For International Participants
USA
Camp USA
Your Camp USA Packing Must-Haves!
Your Camp USA Packing Must-Haves!

Your Camp USA Packing Must-Haves!

May 14, 2019

2 -min read

It’s time to pack for camp! Packing for an adventure makes it feel real, and we’re so excited for the incredible memories you’re about to make.

One thing you shouldn’t worry about? Your Camp USA packing list! Here are the essentials to pack for camp.

Pack Light!

Don’t worry if you forget something. You can buy everything you need in the USA except for your important documents and medication.

Keep it Casual

You’ll be having a ton of outdoor fun at camp and it’s going to show on your clothes! Bring casual pieces that you aren’t worried about ruining. You may even want to leave behind some items when camp is over to make more space for souvenirs.

Modesty is Cool

You’re already a role model for young kids and it’s important to dress like one. Dress modestly, but still for warm weather, and focus your swimwear on function instead of fashion.

Be A Bargain Shopper

The U.S. has awesome deals on shoes and clothes, especially for name brands. Consider picking up some affordable new styles when you arrive- they’ll also be souvenirs!

Show Off Your Culture

If you have extra space, bring unique treats or small souvenirs from your home country. Sharing these will be a great way to bond with your fellow camp counselors from all over the world.

Share With Others!

Share with us and other campers what you pack for #campusa by following and tagging us on  instagram

Camp USA Packing List

Absolute Must-Haves!

Do not forget these irreplaceable items.
  • Passport
  • J-1 Visa
  • DS-2019 Form
  • International Driver’s License
  • Copy of each of the above documents
    • Keep the originals in your carry-on luggage and keep the copies in a separate bag when you travel.
  • $250 cash in USD
  • Debit or credit card that will work internationally
    • Check with your bank before you go
  • Medication
    • Bring enough medication to last the entire trip

Nice-To-Have

You’ll need the below items at camp, but you can buy any of them in the USA if you forget something.
  • Flashlight
  • Flip flops
  • Hat
  • Jeans
  • Light Jacket
  • Outfit for Going Out
  • Rain Boots
  • Rain Jacket
  • Shorts
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Sneakers
  • Socks
  • Sunglasses
  • Sweatshirt
  • Swimsuit
  • T-shirts
  • Toiletries
    • Shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, deodorant, sunscreen
  • Towel
  • Underwear
  • Waterproof Watch

Leave At Home

You will not need these items at camp, and it’s better to leave them behind.
  • Expensive jewelry
  • Family heirlooms
  • Bulky items
    • Large items, like a guitar, will count as one of your checked bags.
  • Insect Repellant
    • Insect repellant is country specific and should be bought in the USA.
learn more about camp usa

Interested in Camp USA?

Immerse yourself in a new culture, gain valuable skills, and form lifelong connections. Find out more to start your journey today.

Tags

For International Participants

share this article

Joy is a huge advocate for cultural exchange. She’s lived across the U.S. and various countries around the world including the UK, Australia and Indonesia. She has a unique perspective on working and thriving in other cultures. She’s been a contributing author on Au Pair USA program.

Tags

For International Participants

share this article

Related Articles

For International Participants

March 13, 2025

7 -min read
We at InterExchange know that an internship in the U.S. is both valuable and memorable, but there’s nothing like hearing it confirmed directly from our alumni! Last month, we had the chance to sit down with five of our recent participants to get their take on finding an internship, getting the visa, and adjusting to life in the U.S. Our alumni were:
NewsFor Hosts

March 5, 2025

< 1 -min read
A new report by the Alliance for International Exchange demonstrates how the Summer Work Travel (SWT) program strengthens America economically and diplomatically.
NewsTravel Experiences US Residents

March 3, 2025

5 -min read
An Australian Working Holiday offers a unique combination of travel and professional experience, making it an increasingly popular choice for young Americans seeking adventure abroad.