Summer sports camp is just around the corner! Whether your child is joining us for their very first camp or returning for another unforgettable week, packing a few simple essentials can help them feel confident, comfortable, and ready to have fun.

At Run To Win, we want camp mornings to be exciting, not stressful. That's why we've put together this easy packing checklist to help your family feel prepared before the first whistle blows. The good news? You don't need to overpack. We provide many of the things campers need so they can focus on what matters most: learning new skills, making friends, and having an incredible week.

RTW coaches playing a word game with campers during snack time.

The Essential Summer Sports Camp Packing Checklist

Refillable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is one of the most important parts of a successful camp day. Every camper should bring a refillable water bottle to camp.

Don't worry if your child forgets theirs; we have large water jugs and water fountains available at every camp, along with cups so every camper can stay hydrated. Still, having a personal water bottle makes it easy for campers to grab a quick drink between drills, games, and Team Time.

Healthy Snack

Campers should bring a healthy snack to enjoy during our scheduled snack break.

While some partner locations provide snacks, families should plan to pack one unless they've been told otherwise. Granola bars, fruit, crackers, or cheese sticks are all great options to help campers stay energized throughout the day.

Athletic Clothing

Comfortable athletic clothing allows campers to move freely while playing games, learning new skills, and participating in activities.

Choose lightweight clothing that's easy to run, jump, and play in. Since many campers are active all morning or afternoon, breathable clothing is always a great choice.

Athletic Shoes

A good pair of athletic shoes is one of the most important items to pack.

For soccer, baseball, and flag football camps, campers are welcome to wear cleats if they prefer. For all other camps, athletic shoes provide the support needed for movement, drills, and games.

Sunscreen

Many of our camps include outdoor activities, so we recommend applying sunscreen before arriving each day.

Our coaches also have spray sunscreen available throughout camp to help campers reapply as needed. Keeping campers protected from the sun helps everyone stay comfortable and focused on having fun.

Backpack

A backpack isn't required, but it's one of the easiest ways to keep everything together.

Water bottles, snacks, jackets, hats, and other personal belongings are much easier to keep track of when they're all in one place, which also helps reduce trips to our lost-and-found.

Weather-Appropriate Layers

Some mornings can be cool, while afternoons warm up quickly.

Packing a light sweatshirt or jacket helps campers stay comfortable no matter what the weather looks like that day.

What You DON'T Need to Pack

One of the best parts about Run To Win camps is that families don't have to worry about bringing sports equipment.

We provide everything campers need to participate, including balls, cones, training equipment, and sport-specific gear. Your child simply needs to arrive ready to learn and have fun.

We also ask families to leave these items at home:

• Phones and other electronics (unless previously approved for medical or accessibility needs)

• Valuable jewelry

• Other expensive personal items

  
  

This helps campers stay engaged with their teammates while reducing the chance of valuable items being lost or damaged.

Helpful Tips Before Camp Starts

A successful camp day starts before your child even arrives.

Here are a few simple ways to help them have their best experience:

• Eat a healthy breakfast before camp.

• Get a good night's sleep.

• Wear comfortable athletic clothing.

• Bring a labeled water bottle and snack.

• Label jackets, backpacks, hats, and other belongings.

• Encourage your child to come with a positive attitude and a willingness to try new things.

  
  

For campers attending for the first time, remind them that it's okay to feel a little nervous. Our coaches work hard to create a welcoming environment where every camper feels included, encouraged, and supported from day one.

What Campers Receive at Run To Win

Parents often ask what campers receive during the week.

Every camper receives:

• A Run To Win camp shirt on the second-to-last day of camp to wear during our exciting final day.

• A sports ball that matches the camp they attended, given at the end of the week.

• Multi-Sport campers receive a Run To Win hat instead of a sports ball.

  
  

These keepsakes help campers remember the friendships they made, the skills they learned, and the memories they created throughout the week.

Camper with an RTW soccer ball to take home after camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need to bring sports equipment?

No. We provide all sport-specific equipment for every camp.

Should my child bring a backpack?

While it's not required, we highly recommend bringing one to keep snacks, water bottles, jackets, and other belongings organized.

What if my child forgets their water bottle?

No problem! Every Run To Win camp has water jugs or fountains available, along with cups so campers can stay hydrated throughout the day.

What shoes should my child wear?

Athletic shoes are recommended for every camp. Cleats are optional for soccer, baseball, and flag football camps.

My child is nervous about camp. What should I do?

That's completely normal! Many campers feel nervous before their first day. Our coaches are intentionally trained to create a fun, welcoming environment where every child feels valued. Before long, campers are making new friends, learning new skills, and cheering on their teammates.

Ready for an Amazing Week?

Packing for summer sports camp doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple essentials and a positive attitude are all your child needs to start the week with confidence.

At Run To Win, we're looking forward to another incredible summer of sports, friendships, character growth, and fun. Our coaches can't wait to welcome campers, encourage them, and help create memories they'll carry long after camp ends.

We'll see you at camp!