Swimming at Sleepaway Camp: What to Pack Besides a Bathing Suit

There’s something simple and nostalgic about swimming at camp. Splashing in the water with your friends, practicing your strokes, relaxing poolside, and enjoying those long summer afternoons...

Whether it's instructional swim, free swim, pool games, water sports, or a special trip to the lake, swimming is one of the highlights of the sleepaway camp experience. Many campers spend several hours each week around the water, which is why having the right gear is an important part of any summer camp packing list.

But wait…is a bathing suit enough? Do you need tons of accessories to make it as idyllic as it sounds? How do you keep safe in the sun? What should you carry it all in?

This guide explores everything you need for swimming at camp and breaks down the essential camp pool checklist so your camper is fully prepared for a fun, safe summer.

Bathing Suits and Rash Guards

Bathing suits come in a variety of styles, colors, and fits. While personal style matters, simplicity and durability tend to work best for sleepaway camp life.

For boys and men, a simple pair of swim trunks is usually ideal. For girls, a classic one-piece or athletic-style swimsuit works well for active camp swimming.

Since many camps include swimming multiple times per week (and often daily), it’s recommended to pack at least 2–3 bathing suits. This ensures there is always a dry option available, even during busy laundry cycles.

A rash guard is also highly recommended. It provides extra protection for shoulders, back, and arms and helps reduce sun exposure during long outdoor swim sessions. Rash guards are especially useful at camps with outdoor pools or waterfront activities.

There is also a wide range of modest swimwear for girls and women, including swim shirts, skirts, leggings, and full-coverage suits. These options are chosen for both personal comfort and religious preferences, and are widely used at many camps.

Pool Towels

The bigger the better…you probably love to dry off and cozy up in a huge towel at the side of the pool and most towels come in a bath sheet size that is particularly suited for this. Pool towels are often thinner than bath towels for quick drying. Make sure they are absorbent enough to wipe off all that chlorinated water!

The new towel on the block is a microfiber, quick-drying towel. No matter which towel you choose, you’ll need a bunch of them, as they don’t always dry fully by the next swimming session…

Pool Day Checklist

A simple summer camp packing list for swimming can help ensure nothing gets forgotten:

• ✓ Swimsuit (2–3 recommended)
• ✓ Rash guard
• ✓ Pool towel
• ✓ Goggles
• ✓ Water bottle
• ✓ Sunscreen
• ✓ Flip flops or water shoes
• ✓ Hairbrush or hair ties
• ✓ Sunglasses
• ✓ Pool bag
• ✓ Name labels

Swim Accessories

Beyond the basics, there are several accessories that make swimming at sleepaway camp more comfortable and enjoyable.

These include a bathing cap for long hair, a water bottle, goggles, nose plugs, ear plugs, a hairbrush, and flip flops or water shoes that are easy to slip on and off.

Goggles are especially popular for swim lessons and free swim, helping campers see clearly underwater and enjoy longer swim sessions comfortably.

Sunglasses for Camp

Sunglasses are often overlooked, but they are an important part of any summer camp packing list. Campers spend long hours outdoors where sunlight reflects off water, sand, and bright surfaces, creating strong glare.

Not all sunglasses are created equal. For camp, look for polarized lenses and full UV protection to protect eyes and improve visibility during outdoor activities.

Whether your camper is heading to the pool, canoeing on the lake, hiking, or relaxing at camp, good sunglasses help protect their eyes and enhance every outdoor moment.

Sun Protection

The best sun protection is staying in the shade, but during sleepaway camp, campers spend much of their day outdoors at the pool, waterfront, and sports fields.

A rash guard and sun hat are excellent first layers of protection. In addition, sunscreen should always be applied before heading to the pool or starting outdoor activities.

Water-resistant sunscreen is helpful, but it still needs to be reapplied throughout the day—especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.

Sunglasses are also an essential part of sun safety, protecting eyes from harmful UV rays while reducing glare during bright summer days.

Don’t forget SPF lip balm and, most importantly, a water bottle. Staying hydrated is a key part of keeping campers energized and comfortable during hot summer afternoons.

For the best protection, combine sunscreen, rash guards, hats, sunglasses, and hydration as part of your camper’s daily routine.

Swimming in a Lake or Waterfront?

Many sleepaway camps use lakes or waterfronts instead of pools. If your camp includes waterfront activities, water shoes can be especially useful for protecting feet from rocks, shells, or uneven surfaces.

Always check your camp’s summer camp packing list or guidelines, as some waterfront programs may also require life jackets for certain activities.

Pool Bags

With all these essentials, a good pool bag is a must-have. Look for one with separate compartments for wet towels and swimsuits.

After swimming, always empty wet items and hang them up to dry so they’re ready for the next session.

One Last Thing – Labels

Every summer, camp lost-and-found tables fill up with hundreds of unclaimed towels, goggles, water bottles, and clothing items. A simple waterproof name label can save a lot of frustration.

Be sure to label everything that goes into your camper’s summer camp packing list. It dramatically increases the chance that items make it back to the bunk instead of lost and found.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Swimming at Camp

How many swimsuits should I pack for sleepaway camp?

We recommend 2–3 swimsuits so campers always have a dry option available.

Do campers need goggles?

Goggles are optional but highly recommended for swim lessons and free swim.

Are water shoes necessary?

They are usually optional for pools, but often helpful for lake or waterfront camps.

How many towels should I include on my summer camp packing list?

At least 2–3 towels is ideal, depending on your camp’s laundry schedule.

Enjoy Your Swimming!

Preparing for swim time at sleepaway camp doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right summer camp packing list and a few smart essentials, campers can enjoy hours of fun, confidence, and comfort in the water.

See you at the pool! I’m the one in the green polka dot bathing suit 😊

About the Author