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Our kid is heading to 6th grade outdoor camp, and like a lot of parents, I opened the school’s packing list and thought, “Okay, what does this actually mean?” So I built the list I wish I’d been handed: kid-sized gear that keeps them warm, dry and happy, without buying a whole adult camping setup.
It also makes a great holiday gift list for grandparents and relatives who want to give something useful. Every item is in one collection.
First, a tip: check your school’s official packing list before you buy, and label everything with your child’s name. Camp gear wanders.
Sleeping
REI Co-op Kindercone 25 Sleeping Bag ($51.93)
A kid-sized bag means less empty space to heat up, so they sleep warmer. Cabins and tents at outdoor school can get chilly at night. Find it in the collection.
REI Co-op Kindercamp Sleeping Pad ($54.95)
A pad adds comfort and keeps the cold ground from stealing warmth. Even on a cabin bunk, it’s a nice upgrade. Find it in the collection.
REI Co-op Compression Stuff Sack ($17.93)
Squishes the sleeping bag down so it actually fits with everything else. Kids can manage it on their own, which matters on packing day. Find it in the collection.
Layers and rain gear
REI Co-op Rainwall Rain Jacket (Kids’) ($34.83)
Outdoor school happens rain or shine. A real rain jacket is the single most important item on the list. Find it in the collection.
REI Co-op Trailsmith Fleece (Kids’) ($37.93)
The cozy middle layer for cool mornings and campfire evenings. Find it in the collection.
REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket (Kids’) ($39.83)
A warm, packable jacket for the coldest part of the day. It’s a great gift because they’ll wear it all winter too. Find it in the collection.
REI Co-op Midweight Base Layer (Kids’) ($9.83)
An affordable base layer for sleeping warm and layering under everything else. Cotton gets cold when wet, so a base layer is worth it. Find it in the collection.
Darn Tough Kids’ Socks ($25)
Warm, comfy socks make or break a hiking day. Pack an extra pair or two, since kids will find every puddle. Find it in the collection.
L.L.Bean Kids’ Balaclava ($16.99)
Keeps ears, neck and face warm on frosty mornings, and it’s hard to lose, unlike a hat. Find it in the collection.
Daypack, water and light
CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids’ Hydration Pack ($55)
A kid-sized daypack with built-in water for hikes and field lessons. Hands-free sipping means they actually drink. Find it in the collection.
CamelBak Eddy+ Kids’ 14 oz Bottle ($9.93)
A simple, spill-resistant bottle for meals and the cabin. Cheap enough to grab two. Find it in the collection.
Black Diamond Wiz Kids’ Headlamp ($34.95)
A headlamp made for kids, so they can find the bathroom at night without a flashlight in hand. It also makes nighttime feel like an adventure. Find it in the collection.
What I’m still hunting for
A few things on most camp lists didn’t make my collection because I couldn’t find kid versions I liked: warm gloves, a small toiletry bag and a kid-size camp pillow. A pillowcase stuffed with a fleece works in a pinch. A small handmade keepsake from our Techno Tink Treasures shop also makes a sweet good-luck token for a nervous first-time camper.
A dad’s last word
Do a practice night in the backyard or living room. Let them pack their own bag with you, so they know where everything is. And slip a note in the side pocket. They’ll pretend they didn’t read it.
