The Fourth of July means fireworks, friends, food and, for many girls, the start of summer camp season. From endless crafts and activities to that outdoorsy feeling to making lifelong bonds, there’s so much to love about camp.
While excitement and anticipation are no doubt running high, preparing for days, weeks or even a month, away from home can feel overwhelming and stressful. Think of this as your one-stop guide to everything you need to prepare for your bunk days, from packing to nerves to making besties. Read on for tips…and expect many s’mores in your future.
What to Pack
Easily one of the most daunting tasks, deciding what to throw in your duffle (and what to leave behind) is always tricky. In general, it is best to pack light and practically for camp (and many will send a list). Don’t focus on having all your cutest outfits and your full makeup supply. Not only do these things take up space, but you’re gonna be spending so much time outside, getting dirty, wet and sweaty, that smearing on a full face of concealer, blush, highlighter and eyeliner is going to feel pointless. Bring only the essentials (plus a few extras). Make sure to bring:
- A few comfy and athletic T-shirts and tank tops
- A sweatshirt for chilly nights by the fire
- Several shorts and a few pants
- A just-in-case jacket
- Your fave PJs
- One cute dressy fit if there’s ever a dance or ice cream social
- Sneakers and sandals
- A swimsuit and towel
- Bedding
- Toiletries and minimal makeup (we’re talking mascara, lip gloss, and concealer *max*)
- Sunscreen
- Pads and/or tampons
It also can’t hurt to throw in a few extra things for pure funzies, like a book or magazine (may we suggest our June/July issue of GL?) A rainy afternoon, period cramps or your usual recharge hour might leave you with some phone-less free time, so this will come in handy. A deck of cards, bottles of nail polish or portable games are another great way to create some lasting girlhood memories.
First Day Jitters
The first day of camp is one of the best opportunities to connect with fellow campers…and it’s also one of the scariest parts. Whether you’re worried about making friends, getting lost on the way to arts & crafts or just figuring out where to sit at lunch, everyone feels a little off on day one—even the super confident girls who act like they’ve been coming for years. The secret? Fake it ’til you make it. Flash a smile, ask someone what cabin they’re in and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself when you mess up (because you will…and it’ll be a great story later).
Remember, camp is basically a reset button. Nobody knows your school reputation or that weird thing you did in 7th grade. You get to be you—the fun, weird, creative, loud, quiet, whatever-version of you that shows up. So breathe, put on your cutest-comfy outfit and dive in. Who knows? Your next best friend could be the girl next to you at tie-dye.
Making BFFs
Making friends at camp can feel like stepping into a totally new world—but the good news is, everyone’s looking for someone to hang with. Even the girl who seems like she has her whole squad already is probably itching for a new archery buddy. Start small: compliment someone’s bracelet, ask if they’ve been to camp before or team up during an activity. You don’t have to be super outgoing—just being kind and a little brave goes a long way.
And, don’t stress if you don’t instantly click with a group. Camp friendships can take a minute to bloom, but when they do, they’re kind of magical. You’ll bond over inside jokes (like how you both agree the head of camp is secretly Wonder Woman), late-night talks in the cabin and shared disasters (like spilling fruit punch on your shirt). Just be open, be yourself (as cheesy as it sounds) and trust that your people will find you.
Camp Spirit + New Adventures
Camp is all about leaning into the wild, messy, hilarious adventure of it all. One minute you’re covered in paint from color wars, the next you’re soaring through the trees on a zip line or singing campfire songs way off-key under the stars. The best part? No one cares if you’re perfect—they only care if you’re present. Camp spirit isn’t about being the most put-together, it’s about diving in with your whole heart, even if you’re nervous or unsure.
Say yes to trying new things, even if you’re not sure you’ll love them all. Canoeing, rock climbing, improv games—whatever it is, just go for it. The more you say yes, the more memories you make (and the more stories you’ll have to tell when summer’s over). Camp is your chance to be bold, to laugh till your stomach hurts and to find joy in stuff you’d never try at home. So let loose, get a little muddy and don’t hold back—you’re here for the adventure, after all.
Share your fave summer camp memories with us on Insta @girlslifemag!
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Top image: @ana.stowell
Slider image: @oliviarodrigo
