Well, it is August and guess what that means? It is band camp season. All kids and teens are getting ready to go off to band camp for their school's marching band. This is the time where all students, other than the freshmen, dread. It is hot, and they are outside for hours on end with little water breaks. Below are major necessities that will help you survive band camp. Freshmen should take note because it is your first camp experience.

1. Sunscreen

This is very crucial. You do not want to be caught without out sunscreen, especially if you are going to be marching for hours in the blazing sun. It is a great way to ruin your skin cells and develop skin cancer. So just remember SPF is your BFF; your band director will agree with this statement. We do not want you to come back from camp looking like over cooked bacon and having to go back to school like that.

2. Hats

Well, since we are on the topic of being outside and trying to prevent skin cancer, I would recommend wearing a hat. This provides the head with extra shade, which can block out the sun and keep you cool. The wider the brim, the better it is for protection. Something like a sun hat, mountain hat or those baseball caps with the flaps in the back.

3. Appropriate clothing

I know it is going to be hot, but you have to wear appropriate clothing. Shorts and a T-shirt when you are outside is essential to prevent heat stroke. With the shoes, you cannot wear flip-flops or anything with heels. Flats are the way to go, and wear loose clothing so it is comfortable to march in. I do not think you would want to be marching in hot weather with chafed legs.

4. Flip Folder

Where are you going to put your music? How are you going to play the tune in the first week of camp? Do you often lose music easily? if you said yes to any of these questions you need a flip folder. It gives you a place to store your music. Also, it can attach to your instrument with the help of a lyre, which can help both with memorizing your music and when you are marching, you can look at the music.

5. Instrument

Nothing says that you are unprepared for band camp like coming without your instrument. That is the point of band camp in the first place. Going to camp without your instrument is a death sentence. You might as well stay home. Every instrument counts in a marching band, so bring it unless you want to get harped on by the band director.

6. Water

You would not survive camp without being hydrated. Those who have experienced camp before know that water breaks every hour are extremely important. With sunny days comes dehydration. Especially, with the director always wanting to do one more set before the break that turns into four more sets then another half an hour goes by. Then, the director says it is break time. Water should be treated like money because camp is cruel.