Friends of ASCCA: Windsor’s Summer Packing List

Summer is approaching, and so is Camp ASCCA! While the camp has its own packing list for your camper, I’d like to share a few additional items based on my own experiences. I’ve been going to Camp ASCCA for six years now, and I’ve made my fair share of packing mistakes along the way. Every summer, I re-evaluate and make changes, so I hope this list will help your child be ready for anything they have planned in their week at Camp.

• 1 pair of winter pajamas (in addition to summer pajamas, in case your cabin gets really cold—especially if you’re sensitive to cold rooms)
• 6 shirts
• 6 pairs of shorts or pants
• 10 pairs of socks (you may want clean socks after rest period if you take your shoes off)
• 1 sundress
• 1 book (for reading during rest period)
• 1 pillow (they provide one, but it’s very thin)
• 1 pillowcase
• 1 quilt or blanket (they provide one light blanket, but the cabins can get very cold)
• 1 pair of earplugs (for showering or sleeping)
• 1 hair dryer (so you don’t have to sleep with wet hair)
• 1 lotion (especially if you wear a leg or hand brace)
• 1 pool cover-up
• 2 toothbrushes (in case one falls on the floor)
• 1 toothbrush cover
• 2 pairs of footies
• 1 eye mask (if your bunk is near a light)
• 1 pair of sunglasses (the sun can be bright during meals and water activities)
• 2 hair ties
• 1 shoebox or small container for snacks (in case they don’t have your favorites)
• 1 small alarm clock (if you like to keep track of the time—bed shelves are small and narrow)
• 1 notepad and pencil (to exchange contact info with new friends)

As I always say: Label EVERYTHING with your name or initials! It will save a lot of time and trouble when your counselor packs your belongings on the last day if you have your name on your stuff. Plus, if you lose anything, the item will be put in the lost and found box and returned to you quickly.

Of course, check the recommended packing list on the Camp ASCCA website under Camper Resources. They’ve made it into a convenient checklist. Their list includes items like a hat, jacket, raincoat or poncho, flashlight, disposable camera, etc. My list covers just a few additional items that I have found to be helpful, and I hope they will be useful for you too.