No kid’s childhood would be complete without a trip to sleepaway camp! It’s exciting for them to finally spend time away from home, and you’ll have some much-needed kid-free relaxation. For all new camp parents out there, here’s a list of the top 10 things you absolutely cannot send your kid to camp without.

1. Pre-addressed Postcards

If you’re lucky, your child will remember to write you a note while they’re away! Make it even easier for them by sending them to camp with pre-addressed and pre-stamped postcards so all they have to do is write the sentiment. Pro tip: Let them pick out the postcards as well as some stickers and pens to bring with them. They’ll be much more likely to write you if they picked out the goodies themselves!

2. A Notebook or Journal

Some camps will carve out time for kids to write in their journal, so make sure that your kid has a nice one to do it in! It’ll make for a great keepsake of their time, and they’ll be able to practice their penmanship while they’re at it.

3. Playing Cards

Even though they’ll probably have tons of planned activities to keep them busy, many camps offer quiet or free time. Send your kid with playing cards and some game ideas so they have something to keep themselves occupied with.

4. 3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner & Body Wash

We hate to break it to you, but your kid might not wash up at camp as much as they do at home. Don’t make it even more of a challenge by sending them with multiple bottles. Purchase a 2-in-1 or even better, 3-in-1 product that they can use quickly and easily.

5. Clothing Labels

Before you send your kid off to camp, keep in mind that some items won’t make it back. It could be little things like socks or underwear, but we have a tip to keep it all in their duffel from drop off to pick up! Customize labels for your children’s items that will be durable and easily identifiable. With multiple varieties from iron on to waterproof, there’s a style available for every one of their belongings.

6. A Reusable Water Bottle

Keep your kid hydrated while they’re away with a customized water bottle. Pro tip: Pick a design that can feature their name and favorite character so they always remember that it belongs to them.

7. Comforts of Home

Although you want your little one to enjoy their time at camp, think about sending them with a family photo or familiar stuffed animal. In the event that they do get a little homesick, having something from home will be nice to have close by. Pro tip: Don’t send them with their #1 security blanket just in case it gets lost.

8. A Disposable Camera

Let your child cherish the memories of camp for years to come with photos! Purchase 1 or 2 disposable cameras that they can use throughout their time away. Pro tip: When they get home, have the photos developed right away. Then, spend some time putting together a photo album so they can tell you all about the experience!

9. Ziploc Bags

Ziploc bags are perfect for both before and after camp. For younger children, pack a full day’s outfit in one bag, and have your child put the dirty clothes back into the bag at the end of the day. For older children, have them put the wet or extra dirty items in them so they avoid stinking up the entire duffel bag.

10. A Backpack or Tote Bag

Depending on what activities they’ll be doing, your kid will probably need a convenient bag to throw their daily belongings in. If they’ll be doing more outdoorsy and active things like hiking, pick up a backpack. For a more relaxed camp experience, a tote bag with their name on it will be just fine.

Remember, sleepaway camp can be as nerve wracking for your kids as it is for you. Make them apart of the packing process so they understand what they have with them, and have the opportunity to bring along anything else they may want. With these tips and tricks, you can relax knowing that your kid is totally prepared and ready for some trouble-free camp fun!