The Ultimate NYSC Camp Checklist (2025): 30 Things You Must Pack

Your call-up letter has arrived. The mix of excitement, anxiety, and a thousand questions is overwhelming. But amidst it all, one very practical challenge stands out: What on earth do I pack for three weeks at the NYSC orientation camp?

Packing for camp is not like packing for a holiday. It's a unique experience that requires specific documents, clothing, and items to make your life easier and safer. Forgetting a crucial document can lead to a registration nightmare, while forgetting a simple item like a power bank can make your stay frustrating.

This is your ultimate, no-nonsense checklist, built from the experience of thousands of past corps members. Read it carefully, pack smartly, and walk into camp fully prepared.

Category 1: Essential Documents (The Non-Negotiables)

This is the most important category. If you forget anything here, you will face serious registration issues. Get a waterproof file to keep them all safe.

• 1. Your Call-Up Letter: This is your golden ticket. Do NOT laminate it. Print the original and make 4-5 photocopies.

• 2. Your Statement of Result: The original from your institution and 4-5 photocopies.

• 3. Your School ID Card: The original and a few photocopies.

• 4. Green Card: This is your registration slip. Print it and make 4-5 photocopies.

• 5. Passport Photographs: Take at least 8-10 recent passport photos with a white or off-white background. You'll need them for everything.

• 6. Medical Certificate of Fitness: You need a proper medical certificate from a government or military hospital. Make a few photocopies.

• 7. COVID-19 Test Slip: (If still required) Check the NYSC portal for the latest guidelines on this.

Category 2: Camp Kit & Clothing

This is your daily uniform and essentials for camp life.

• 8. Plain White T-Shirts: The NYSC will give you two, but they are often low quality. Bring 3-4 of your own round-neck white t-shirts.

• 9. White Shorts: Bring 2-3 pairs of plain white shorts. They are your primary attire.

• 10. White Tennis Shoes & Socks: A pair of plain white sneakers is mandatory. Pack at least 3 pairs of white socks.

• 11. Bed Sheets, Pillow, & Pillowcase: The camp mattresses are often old and bare. Bring your own bedding. A light blanket is also a good idea.

• 12. Mosquito Net: This is a lifesaver. Camp dormitories are notorious for mosquitos.

• 13. Towel: Bring one or two personal towels.

• 14. Casual Wear: For evenings after parade, Sundays, and social events. Don't bring anything too fancy.

• 15. Slippers: For use in the bathroom and around the hostel.

Category 3: Personal Items & Toiletries

These are the items for your health, hygiene, and comfort.

• 16. Padlocks: You will need one for your main luggage and a smaller one for your waist pouch or bag.

• 17. Waist Pouch or Small Bag: Essential for carrying your phone, cash, and ID card around camp safely.

• 18. Power Bank: This is arguably the most important electronic item. Charging points are scarce and crowded. A high-capacity power bank is your best friend.

• 19. Basic Medicines: Painkillers (like Paracetamol), anti-malaria pills, plasters, and any personal medication you require. Also, pack a small bottle of antiseptic (like Dettol).

• 20. Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, sponge, deodorant, toilet paper, sanitary pads/tampons, etc.

• 21. Bucket and Bailer: You can buy this in the camp market ("Mami Market"), but bringing your own can save you money.

• 22. Hand Sanitizer & Face Masks.

• 23. Insect Repellent.

Category 4: Money & Miscellaneous

• 24. Cash: Bring enough cash (e.g., ₦20,000 - ₦30,000) for your initial expenses in the Mami Market before you get your first allowance. Don't keep it all in one place.

• 25. ATM Card: Keep this safe. You will need it for the rest of your service year.

• 26. Simple Torchlight: For navigating the hostel when the lights go out.

• 27. Pen and Notepad: For taking notes during lectures.

• 28. Food & Provisions: Biscuits, garri, sugar, milk, etc., for when you don't like the camp food or need a late-night snack.

What NOT to Bring to Camp

• 29. Laptops: It's a major security risk and you will have almost no time or use for it.

• 30. Expensive Items: Leave expensive jewelry, watches, and gadgets at home.

Packing for camp is your first official assignment as a corps member. By following this checklist, you are not just packing a bag; you are preparing for a successful and stress-free orientation experience. Welcome to the life of a 'corper'!