What to Take to Diabetes Camp?

camping cartoonYou’ve investigated all the camps. You’ve made your decision. You can’t wait to go. BUT, what do you take to diabetes camp? Is it any different than any other camp experience?

Once you are accepted, most camps will forward an orientation package that provides certain recommendations to campers. Some of what you should bring will be based on your child’s age, the camp location (e.g., Alaska versus Florida), and any specialized activities planned. However, here are some recommended items you may want to think about bringing or ask the camp about whether they will be provided.

Nuts and Bolts Items:

  • Sleeping bag (and or sheets) and pillow
  • Alarm Clock
  • Writing Items (pen, paper, envelopes, stamps)
  • Clothes (enough for the entire stay or at least enough to get to laundry day)
  • T-shirts, underwear, pants, sweatpants, socks (lots of them!)
  • Towel
  • Rain and/or other appropriate jacket
  • Toiletries (tooth brush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
  • Two pairs of tennis shoes (in case one gets wet!)
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Camera and extra memory cards
  • Spending Money (for the camp store and any day trips or excursions)
  • Your Contact Information (parents, doctor, and other emergency contacts)
  • Medications (if any)
  • Detailed Information on Medications (including dosage, etc.)
  • Special Dietary Restrictions

Things to ask the camp about:

  • Map of how to get there.
  • Mock Schedule of Activities
  • What type of monitoring of blood sugar/diet is undertaken, given increased activity level?
  • Counselor/Staff/After Hours Contact Information
  • Recommended Items to bring (including specific items related to that camp).

Hopefully, this list will get you started for what to take to diabetes camp! Have Fun!!

Still haven’t decided on a camp? For a comprehensive list of camps, click here.

By Erich Schultz – Last Reviewed February 2013.