School Camp Gear Guide Singapore: Best Guide 2026

When it comes to preparing for a school camp in Singapore, the gear list can feel overwhelming. Between the humidity, unpredictable rain, and long hours of trekking, getting the wrong equipment isn’t just uncomfortable: it can turn what should be a memorable adventure into a miserable experience.

Here’s the thing: most students (and parents!) make the same mistakes. They pack too much, choose the wrong shoes, forget about rain protection, or grab a sleeping bag that turns into a sauna. This guide breaks down every essential piece of hiking gear, explains why it matters, shows you the different options available, and only then points you to proven Shopee picks that won’t let you down.

Hiking Backpacks: Your Mobile Base Camp

The scenario: You’re three hours into a hike, and your shoulders are screaming. Your friend’s bag keeps sliding off, and another classmate’s cheap zipper just burst open. Sound familiar?

A backpack isn’t just storage: it’s your mobile command centre. The wrong one causes back pain, chafing, and makes everything harder to access when you need it quickly.

Types to Know

• Daypacks (20-35L): Perfect for shorter day hikes or camps where you don’t need to carry sleeping gear. Lighter, simpler, great for younger students.
• Trekking Packs (40-70L): For overnight camps or longer expeditions. More compartments, better weight distribution, padded hip belts.

What to Look For

• Padded, breathable shoulder straps (mesh backing is a lifesaver in Singapore’s heat)
• Chest and waist straps to distribute weight off your shoulders
• Water-resistant material or a separate rain cover
• Multiple compartments so you’re not digging for your water bottle at the bottom

Pro tip: Don’t buy based on looks alone. Have your child try it on loaded with books to simulate weight before committing.

Our Shopee Picks

• 【SG Stock】50L/70L Military Large Backpack – Waterproof, rugged, 2k+ sold. Great for overnight camps.
• P&D Tactical Backpack 35L – Lightweight at 35L, perfect for day hikes. 1k+ sales.
• Rain Cover for Backpacks (20L-80L) – Essential add-on. Hooks right onto your bag with a carabiner.

Footwear: The Foundation of Every Good Hike

The scenario: Halfway through the trail, someone’s wearing canvas sneakers. They’re slipping on wet rocks, nursing blisters, and holding up the entire group. Don’t be that person.

Your feet carry you everywhere. Wrong shoes mean blisters, twisted ankles, and soggy misery.

Types to Know

• Trail Runners/Light Hikers: Breathable, flexible, good grip. Ideal for most Singapore school camps on well-maintained trails.
• Hiking Boots: Ankle support, sturdier construction. Better for rough terrain or overnight treks with heavier packs.
• Water Shoes/Sandals: Quick-drying, non-slip. Perfect for river crossings, beach activities, or wet conditions.

What to Look For

• Good grip/traction on the sole (check the tread pattern)
• Quick-dry materials if expecting wet conditions
• Proper fit: Not too tight, not too loose. Always try with hiking socks.
• Ankle support if carrying heavy loads or hiking uneven terrain

Pro tip: Never wear brand-new shoes on camp day. Break them in with at least 2-3 walks beforehand to avoid blisters.

Our Shopee Picks

• Outdoor Peak Hiking Shoes – $29.16, lightweight, works for most school camps.
• Army Tactical Outdoor Boots – $13.92, budget-friendly, tough sole for rugged trails.
• KEEN Newport H2 Sandals – $28.34, 215 sold. Ideal for wet activities and stream crossings.

Clothing: Shirts & Pants That Actually Work

The scenario: Cotton t-shirts soak up sweat and stay wet for hours. Jeans are heavy, restrictive, and take forever to dry. Both are recipes for chafing and discomfort on the trail.

What Works (and What Doesn’t)

Shirts:

• Choose quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabrics (polyester blends, not cotton)
• UV-protective long sleeves shield from sunburn without overheating
• Loose fits allow airflow; avoid anything too tight

Pants:

• Lightweight track pants or hiking pants beat jeans every time
• Look for stretch fabric for movement
• Convertible pants (zip-off legs) give flexibility for changing weather

Pro tip: Pack one extra set of clothes in a waterproof bag inside your backpack. If everything gets soaked, you’ll thank yourself later.

Our Shopee Picks

• Muuv-It Ice Silk Sunscreen Sport Shirt – $11.25, 4k+ sold. Quick-dry, UV protection, unisex.
• Kid Sport Long Pants – $4.32, simple school-approved tracksuit pants.

Sleeping Gear: Don’t Underestimate a Good Night’s Rest

The scenario: It’s 2am. The ground is hard and cold. Your sleeping bag is either too hot or too thin. You’re exhausted for tomorrow’s activities. Sleep quality makes or breaks your camp experience.

Types to Know

• Sleeping Bags: Envelope-style bags are common for local camps: easy to get in/out, good ventilation. Mummy bags are warmer but overkill for Singapore’s climate.
• Sleeping Mats/Pads: Insulation from the ground (surprisingly cold at night), cushioning for comfort. Inflatable mats pack small; foam mats are bulkier but more durable.

What to Look For

• Temperature rating: For Singapore, lightweight summer bags work fine. Don’t buy arctic-rated bags.
• Packability: Can it compress small enough to fit in your backpack?
• Mat thickness: Thicker = more comfort, but also more weight. Balance based on your trip.

Pro tip: If the camp provides tents, focus your budget on a good sleeping pad: ground comfort matters more than most people realise.

Our Shopee Picks

• 【SG STOCK】Outdoor Sleeping Bag – $7.76, 4k+ sold. Bestseller for a reason.
• Sleeping Bag with FREE Pillow – $12.50, 1k+ sales. Great value bundle.
• Camping Mat with Built-in Foot Pump – $9.60, inflates easily without blowing. 215 sold.

Lighting: Because Darkness Comes Fast

The scenario: Nature calls at 3am. You’re fumbling for your phone flashlight, blinding your tent-mates, and tripping over guy ropes. A proper light source isn’t optional: it’s essential.

Types to Know

• Headlamps: Hands-free, perfect for cooking, hiking, or navigating at night. The go-to choice.
• Flashlights: Brighter, longer range. Good backup, but less practical when you need both hands.
• Tent Lights: Ambient lighting for inside the tent. Solar-powered options are great for multi-day camps.

What to Look For

• Rechargeable batteries (USB charging is convenient)
• Water resistance for unexpected rain
• Adjustable brightness to save battery

Our Shopee Picks

• HIGH POWER Rechargeable Headlamp – $3.16, 1k+ sold. Keeps both hands free.
• Rechargeable LED Flashlight – $4.77, 2k+ sold. Compact backup light.
• Solar Camping LED Light Bulb – $3.30, waterproof, hangs inside tents.

Towels & Toiletries: The Overlooked Essentials

Smart Choices

• Microfiber/quick-dry towels: Lightweight, compact, dry in hours instead of days
• Hanging toiletry bags: Keep everything organised and accessible
• Travel-sized containers: Decant products rather than bringing full bottles

Our Shopee Picks

• Naturehike Quick Drying Towel – $5.56, 468 sold. Compact and fast-drying.
• GEESO Travel Toiletry Bag – $4.29, 2k+ sold. Waterproof with hanging hook.
• 16-Pack Travel Bottles Set (TSA Approved) – $12.96, leak-proof silicone containers.

Rain Protection: Singapore Weather Is Unpredictable

The scenario: A sudden downpour hits. Students without rain gear are soaked through, shivering, and miserable for hours. Those with proper protection? Barely inconvenienced.

Your Options

• Raincoats (jacket + pants set): Full coverage, stays put during activity
• Ponchos: Quick to throw on, covers backpack too, but can be awkward during active hiking
• Compact umbrellas: Good for light rain at base camp, impractical on trails

Our Shopee Picks

• Adult Waterproof Raincoat Set (Top + Pants) – $11.62, 4k+ sold. Reflective, full protection.
• Thickened Reusable EVA Rain Coat – $2.39, 4k+ sold. Budget-friendly backup.
• Foldable UV Automatic Umbrella – $3.34, 10k+ sold. For base camp use.

Final Gear Checklist

Before you head out, run through this quick checklist:

• ✅ Backpack (with rain cover)
• ✅ Proper hiking shoes (broken in!)
• ✅ Quick-dry shirt and pants
• ✅ Sleeping bag and mat
• ✅ Headlamp or flashlight
• ✅ Quick-dry towel
• ✅ Toiletry organiser
• ✅ Rain protection

Label everything. Gear gets mixed up constantly at school camps. A permanent marker on tags saves headaches.

With the right preparation, your school camp transforms from a survival exercise into a genuine adventure. Invest in gear that works, break it in before you go, and you’ll be ready for whatever the trail throws at you.