Being located just steps from the beach is one of the many advantages of Camp New Heights.

Don't forget:

• Swimsuits

• Beach towel

• Sunscreen

• Sunglasses

• Flip-flops or sandals

• Reusable water bottle

  
  

Santa Barbara weather is beautiful, but the California sun can be intense. Sunscreen and hydration are daily necessities.

Toiletries and Personal Items

Pack a simple toiletry kit that includes:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Shampoo and conditioner

• Body wash or soap

• Deodorant

• Hairbrush or comb

• Any other daily hygiene items

  
  

Keeping toiletries organized in a small shower caddy or zippered bag can make dorm living much easier.

Water Bottle

This is so important it deserves its own section. Campers will be working out, walking, recreating, etc... all day long. They will get thirsty! Most facilities frown upon you sticking your mouth onto a faucet, so it's paramount that you have a drinking device commonly referred to as a water bottle. Despite this item appearing on the packing list for all ten years of camp, it is one of the most forgotten items left at home. Pack it first or pack two of them, the water bottle is paramount for a successful summer. Prioritize the water bottle and don't forget it.

Bedding and Dorm Essentials

Campers live in comfortable UCSB dormitories, so be sure to bring:

• Twin XL sheets

• Pillow and pillowcase

• Blanket or comforter

• Laundry bag or hamper

  
  

Many campers also appreciate having a small fan, alarm clock, or favorite book during downtime.

Medications

If your camper takes medication, be sure to log all instructions into Campdocs health profile prior to arrival. Medications should arrive in their original containers and be disclosed during the registration process.

What NOT to Bring

While we want campers to feel at home, there are some items that are better left behind:

• Expensive jewelry

• Large amounts of cash

• Irreplaceable personal items

• Valuable electronics not approved by camp

• Anything that could distract from the camp experience

If you're looking for an approved mp3 player that can be used during downtime, this player fits those needs.

MP3 Player

The best camp memories come from experiences, friendships, and personal growth, not from what's packed in a suitcase.

A Final Packing Tip

Have your camper help pack.

When campers know where their clothes, toiletries, and gear are located, they become more independent and confident once they arrive. It also helps them remember what belongs to them and makes unpacking at the end of camp much easier. Being part of this process also helps them mentally prepare for the adventure they are about to go on.

At Camp New Heights, we strive to create an environment where campers can focus on building healthy habits, developing confidence, trying new activities, and having fun. A well packed suitcase is simply the first step toward an unforgettable summer.

We can't wait to see you this summer!