Packing for Camp Tips & Rants Teen Tuesday Post by Rebecca Elspas

Teen Tuesday

by Rebecca Elspas, Teen Blogger

It's Camp Time! You know what that means… Packing! (yay?)

The annual dilemma for a camp-goer (and his or her parents)? That dreaded packing. During the school year, when I have brief weekend events to attend, night-before packing is typical. But this year, for the first time, I am going to a sleep-away camp for the entire summer to work as a counselor. It's near San Diego and for five whole weeks!

Me in red dress saying bye to friends before camp, MommyBlogExpert.com 

In only a couple of days I will blogging directly from summer camp!  As a naturally heavy packer, “just in case” is my motto when shoving all the stuff I might need into my little black suitcase until it needs to be sat on to squeeze everything in. (Just like in the movies!) 

After pretty much almost buying the whole of both Target and H&M stores, it was more than obvious I was going to have to rethink getting that big shopping cart full of clothes. Not one of those little shopping carts with the little red flag saying “shopper in training” or something cheesy like that. This shopping cart was a legitimately shiny metal cage big enough for a full grown man, with the added bonus of squeaky wheels.

My dog Dexter watches me pack and even decides to help out...

MommyBlogExpert.com

MommyBlogExpert.com

It really doesn’t bother me to get a little dirty, unlike the stereotypical California Beverly Hills Girl. But hey, I’m a girl, and however cliché this sounds, I gotta look at least halfway decent cause I'm going to sleepaway camp for the first time. Ever! It’s exhilarating!

I really need at least five shirts, no six, and that one won’t match anything…should I buy those sweatpants they're selling? I get a 20% discount as camp staff…wait did I forget to pack my pillow?

This is what my packing rants sound like, and honestly it’s better to just make a list. I got the idea from somewhere online that you should write a packing list of everything you packed, then bring it with you on the trip. Then, as you are closing your bags for the last time, check off each item. You won’t forget anything, from your ponytail holders (is it just me, or do I lose at least three a day?) to that giant jacket you brought, “just in case.”

MommyBlogExpert.com

One of my friends gave me this tip: Don’t wear or buy anything that is similar to things you already have. For example, if you packed a mint green and black striped shirt, don’t bring a turquoise and black striped shirt as well. Spend your limited clothing budget money on something truly unique that you don't already have. That way you'll always have the widest variety of things to wear and look your best. 

By the way, does anyone know any luggage brands that have really colorful suitcases that stand out like crazy? I’m feeling like something neon. 

Shoutout to all those heavy packers like me out there!

Looking forward to the fresh mountain air and being among nature...

MommyBlogExpert.com

Comment & Connect
Have a question for me? Want to share some of your own packing tips, advice or experiences? Please leave a comment -- I look forward to hearing from you. You're invited to stay in touch with me, too, by following me on Twitter @RebElspas and on Pinterest.

FTC Disclosure: No payment or other compensation was exchanged in association with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.