Your Packing List: A Volunteer’s Must Haves

You’re volunteering for the first time, and you want to ensure you’re well-prepared. While you do receive a general packing list before you head out, here are some of Bryn’s (Campfire Circle volunteer and self-proclaimed packing expert) absolute must-haves when heading out to overnight camp.

1. Comfort above all else! Leave your fancy outfits at home – don’t bring anything that you would worry about getting lost or damaged.
2. Pack warm clothes. Remember, it gets way colder at night and there are mosquitos, so bring pants, socks and at least one sweater – even if it’s the middle of July!
3. Bring a headlamp rather than a flashlight so you can keep your hands free when walking about at night.
4. Protect yourself from the elements – bring sunscreen, bug spray, a rain jacket, sunglasses and a hat. You will be in the great outdoors a lot.
5. Bring a camera, even a disposable one, to capture memories.
6. Bring books and games. One regular volunteer brings twinkle lights. These are things to keep kids occupied when they’re in their cabins, and things to do at night.
7. Bring at least TWO bathing suits – you may end up going swimming twice in one day, and you never want to have to put on a wet one.
8. Vary your footwear – bring a pair of sneakers or hiking boots, sandals for the beach/boat shoes and shoes for the cabin/shower.
9. Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure. Camp is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to be silly, fun, and just have a great time with campers.