How Do You Prepare for Camp America?
Getting placed at camp is exciting. You've completed your application, secured your placement, sorted your visa, and now the countdown is on. But one of the biggest questions participants ask before departure is simple:
What should I do before I leave for camp?
In this episode of The Summer Camp Rookie, Holly shares practical advice from five summers at camp, covering everything from packing and travel to making friends and preparing for life in the USA.
What Should You Pack for Camp America?
The biggest mistake many first-time participants make is overpacking.
While it's tempting to buy lots of new clothes and equipment, camp life is often much more casual than people expect. Most participants spend their summer wearing comfortable clothes, sportswear, shorts, t-shirts, and practical footwear. Clothes get dirty, things get lost, and you'll likely end up wearing your favourite items repeatedly throughout the summer.
It's also important to remember that every camp is different. Some camps have specific dress codes, camp colours, or activity requirements, so always check the information your camp provides before you travel.
Camp America Packing Essentials
Many participants recommend bringing:
- Comfortable t-shirts and shorts
- Trainers and practical footwear
- Swimwear approved by your camp
- A hoodie or sweatshirt for cooler evenings
- Comfortable trousers or joggers
- Travel adapters
- Important travel documents
- Prescription medication if required
- A reusable water bottle
- Enough socks for camp life
Remember, many toiletries and everyday essentials can easily be purchased once you arrive in the USA.
What Should You Do Before Travelling?
Preparation doesn't stop with packing.
Before you leave, make sure you have copies of important documents, know how you're getting to camp, and understand what happens when you arrive in the USA. Many participants also recommend setting up an eSIM or international phone plan, saving camp contact details, and having key information written down in case your phone isn't available.
A little preparation can help reduce stress and make your journey much smoother.
Should You Talk to Other Participants Before Camp?
Many participants connect with future camp staff before travelling through group chats, social media groups, and flight groups.
While it's completely normal to feel nervous about arriving at camp, speaking to other participants beforehand can help you feel more comfortable and give you familiar faces to look out for during your journey.
That said, it's also perfectly normal to arrive knowing nobody. Many lifelong friendships begin on the very first day of camp.
Should You Plan Your Post-Camp Travel Before Camp Starts?
Not necessarily.
While it's useful to have ideas about where you'd like to travel after camp, many participants recommend keeping plans flexible. The people you meet, friendships you form, and opportunities that arise during the summer often influence where you travel afterwards.
Some participants spend their travel month exploring America with camp friends, while others decide they'd rather head home after a busy summer. Keeping your options open gives you the flexibility to make the most of the experience.
Common Camp America Preparation Tips
- Don't overpack
- Check camp-specific packing requirements
- Buy most toiletries in America
- Keep important documents organised
- Plan your journey to camp in advance
- Speak to other participants if it helps your confidence
- Stay flexible with post-camp travel plans
- Ask questions if you're unsure about anything
- Remember that every camp experience is different
What's the Best Way to Prepare for Camp?
The practical side matters, but one of the most valuable pieces of advice from experienced participants is to stay open-minded.
You can't fully plan the friendships you'll make, the experiences you'll have, or the opportunities that will come your way. The best preparation is often arriving with a positive attitude, a willingness to learn, and an openness to whatever the summer brings.
Watch the full episode to hear Holly's camp preparation tips and learn how to start your Camp America journey with confidence.
