10 Essential Accessories For Kids Participating In Water Sports Camp

Dropping a child off at water sports camp means preparing them for a fast-paced environment where they will transition from paddleboards to sailing dinghies in a single afternoon. Without the right gear, a day of sun and spray can quickly turn into a miserable struggle with blisters, sunburn, and soggy, heavy equipment. Equipping young campers with durable, water-specific gear ensures they stay safe, comfortable, and focused on learning new skills on the water.

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Gear Checklist for a Safe and Fun Water Sports Camp

Water sports camps are demanding environments where gear is subjected to constant UV exposure, abrasive sand, and relentless soaking. Standard pool toys and casual beachwear simply will not survive a week of sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing. Campers need specialized gear designed to stay secure during active movement while protecting sensitive skin from chafing and sunburn.

A well-planned gear bag prevents common camp headaches, like blistered feet from soggy sneakers or shivering during morning wind gusts. Every item should serve a dual purpose of enhancing safety and maintaining physical comfort over hours of exposure. Investing in proper equipment up front means fewer mid-week replacements and a much happier camper at pick-up time.

When assembling a camp kit, prioritize visibility, ease of use for small hands, and rapid drying times. Gear that takes too long to dry becomes a breeding ground for mold and odors in the trunk of a car. Look for robust materials like marine-grade plastics, dense closed-cell foam, and high-UPF fabrics that stand up to both chlorinated pool water and harsh marine environments.

Kids Life Jacket – Stohlquist Youth Escape PFD

A high-quality Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is the single most critical safety item for any water camp, providing essential buoyancy and peace of mind during deep-water spills. While camps often provide bulk life jackets, they are frequently waterlogged, ill-fitting, and prone to chafing during active paddling. A personal, well-adjusted PFD ensures your child is both safe and comfortable enough to wear it willingly all day long.

The Stohlquist Youth Escape PFD is an exceptional choice due to its low-profile, contoured foam design that allows for unrestricted arm movement while paddling or rowing. Built with durable 200-denier oxford nylon, it features adjustable shoulder and side straps that lock the jacket securely onto a growing child’s torso. The waist belt placement prevents the jacket from riding up around the ears when the child is floating in the water.

• Weight range: Optimized for youth weighing between 50 and 90 pounds.
• Safety rating: US Coast Guard Approved Type III PFD.
• Key features: Padded shoulder straps, front zippered pocket for small essentials, and reflective accents for low-light visibility.

When fitting this vest, always tighten the waist strap first to ensure the PFD cannot slide up over the chest when tested by pulling upward on the shoulder straps.

This PFD is ideal for active youth participating in kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding who require maximum mobility. It is not suitable for toddlers under 50 pounds or for high-speed motorized water sports like tubing, which require a specialized Type I or II impact vest.

Water Shoes – Keen Kids Stingray Sandals

Sharp rocks, hot boat decks, and hidden oyster shells can easily cut a water camp session short without proper footwear. Regular flip-flops offer zero traction on wet surfaces and will instantly float away in a current, while standard sneakers become heavy, waterlogged weights. A dedicated water shoe protects small feet while providing the grip needed to scramble onto paddleboards and docks.

The Keen Kids Stingray Sandals excel in wet environments thanks to their non-marking rubber outsoles with siped pods that channel water away for exceptional traction. The upper is made of lightweight, abrasion-resistant TPU that does not absorb water, ensuring the sandals stay lightweight even when fully submerged. The secure-fit lace capture system combined with a hook-and-loop strap makes them easy for kids to pull on and adjust independently.

• Material: Water-resistant, washable polyester webbing and TPU upper.
• Protection: Signature Keen wrap-around rubber toe bumper for impact protection.
• Maintenance: Machine washable on a gentle cycle; must be air-dried away from direct heat to prevent warping.

Be aware that sand can occasionally slip inside the sandal during beach transitions, requiring a quick rinse in clean water to prevent abrasive rubbing against the skin.

These sandals are perfect for campers navigating slippery docks, rocky riverbeds, and sandy launch sites. They are not the best fit for pure pool swimming, where a barefoot approach is preferred, or for cold-water environments where neoprene booties are required for thermal insulation.

Rash Guard – O’Neill Youth Basic Skins UPF 50+

Hours of paddling and belly-boarding can cause painful chest friction against wet boards, while the sun’s glare off the water multiplies UV exposure. A premium rash guard acts as a second skin, preventing painful abrasions and shielding delicate skin from harmful solar radiation without the need for constant sunscreen reapplication on the torso.

The O’Neill Youth Basic Skins UPF 50+ is the industry standard for recreational water sports due to its high-quality 6-ounce polyester/spandex blend. It features flatlock stitched seams that lay completely flat against the skin to eliminate chafing under the arms and around the neck. The four-way stretch fabric retains its shape when wet, preventing the saggy, heavy fit common in cheaper alternatives.

• Sun Protection: Maximum UPF 50+ rating blocks 98% of harmful UV rays.
• Fit Type: Available in snug “skin fit” for surfing or looser “hybrid fit” for general beach wear.
• Care: Hand wash in cold water and drip dry; avoid machine drying or bleach, which breaks down the elastic fibers over time.

When purchasing, note that the skin fit is designed to be tight to prevent drag in the water; if your child dislikes tight clothing, size up or opt for a loose-fit style.

This rash guard is a must-have for paddleboarding, sailing, and snorkeling in warm-to-temperate waters. It is not designed to provide thermal insulation in cold waters, where a neoprene wetsuit top would be necessary instead.

Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack

Campers need a secure, water-free zone to store dry clothes, lunch, and electronics while on the water. A reliable dry bag keeps moisture out even when sitting in a puddle at the bottom of a kayak or during a sudden rain shower. It also serves as a convenient way to isolate wet, sandy swimwear from dry items inside a larger backpack at the end of the day.

The Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack strikes the perfect balance between durability and packability, utilizing 70-denier nylon fabric with fully taped seams. The interior features a white coating that reflects light, making it incredibly easy to find small items at the bottom of the bag. Its roll-top closure secures with a heavy-duty buckle that doubles as a convenient carrying handle or attachment point.

• Material: Lightweight, PU-coated 70D nylon with a 10,000mm hydrostatic head rating.
• Sizes: Available in capacities from 1 liter up to 35 liters (a 10-liter or 13-liter size is ideal for kids).
• Usage Rule: Always roll the top closure at least three full times before buckling to ensure a watertight seal.

Remember that lightweight dry sacks are highly water-resistant but are not intended for intentional, prolonged submersion or for protecting sensitive electronics without a secondary waterproof case.

This bag is excellent for keeping extra layers, towels, and lunches dry during kayaking, sailing, or canoeing. It is not designed for scuba diving, whitewater rafting trips where gear is lashed to the exterior of a raft for hours, or as a primary flotation device.

Swim Goggles – Speedo Kids Hydrospex Classic

Chlorine irritation, saltwater sting, and wind-driven spray can quickly ruin a child’s focus during water games and swim checks. Reliable swim goggles provide clear underwater vision and protect eyes from debris, allowing campers to navigate underwater challenges with confidence. A secure fit prevents water from leaking in, eliminating the need for constant adjustments mid-session.

The Speedo Kids Hydrospex Classic is a standout choice due to its soft, one-piece silicone frame that conforms comfortably to a wide variety of youth faces. The outer eye fit provides a comfortable seal that distributes pressure evenly, preventing the soreness and red marks associated with harder plastic goggles. The anti-fog coated lenses also offer UV protection, shielding young eyes from bright surface glare.

• Sizing: Engineered specifically for growing faces aged 3 to 8 years.
• Lens: Anti-fog and UV protection properties built-in.
• Adjustment: Side clips allow for quick, secure strap adjustments that won’t slip during active swimming.

To preserve the anti-fog coating, instruct your child never to wipe or rub the inside of the lenses with their fingers or a towel; instead, rinse them gently in clean water after use.

These goggles are perfect for pool-based water camp activities, snorkeling practice, and shallow-water games. They are not suitable for deep-water diving, where a low-volume diving mask that covers the nose is required to equalize pressure.

Quick-Dry Towel – PackTowl Personal Microfiber

Traditional cotton beach towels are bulky, heavy when wet, and take hours to dry, often ending up as a damp, musty pile in a camper’s locker. A high-performance quick-dry towel packs down to the size of a water bottle and absorbs multiple times its weight in water, allowing campers to dry off quickly between sessions and pack light.

The PackTowl Personal Microfiber is the gold standard for active water sports due to its ability to absorb up to four times its weight in water while wringing out almost completely dry. The fabric is treated with Polygiene odor control, which actively inhibits the growth of musty smells even when the towel is packed away wet. Its soft, suede-like texture feels comfortable on wind-chilled skin and sheds sand with a quick shake.

• Material: 85% polyester, 15% nylon microfiber blend.
• Sizes: The “Body” or “Beach” sizes are ideal for full coverage at water camp.
• Convenience: Includes a snap loop for easy hanging on tree branches, boat rigging, or locker hooks.

Note that microfiber towels require a slightly different pat-dry technique compared to the scrubbing motion used with cotton towels, which may take young kids a day or two to get used to.

This towel is perfect for multi-sport water camps where gear space is limited and quick transitions are necessary. It is not suitable for those who prioritize the thick, plush warmth of a heavy cotton velour towel over portability and fast-drying performance.

Kids Sunscreen – Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral

Sun protection is non-negotiable when spending six to eight hours a day on open water, where UV rays reflect off wet surfaces and intensify exposure. Chemical sunscreens can sting eyes when washed out by water and often contain ingredients that damage fragile marine ecosystems. A physical, mineral-based barrier provides instant protection that stays put through heavy swimming and sweating.

Thinksport Kids SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen features a highly effective, non-nano zinc oxide formula that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It achieves the highest level of water resistance (80 minutes) under FDA guidelines, ensuring it won’t wash off immediately upon contact with water. The formula is free of biologically harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it safe for both sensitive skin and marine life.

• Active Ingredient: 20% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide.
• Water Resistance: Rated for 80 minutes of active swimming or sweating.
• Application: Applies smoothly without leaving an excessively sticky residue, though thorough rubbing is required.

Remember to apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before the child enters the sun or water, and ensure counselors help them reapply at lunchtime.

This sunscreen is ideal for all outdoor water camp participants, especially those with sensitive skin or eczema. It is not ideal for parents looking for a quick, aerosol spray-on option, as mineral creams require hands-on application to guarantee uniform coverage.

Insulated Water Bottle – Hydro Flask Kids Wide Mouth

Dehydration is a silent threat at water sports camps, where the cooling sensation of the water often masks how much a child is sweating. Warm water sitting in a plastic bottle quickly becomes unappealing, leading kids to drink less than they need. A rugged, vacuum-insulated bottle keeps water ice-cold for hours, encouraging consistent hydration throughout hot summer afternoons.

The Hydro Flask Kids Wide Mouth is engineered for active use, featuring TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours. The bottle is constructed from pro-grade 18/8 stainless steel that won’t transfer flavors or rust, and it is wrapped in a durable powder coat that prevents slipping in wet hands. The included silicone boot adds extra protection against dents when dropped on concrete docks or metal boat decks.

• Capacity: 12 or 20 ounces, perfectly sized for youth cup holders and side backpack pockets.
• Lid Type: Wide mouth straw lid for easy, spill-free sipping on the move.
• Care: The bottle and lid are dishwasher safe, though hand-washing the bottle is recommended to preserve the powder coat finish.

Be aware that the straw lid is not entirely leakproof if the straw is left in the open position; remind your camper to fold the straw down completely before stowing the bottle in their bag.

This bottle is excellent for daily use at sailing, kayaking, or beach camps where keeping drinks cold is a priority. It is not suitable for hot liquids, and it may be too heavy for backpacking trips where every ounce of gear weight matters.

Waterproof Gear Bag – Earth Pak Waterproof Duffel

Transporting wet PFDs, damp towels, and sandy water shoes back and forth from camp can quickly ruin a car’s interior and turn standard gym bags into moldy messes. A heavy-duty, waterproof gear bag acts as a reliable haul-all that keeps water from leaking out into your vehicle during the ride home. Conversely, it also protects dry backup gear from being soaked by spray while sitting on a boat deck or beach.

The Earth Pak Waterproof Duffel is constructed from 500D PVC material with welded seams, making it completely impervious to water, sand, and dust. The bag features a wide top opening for easy loading of bulky gear like life jackets, and it closes securely with a roll-top system and heavy-duty compression straps. Its padded shoulder straps can be adjusted to wear the duffel as a backpack, leaving a camper’s hands free to carry paddles or boards.

• Capacity Options: Available in 50L and 70L sizes (the 50L size is ideal for carrying a child’s complete water camp kit).
• Storage: Features interior mesh pockets for organizing small items like sunscreen, keys, and goggles.
• Durability: Thermo-welded seams ensure the bag can handle being dragged across sand, gravel, and wet docks.

Always instruct your child to shake off excess sand before packing the bag, as sand trapped inside can act as an abrasive against delicate gear during transport.

This duffel is perfect for campers who need to transport a large volume of wet gear and want to protect their car trunk from water damage. It is not suitable for campers who only need to carry a towel and a water bottle, as the bag’s structure is too large and heavy for minimal gear loads.

Floating Sunglasses – Rheos Coopers Kids Polarized

Intense glare off the water’s surface can cause eye strain, fatigue, and long-term UV damage to young, developing eyes. However, standard sunglasses are highly susceptible to sinking to the bottom of the lake or ocean the moment a camper leans over a boat or paddleboard. Floating sunglasses provide critical polarization to cut glare while ensuring the glasses remain retrievable on the surface after a wipeout.

Rheos Coopers Kids Polarized Sunglasses are made from an ultra-lightweight TPX material that naturally floats in water without the need for bulky foam straps. The lenses feature premium polarization that eliminates 99% of reflected water glare, along with dual-sided anti-scratch and oleophobic coatings that resist smudges from sunscreen and saltwater. The classic frame style is designed specifically to fit youth faces snugly without pinching behind the ears.

• Lenses: Shatterproof polycarbonate polarized lenses with 100% UV protection.
• Buoyancy: Guaranteed to float in both freshwater and saltwater.
• Fit: Designed to fit children aged 5 to 11 years.

To keep the specialized coatings in top condition, always rinse the glasses with fresh water before wiping them dry with the included microfiber pouch to avoid scratching from salt crystals.

These sunglasses are ideal for youth participating in sailing, paddling, and motorboating where surface glare is high and gear loss is common. They are not designed for high-impact contact sports or underwater swimming, where swim goggles are the appropriate choice.

How to Care for and Dry Water Camp Gear Every Night

Proper end-of-day maintenance is the secret to extending the lifespan of your child’s water camp gear and avoiding the dreaded “sour gear” smell. Saltwater, chlorine, and biological particles from lake water will rapidly degrade synthetic fabrics, rot stitching, and corrode plastic buckles if left untreated. Establish a strict rinse first rule the moment your child returns home from camp.

Empty the entire gear bag immediately and submerge life jackets, water shoes, rash guards, and goggles in a tub of clean, fresh water. Swish the items around to flush out salt crystals, sand grains, and chlorine, then hang them to dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight for drying, as prolonged UV exposure breaks down the closed-cell foam in PFDs and degrades the elasticity of rash guards.

Keep the waterproof gear bag and dry sacks open, turned inside out if possible, to allow their interiors to dry completely before the next morning. Ensure water shoes are propped open in front of a fan or breeze, as damp footwear is the primary culprit for bacterial growth and painful foot odors. This disciplined nightly routine ensures your camper starts every morning with clean, comfortable, and safe equipment.

Equipping your child with the right specialized water sports gear is the best way to ensure their camp experience is defined by confidence and fun rather than discomfort and gear failures. From highly visible PFDs to floating sunglasses, these essential items are designed to handle the rigorous demands of active days on the water. With the proper gear in hand and a solid nightly maintenance routine, your young camper will be fully prepared to make waves and master new skills all summer long.