Summer Camp Prep Checklist
A complete, step-by-step checklist to do before your child leaves for camp. Check hair, pack right, and head into the season with confidence.
Prevention Starts Before Drop-Off
One of the most effective things a parent can do is check their child's hair before camp begins. If lice are present and go undetected, they can spread to an entire cabin within a few days — creating a much bigger problem for your family and the camp community.
This checklist takes less than 10 minutes and covers everything you need to do before your child gets on that bus. It was built by Pete the Lice Guy, who has handled over 13,000 lice cases and knows exactly what families miss before camp season.
The goal is simple: send your child to camp with a clean head and the right tools, so if lice do show up, you're already prepared to act fast.
Complete Before Drop-Off Day
Click each item to mark it complete. Your progress is tracked automatically.
Lice-Prevention Packing List
These items help prevent lice and make treatment easier if needed. Label everything with your child's name.
Fine-Tooth Nit Comb
The single most important tool. A quality nit comb allows thorough checking and is the primary method of removal.
Personal Hairbrush & Comb
Label these clearly. Never share brushes or combs — it's the fastest way for lice to transfer between campers.
Hair Ties & Clips
Enough for the full session. Keeping long hair tied back daily is one of the most effective prevention strategies.
Enzyme/Repellent Spray
Pete recommends a natural enzyme-based spray applied daily. It acts as a deterrent and makes the hair easier to comb through.
Labeled Pillowcase
A labeled, personal pillowcase that stays with your child's bunk reduces the chance of cross-contact during sleep.
This Toolkit on Your Phone
Bookmark the Simplicety summer camp hub so you have Pete's checking guide and action plan available instantly if needed.
Prevention Tips That Actually Work
After 13,000+ cases, Pete knows exactly what works — and what's a waste of time.
Head-to-head contact is the #1 risk
Lice cannot jump or fly. The only way they spread is direct scalp-to-scalp contact. Selfies, sleepovers, and huddles during games are the biggest risk moments at camp.
Buns and braids are your best friend
Any hairstyle that keeps hair off the shoulders and away from other heads significantly reduces exposure. Braids, tight buns, and ponytails all work well for camp.
Shared helmets are low-risk
Despite common belief, helmets and hats are rarely a vector for lice because lice don't survive long off the scalp. Head-to-head contact is far more likely.
You don't need to panic or clean the whole house
If lice are found, focus on the head — not the furniture. Washing pillowcases in hot water is enough for the home environment. Save your energy for the treatment.
Check again the day they return from camp
Even after a clear pre-camp check, do a follow-up inspection the day your child comes home. Catching anything early means a much easier treatment process.
The nit comb does the real work
Over-the-counter shampoos kill live lice but not nits. Manual removal with a quality nit comb is the only method that truly resolves an infestation completely.
Ready to Go? You're All Set.
If everything checked out, great — enjoy camp season. If you found lice, don't panic. Pete's Action Plan walks you through exactly what to do next.