Your child should bring basketball shoes, gym clothes, a water bottle, snacks, sunscreen, and a great attitude. These basics help them stay safe, stay fueled, and stay ready to learn. The right items also keep the day smooth so they can focus on fun, new skills, and time with coaches and teammates.
San Mateo basketball camp days can be long and active. Kids move a lot, run drills, and play short games. Good prep helps them stay strong through the day. This guide breaks down what to pack, why it matters, and how to help your child feel calm, steady, and ready. If your child also plans to attend Basketball tryouts near San Mateo, the items in this list will help them there too.
Shoes Built for Basketball
Basketball shoes matter more than many parents think. They give support for quick side steps, stops, and fast cuts. Running shoes do not give the same support for these moves. A good pair of basketball shoes helps lower the chance of rolled ankles. Make sure the shoes are broken in before camp. New shoes can rub and cause pain, which makes it hard to focus.
If your child does not have basketball shoes yet, simple mid-top or high-top styles are fine. They do not need fancy gear. Comfort is key.
Light, Breathable Gym Clothes
Your child should wear shorts and a shirt that dries fast. Kids sweat a lot while they run drills. Heavy shirts cling to the body and feel uncomfortable. Pack an extra shirt in the bag so they can change if needed.
Some camps provide jerseys. If so, ask if they need to wear a base shirt under it. Make sure all clothes have your child’s name on the tag.
A Large Water Bottle
Hydration is crucial. Kids forget to drink enough during intense drills. A large bottle helps avoid headaches, cramps, or fatigue. Write your child’s name on the bottle with a marker. Choose one that they can open and close fast so they do not waste break time.
If your child likes cold water, freeze half the bottle the night before, then fill the rest before camp. It will stay cool for hours.
Healthy Snacks
Most San Mateo basketball camp programs include breaks for snacks. Pack foods that give steady energy such as:
- Fruit
- Yogurt
- Granola bars
- Nuts
- Simple sandwiches
Avoid snacks high in sugar. They can cause quick spikes and drops in energy. A balanced snack keeps your child steady through drills and games.
Sunscreen and Sun Protection
Some camps use outdoor courts. Even morning sessions can get warm. Sunscreen helps avoid sunburn, which can make the rest of the day rough. Apply sunscreen before camp and pack a small bottle so your child can reapply. A light hat may help while they wait on the sidelines, but they must remove it during drills.
A Small Towel
Sweat builds up fast during drills. A small towel helps your child stay dry and comfortable. It also helps keep hands dry so the ball does not slip. This small item makes a big difference through a long, active day.
A Basketball (If the Camp Requests It)
Some camps ask kids to bring their own ball. Others supply balls for the group. Check your camp’s instructions. If your child brings a ball, write their name on it using a marker. A size 5 ball works for younger kids, and a size 6 ball works for most middle-schoolers.
A Bag That’s Easy to Carry
A simple backpack works great. You do not need a large sports bag. A backpack holds clothes, snacks, a towel, and a water bottle with no trouble. Make sure it zips well and has pockets to keep things organized.
A Light Hoodie or Sweatshirt
San Mateo mornings can be cool. Your child may warm up fast once drills begin, but it helps to have something warm for the start of the day or rest breaks. A hoodie is fine and fits easily in a backpack.
Personal Items Your Child Needs
If your child needs an inhaler, allergy medicine, or other medical items, pack them in a safe spot in the backpack. Tell the coach where they are so the coach can help if needed. Add your phone number inside the bag in case anything gets misplaced.
What Not to Bring
Kids often want to bring extras, but some items only distract them. Leave these at home:
- Expensive tech
- Handheld games
- Big stuffed toys
- Jewelry
- Large amounts of money
Camp works best when kids stay focused on the court, not on items that may get lost.
Encourage a Ready Mindset
One of the best things your child can bring is a calm, open mind. Tell them they do not need to be perfect. Camps help kids grow. They teach skills step by step. Coaches love kids who try hard, listen, ask questions, and treat others with respect.
Many kids who join San Mateo basketball camp later join Basketball tryouts near San Mateo. The mindset they build at camp helps them at tryouts too.
Check the Camp’s Daily Schedule
Every camp runs a little different. Some include long breaks. Others move fast with short pauses. Look at the schedule so you know how much food, water, and gear to pack. If the camp runs all day, pack more snacks. If the sessions are short, pack light.
Label Everything
Kids lose things easily, especially during fast transitions. A name on each item saves time and lowers stress. Use a marker, tape, or washable labels. This small step solves one of the most common camp issues.
Talk to Your Child Each Day After Camp
Ask what they enjoyed, what felt hard, and what they want to bring the next day. Your child may notice small needs you did not think of. Adjust the bag daily so they feel ready and comfortable.
Final Thoughts
Packing for San Mateo basketball camp does not need to be hard. Focus on comfort, safety, and steady energy. Shoes, clothes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and simple gear keep your child prepared for active days on the court. With the right items, your child can learn, grow, and have a great time.
If your child later heads to Basketball tryouts near San Mateo, the habits they build here will help them feel steady and ready.
Team Elite Basketball
405 El Camino Real ste 409, Menlo Park, CA 94025
(650) 547-9103
