May 29, 2026

Essential camping guide: don't forget anything

Niños en el Fantastic Camp de Compañía Fantástica Mini, campamento de verano infantil

Summer camp is one of those experiences kids remember their whole lives. And to make sure everything goes well, there's one part that's up to you: making sure they're well-equipped. This guide is our list from Älva — practical, no-frills, with products we carry in-store and trust.

Save it, send it to whoever needs it, and check it off as you pack your bag. 🏕️


👕 Clothing — The Foundation of Everything

For camp, clothing needs to be comfortable, durable, and easy to mix and match. At Älva, we opt for loose-fitting t-shirts and colorful shorts that offer a thousand cheerful combinations — so even if the child ends up mixing and matching clothes their own way, everything still goes together. And a sweatshirt always comes in handy: for when it gets chilly, for air conditioning, or simply because they love to wear it.

✅ Loose-fitting t-shirts in colors and patterns ✅ Comfortable and durable shorts ✅ Sweatshirt — always useful


🎒 Backpack — The Inseparable Companion

A good backpack changes everything. It needs to be lightweight, easy to carry, and have enough space without being enormous. At Älva, we have backpacks from A Little Lovely Company, Hello Hossy, Engel, and Barts — from the smallest ones for the first camps to those that can handle a teenager with everything inside.

✅ Lightweight and ergonomic backpack ✅ Well-organized pockets ✅ Something they like — if they choose it, they'll take care of it


💧 Water Bottle — Hydration with No Excuses

The water bottle is one of those items that counselors appreciate being well-chosen. Insulated, leak-proof, and with the type of spout the child can use on their own. We have Cool Bottles in different capacities and spout types — for every age and preference.

✅ Insulated bottle with an easy spout ✅ Capacity according to age (350ml for small children, 500ml or more for older children) ✅ Labeled with their name — always


🥪 Lunchbox and Snack Bag

For excursions, snacks, and outdoor activities. A lunchbox that won't squish their sandwich and an insulated bag to keep food fresh. At Älva, we have options for all tastes.

✅ Durable lunchbox with secure closure ✅ Bag for sandwiches and snacks ✅ Reusable cutlery if the camp requests it


🧢 Cap or Hat — The Sun Shows No Mercy

Essential and often the first thing to get lost. Pack two if you can. At Älva, you'll find caps and sun hats in fun designs that kids actually want to wear — which is half the battle.

✅ Cap or hat with sun protection ✅ Better two — one always disappears


🎽 Fanny Pack — The Great Little Secret

This is one of those products that parents discover and can't believe they hadn't thought of before. A fanny pack is perfect for children to keep their most important items with them at all times: dental appliance, glasses, inhaler, tissues, pocket money. It stays on their body, doesn't get lost, and gives them autonomy. At Älva, we have them in styles for all ages.

✅ Fanny pack for essential personal items ✅ Ideal for dental appliances, glasses, inhalers ✅ Teaches them to be responsible for their belongings


The Complete List at a Glance

☐ Colorful t-shirts and shorts

☐ Sweatshirt for cool weather

☐ Lightweight backpack

☐ Insulated water bottle with name

☐ Lunchbox and snack bag

☐ Sun cap or hat (x2)

☐ Fanny pack for personal items


Have questions or need help choosing?

At Älva, we've been equipping children from Malasaña and beyond for almost twenty years. Stop by the store at Calle San Andrés, 17 or write to us — we'll help you prepare for the perfect camp.

Photos: Fantastic Camp 2026, the summer camp of Compañía Fantástica Mini.