Camp departure is getting close, the endless packing list is sitting on the table, and the suitcase is still empty. So many things to sort out, and a child who couldn't care less about helping. It's more of an adventure than it sounds. And then it hits you: you'll be completely out of touch for a whole week. For some parents, especially with younger kids, that's where the real stress kicks in.
That's why we put together a few practical things that are genuinely worth considering when packing for summer camp 2026, including how to stay in contact.
1. A Smartwatch Instead of a Phone
Parents and kids want to stay in touch, but phones are usually not allowed at camp. Camp leaders try to keep kids engaged with each other rather than glued to a screen. But you still want to know your child is okay.
That's where kids' GPS watches come in as a solid alternative. No endless social media scrolling, no games. But they do the one thing that matters most: keeping kids connected to their parents.
The LAMAX Handee Plus, for example, supports calls, messages, GPS tracking, and an SOS button. Parents can also set up safe zones and get a notification if their child leaves the designated area.
2. A Small Card with Contacts and Important Information
Nothing groundbreaking here, but it's one of the most useful things you can pack for your child. On a small card, write down both parents' phone numbers, contacts for other close family members, any allergy information, current medications, and any health conditions worth noting.
Camp leaders usually have this information too, but it's good for kids to have it on hand themselves.
3. A Camera to Capture Camp Through Their Eyes
Kids often have so many experiences at camp that they simply can't put into words when they get home. Their own camera lets them capture it all from their perspective. Parents get a much better sense of what their child got up to and how they felt. And beyond that... the child gets a memory that lasts a lifetime.
The LAMAX instaKid camera prints photos on the spot, so kids can put together their own camp scrapbook to bring home.
4. A Spare Charging Cable and Labelled Accessories
Kids losing things. Classic. And charging cables are practically built for it. On top of that, kids borrow each other's stuff all the time, and after a week nobody remembers which cable belongs to who.
If your child is taking a smartwatch or any other electronics, make sure to pack:
- a spare charging cable,
- labelled accessories,
- a small bag or case for the electronics.
5. The Most Important Thing Won't Fit in the Suitcase
Camp isn't about a perfectly packed bag. It's about a child's first big adventures without parents, new friendships, evenings around a campfire, and situations that teach them to stand on their own two feet.
Pack a few practical helpers, add a healthy dose of trust, and you're good to go.
FAQ
Can a child have a smartwatch at camp? In most cases, yes. While mobile phones are often restricted or banned at camps, smartwatches usually aren't an issue. It's still worth checking the specific camp's rules before packing.
How can I stay in touch with my child at camp without a phone? One option is a kids' GPS watch with calling and messaging features. Your child can call you without having a full smartphone.
What GPS watch is suitable for camp? Look for a model with a sturdy build, long battery life, GPS tracking, and an SOS button. Simple controls are important too, so the child can use it independently.
What should I pack for a child's first camp? Beyond the items on the organiser's list, it's worth thinking about labelled clothing, a contact card, basic toiletries, a rain jacket, and possibly a smartwatch or camera.
Are kids' GPS watches safe? Yes, as long as they come from a trusted manufacturer and allow parents to control contacts and device settings. Before buying, it's worth checking how the manufacturer handles data and where it's stored.
