Summer ID camp season is almost here, and if your athlete is attending their first college soccer ID camp, packing right can make the difference between a great experience and a stressful one.
We've talked to dozens of families who've been through the ID camp circuit. Here's the complete packing list — plus a few things most families forget.
Essential Gear
On the field:
- 2-3 pairs of soccer cleats (firm ground + turf if you have them — fields vary)
- Shin guards and soccer socks (at least 2 pairs of each)
- 3-4 moisture-wicking training tops (camps often run multiple sessions per day)
- 2-3 pairs of shorts or training pants
- Compression shorts or sliding shorts
- Sports bra (if applicable) — bring extras
- Goalkeeper gloves if your athlete plays keeper
Recovery & comfort:
- Flip-flops or slides for between sessions
- A warm-up jacket or pullover (early morning sessions can be cool)
- Hat and sunglasses for downtime
- Rain jacket — outdoor camps don't stop for drizzle
Hydration & Nutrition
This is where most families underpack:
- A large insulated water bottle (32oz minimum — refill stations are common, but you need capacity)
- Electrolyte packets or sports drink mix (Liquid IV, LMNT, Gatorade powder)
- Protein bars or trail mix for between sessions
- Fruit that travels well (bananas, apples, oranges)
- A small cooler if driving — overnight camps often have gaps between provided meals
Pro tip: ID camps in Texas, Florida, and California in June-July mean extreme heat. Double your water intake estimates. If your athlete cramps easily, pack extra electrolytes and consider magnesium supplements.
The Recruiting Essentials (Don't Skip These)
This is what separates ID camp regulars from families who get results:
- Player profile one-sheet — A single page with your athlete's photo, stats, GPA, contact info, club team, and highlight reel link. Bring 10-15 printed copies. Hand them to coaches at check-in or after sessions.
- Highlight video — Have the link ready on your phone AND printed on the one-sheet. Keep it under 3 minutes. Coaches won't watch longer.
- Academic transcript or unofficial report card — Some coaches ask. Having it ready shows you're serious.
- A list of questions for coaches — "What are you looking for in recruits?" and "What's your recruiting timeline?" show genuine interest.
Overnight Camp Extras
If your athlete is staying in dorms:
- Twin XL sheets and a light blanket (most college dorms have twin XL beds)
- Towel and washcloth (dorms rarely provide these for camp guests)
- Toiletries: shampoo, body wash, deodorant, toothbrush, sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Phone charger and a portable battery pack
- A small fan — dorm AC is unpredictable
- Earplugs and an eye mask — shared rooms with strangers
- Flip-flops for the shower (non-negotiable)
- A combination lock if the camp info mentions lockers
Medical & Safety
- Any prescription medications (with a note from your doctor if required by the camp)
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Athletic tape and pre-wrap
- Ice pack (instant cold packs are lightweight and clutch)
- Band-aids and blister pads
- Insect repellent (evening sessions near grass = mosquitoes)
- EpiPen or inhaler if your athlete has allergies or asthma
- A copy of your insurance card
What NOT to Bring
- Expensive jewelry or watches — leave them home
- A bad attitude — coaches notice everything, including how players respond to coaching and interact with teammates
- Your ego as a parent — stay off the sideline unless spectators are explicitly welcome. Let your athlete do the talking on the field.
The Night-Before Checklist
The morning of camp is not the time to realize you forgot cleats:
- ✅ Gear bag packed and by the door
- ✅ Recruiting one-sheets printed
- ✅ Highlight video link tested (actually click it — make sure it works)
- ✅ Registration confirmation printed or screenshotted
- ✅ Directions to the field/facility saved offline
- ✅ Water bottles filled and in the fridge
- ✅ Early bedtime — your athlete needs to show up fresh
Find the Right Camp First
Packing is easy once you've found the right camp. If you're still deciding, search 900+ college soccer ID camps across 11 states on IDCampFinder — filter by state, date, cost, and division to find the best fit for your athlete.
Good luck this summer. Your athlete's got this.
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