If you have enrolled your child in Vacation Bible School (VBS), you may be wondering: “Do they need to bring anything?” The good news is that most VBS programs supply almost everything your child will need, from crafts and snacks to music and activities. However, a little preparation can help your child’s experience go more smoothly and be more enjoyable.
Most church camp packing lists are pretty much the same thing, but you should go through the camp requirements, rules, and regulations and use the camp's "What to Pack" list to ensure you don't leave anything out.
Read the camp dress code before you buy anything
Every camp has one, and most parents never open it until something gets flagged. Before you buy or pack a single item, pull up your camp's dress code page or call and ask directly. Look for specifics on:
- Shirt length and neckline (tank tops often need a minimum strap width or aren't allowed at all)
- Shorts' length, usually measured against fingertip length or a set inseam
- Swimsuit requirements, including whether one-pieces are required or board shorts are needed over a two-piece
- Whether leggings count as pants alone, or need a shirt long enough to cover them
Clothes for a Modest Church Camp Packing List
- 10 to 12 shirts with sleeves and higher necklines
- 4 to 5 pairs of shorts
- 1 pair of jeans or leggings
- 1 light hoodie or sweatshirt
- A modest swimsuit
- 1 chapel outfit
- Raincoat/Poncho or Rain Gear
- Pajamas
- Socks
- Underwear
-
Gym shoes/Athletic shoes
Layering a cardigan or oversized button-up thrown over a tank top turns a borderline item into something that clears almost any dress code, and it doubles as a jacket for cooler evenings.
If you're shopping ahead of camp, our church camp t-shirt collection is built with modest necklines and sleeve lengths from the start, so you're not cross-checking every shirt against a dress code sheet before it goes in the suitcase.
Modest Swimwear for Church Camp
The safest bet: a modest one-piece, or a two-piece paired with board shorts and a rash guard or swim shirt. If your camp allows two-pieces at all, get the coverage requirements in writing before you start shopping.
Toiletries and Personal Care
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant and sunscreen
- Hairbrush and hair ties
- Feminine care products
- Face wash
- Bug spray
- Shower shoes, non-negotiable for communal showers
Bedding and Cabin Basics
- Sleeping bag, or a fitted sheet and flat sheet
- A pillow and pillowcase
- A blanket
Confirm with your camp whether bedding is provided before packing your own.
Faith Essentials Worth Prioritizing
- A Bible
- A journal and pen
- A refillable water bottle
- A flashlight
- Sunglasses and a hat
- hand sanitizer and tissues
A journal earns its place on this list. Sermon notes, prayer requests, and campfire conversations are easy to lose track of without somewhere to write them down. Browse faith-based journals if your child doesn't already have one they like.
If you’re unsure about anything, ask your church’s VBS director or registration team; they'll be thrilled to help you.
0 comments