Sending your child to sleepaway camp means preparing for dirt, sweat, and adventure—all with little to no access to laundry. So, pack with the reality in mind: clothes that can handle repeated wears, and won’t make you cringe when your child walks back into your home. After all, nobody wants their kid returning with that “camp smell” that lasts for weeks. Here are some tips for packing the right camp clothing—because laundry day at camp is often just a myth. Here are Mabel’s Labels tips for the best clothing for summer camp.
How Does Laundry Work at a Typical Summer Camp?
Laundry? What’s that? At most traditional sleepaway camps, laundry is not done frequently—if at all—during the season or your kids’ session. While some fancy camps might offer weekly services (lucky them!), most expect kids to wear the same clothes over and over. If laundry does happen, it’s usually a bulk situation every two weeks, which means there’s a good chance your child’s socks will go home with someone else (but at least you’ll get them back…eventually). Be sure to label everything to avoid any unfortunate clothing mix-ups!
What Are the Best Fabrics for Camp Clothing?
When laundry is rare (or practically nonexistent), fabric choice becomes crucial. Look for materials that are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and odor-resistant. Because let’s be honest, your camper’s clothes are going to see some action.
- Merino Wool – Naturally odor-resistant, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Perfect for socks, base layers, and even t-shirts.
- Polyester & Nylon – Quick-drying and durable. These are great for athletic shirts, shorts, and swimsuits.
- Cotton (Use Sparingly!) – Soft but moisture-absorbing. Fine for a hoodie on chilly nights, but avoid cotton socks or underwear unless you want to risk a swampy situation.
What Clothes Last the Longest Without Washing?
You’ll need clothes that can survive multiple wears without looking or smelling like they’ve been through a mud run. Look for clothes with antimicrobial properties or those designed for activewear.
Top Picks for Durable, Low-Maintenance Camp Clothing:
- Performance T-Shirts – Moisture-wicking shirts that dry fast and resist odors.
- Hiking Shorts & Quick-Dry Pants – Skip the denim and go for lightweight, synthetic-blend fabrics. Bonus points for convertible pants (zip-off to shorts).
- Sweatshirts & Hoodies – One warm layer is usually enough; a fleece or lightweight hoodie works well for chilly nights.
- Rain Jacket – For those surprise rain showers or early morning dew.
Should You Pack Socks for Summer Camp? If So, What Kind?
Yes, yes, a thousand times yes! Proper socks are essential for avoiding blisters and discomfort, especially in hot weather.
- Moisture-Wicking Sports Socks – Best for hot summer camps. Choose synthetic or blended athletic socks that keep feet dry.
- Thin Merino Wool Socks – Perfect for cooler evenings with extra odor resistance.
- Avoid Cotton Socks – They trap moisture and lead to soggy feet, blisters, and stinky camp cabins
How Many Pairs? At least one pair per day, plus two extra in case of swampy, wet mishaps.
Pro tip: The Custom Clothing Stamp is the best way to label socks! The stamp doesn’t wash off, even on the sweatiest, stinkiest of socks!
What’s the Best Swimwear for Summer Camp?
Camp means a lot of water activities, so you’ll need durable, quick-drying swimwear.
- For Girls: A sporty one-piece or secure tankini is best. Avoid bikinis—because no one wants a wardrobe malfunction during a cannonball contest.
- For Boys: Board shorts or swim trunks with a built-in liner. Quick-dry fabrics are a must to avoid soggy shorts all day.
- Rash Guards: A great bonus for sun protection and reducing chafing from life jackets.
How Many Swimsuits? At least two, so one can dry while the other is in use.
Should Kids Wear Open-Toed Shoes or Not?
Closed-toe shoes are the way to go. Open-toed sandals are just an accident waiting to happen with stubbed toes and creepy crawlies lurking around.
Best Shoes for Camp:
- Hiking Shoes or Sneakers – A sturdy pair of closed-toe shoes is essential. Avoid bulky boots unless required by the camp.
- Sport Sandals (With a Backstrap) – If sandals are allowed, make sure they have a backstrap (Keens, Tevas , or Chacos work best).
- Avoid Crocs for Hiking – Crocs are great for lounging but not for the rugged outdoors.
How Many Pairs? Two: one pair of sneakers/hiking shoes and one pair of sport sandals for downtime.
Packing Checklist for Camp Clothing: (for a full camp packing list, click here)
✔ Quick-dry performance t-shirts
✔ Moisture-wicking shorts and pants
✔ Lightweight hoodie or fleece
✔ Rain jacket
✔ Pj’s and underwear
✔ Moisture-wicking sports socks (one per day + extras)
✔ Two swimsuits
✔ Rash guard
✔ Sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes
✔ Sport sandals (with a backstrap)
✔ Water shoes
✔ Comfortable sleepwear
✔ Sun hat with a snap-closure neck strap
✔ Two hats (bucket or baseball)
Mabel’s Labels Key Takeaways for summer camp clothing:
Packing for summer camp means prioritizing the type of fabrics you choose. With the right gear, your camper will be comfortable and ready for adventure—even with minimal laundry access, so make sure to consider the following for summer camp clothing:
- Choose synthetic blends or merino wool; avoid cotton.
- Prioritize durability, quick-drying fabrics, and odor resistance.
- Ensure shoes offer proper foot protection.
- Pack enough socks and underwear for the length time your kid’s at camp
- Swimwear, always two (so one can be worn while the other dies)
- Don’t forget a sun hat for UV protection.
