Girls' Camp Shopping List

A girls’ camp needs more than food and sleeping space. This shopping list covers shared meals, drinks, cooking equipment, lighting, registration supplies, decorations and sports gear for a smooth camp setup. Plan reusable tableware for every participant plus a small reserve, and check dietary and medical information before ordering groceries. Buy or borrow bulky equipment early, especially tables, chairs, coolers and sports items, so nothing is missing when the venue opens.

The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.

Tips

Count reusable plates, bowls, cups and cutlery for every participant, then add 10% spare place settings. This prevents shortages when items are dropped, misplaced or still waiting to be washed.
Plan drinks for the full programme, not just mealtimes: allow about 2–3 drinks per person during the first hour and keep extra water available in jugs and coolers. Chill drinks at least 4 hours before arrival.
Order groceries only after dietary requirements and medical information have been checked. Place the main order 3–5 days before camp and collect fresh or chilled items on the day of setup.
Pack one cooking and serving station with cutting boards, knives, mixing bowls, serving spoons, kettles and thermos flasks. Put these together in labelled storage bins so volunteers do not have to search through separate boxes.
Test every extension cord, power strip, kettle, speaker and lantern before opening the venue. Bring at least two spare batteries or charging options for each battery-powered light and keep cables away from sleeping and walking areas.

Frequently asked questions

How much tableware do I need for a girls' camp?: Prepare one reusable plate, bowl, cup, mug and cutlery set per participant, plus at least 10% extra. For 30 campers, that means 33 of each item where practical, with additional mugs if hot drinks are served often.
How many drinks should I buy for girls' camp?: For the first hour, allow 2–3 drinks per person, then plan roughly 1 drink per person per hour depending on the weather and activities. Buy or refill water for the entire stay and chill cold drinks at least 4 hours before participants arrive.
When should I order groceries for a girls' camp?: Check registrations, dietary requirements and medical information first, then place the main grocery order 3–5 days before camp. Collect chilled and fresh products on the setup day, ideally within 2–4 hours of serving.
What equipment should I arrange before girls' camp?: Reserve tables, folding chairs, coat racks, storage bins, coolers, sports equipment and lighting at least 1–2 weeks ahead. Test electrical equipment and pack extension cords, power strips and lanterns no later than the day before opening.