How To Prepare

Orientation Meetings

Our orientation staff have extensive experience and knowledge about work and life in the United States. We use the orientation to prepare you for real situations that you may encounter at camp this summer, and to let you in on all those little secrets that we think you should know before you go - the good, the bad and the not so good - there is no small print here! We aim to give you everything you need to get the most out of your summer in the States and, of course, ask all those niggling questions...

Orientation dates and venues:

Coming Soon!

What To Pack

So...before we go anywhere, we'll start with your PASSPORT & VISA!
Without these two essential items you will be going nowhere!! Please make sure that your passport has your J1 visa stamp inside, and that your DS2019 form (Certificate of Eligibility) is kept with your passport.

DO NOT PACK any sharp implements in your carry-on luggage; such as a swiss army knife, scissors or nail clippers - it will only delay you you passing through security and it's going to be potentially embarrassing having your stuff binned in-front of you!

The list below is a suggested packing list. However, it is best to contact your camp director as they may have a packing list tailored to their region and climate.

shorts, t-shirts and other lightweight summer clothing.
clean underwear and socks - enough for at least a week and a half.
swim wear - at least two bathing costumes, please keep swimming costumes as conservative as possible; your Camp Director may not be too happy with a bathing outfit that leaves little to the imagination.
trainers (sneakers) - a must, they should not be your best pair though - they are sure to get a workout!
a couple of sweaters or sweatshirts - it may get cold in the evenings.
a water-proof outfit of some description - it's likely to rain at some point during you stay.
one good outfit - especially if you want to go clubbing as there is likely to be a dress code.
deodorant - if you don't use deodorant now is the time to start. Weather in the U.S. can be extremely humid, hot and sticky!
any prescribed medication you may be taking. If you can, bring enough to last the summer and get a note from your doctor listing the generic name of your medication, as names may differ from country to country. Please check with your camp or resort director to see where medication should be stored, as drugs may not be allowed in the bunks with the children.
a small amount of sun tan lotion and insect repellent.
a towel you will certainly need your own for your travels even if they are provided for you at camp.
sleeping bag - this is an absolute MUST - we suggest a 3 season sleeping bag which can be used as bedding during the summer or a good second blanket for those cold August nights!
copies of prescriptions you may need for medication, contact lenses or glasses.
a camera and rolls of film/memory cards.
a reliable watch/alarm clock - camps are very time-orientated!
something from your country - Americans will be fascinated by your accents - so bring along anything that will help others to understand where you're from.
a positive attitude with a lot of flexibility and a sense of humor.
at least $100 in cash - you may be required to purchase a bus or train ticket to get to camp which your Camp Director will reimburse you for, if you provide the receipt

Some vital pieces of paperwork - you should not leave home without!

insurance certificate (available on your Camp America Direct)
any student ID cards you have
copy of your completed medical form
2 spare passport photos - very hard to get in rural USA
copies of your passport, visa stamp and DS2019
the address of your camp or resort
our organisation's contact address as well as our U.S. address and phone numbers
and most importantly of all - THE HANDBOOK!