27 Essential Items for a Unique Orientation Camp Experience

I acknowledge the anticipation and excitement surrounding the preparation for the orientation camp, which is indeed a positive feeling. However, you might find yourself unsure about the essential items required for day-to-day activities during your time at the camp.

This article aims to address the necessary items crucial for ensuring your comfort during the orientation camp. While these items are available for purchase within the camp premises, they often come at inflated prices. Therefore, I strongly recommend acquiring as much as possible from home to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Previously, I provided information on the compulsory documents for NYSC camp registration. It would be prudent to familiarize yourself with this information to avoid any unforeseen complications.

With that said, the list below currently comprises 27 essential items. It is important to note that obtaining every item is not mandatory; so prioritize acquiring those that are most essential to you.

For convenience, I highly recommend reaching out to Lady Fola via WhatsApp. She is a reliable vendor who offers a comprehensive package containing the most needed items. This will streamline the process for you, and save you the stress of having to get them one by one.

Now, let’s discuss the list one by one.

White Round-Neck T-Shirts and Shorts

These are essential outfits for camp. Although NYSC provides two pairs each, they are usually of inferior quality. To maintain a smart appearance during your stay, I strongly recommend purchasing at least two higher-quality pieces from home.

White Sneakers/Tennis Shoes

These are part of the camp dress code. While NYSC provides customized tennis shoes, they are of poor quality also. For easier maintenance, consider purchasing rubber shoes which are popular among corps members.

📌 Bonus Tip: Message me on Whatsapp to process your medical fitness certificate which is a compulsory requirement for camp registration.

White Socks

While you will receive two pairs in camp, I recommend acquiring extra NYSC crested socks for added comfort.

Waist Pouch

Waist pouch or bag is necessary for carrying money, phones, and other valuables during parades and outdoor activities.

Cutleries

You need a food flask for collecting food in the camp kitchen during meals. Additionally, you will need a cup and spoon for eating, so acquire them from home.

Water Bottle

Consider getting a water bottle that you can fill with sachet water always. This is more cost-friendly than having to buy bottled water every time. Fun fact: some guys also fill this with alcohol which they sip on parade grounds and during lectures.

Edible Provisions

While the camp food will most likely fall short of your expectations, it is advisable to take some provisions along to camp. Beverages, snacks, garri, and other edibles will come in handy.

Cosmetics

If you have specific preferences for body creams, ensure to bring your preferred brand. Additionally, include body spray and perfumes for personal grooming.

Toiletries

Bring essentials such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, tissues, bathing soap, sponge, hypo bleach, and detergent for personal hygiene and laundry needs.

Bucket

You need this and a bailer bowl for bathing and washing clothes. Unless you’re going to camp with your private car, I don’t advise buying this from home.

Mosquito Net

To prevent malaria, bring a mosquito net along with ropes for hanging it. This can also serve to demarcate personal space.

Mufti Clothes

Limit colored clothes to two pairs, as there may be limited opportunities to wear them. You can also take along your traditional attire to represent your tribe on carnival day.

Basic Drugs

Include medications like paracetamol, allergy relief, menstrual pain relief, antibiotics, etc. as camp clinics may have inadequate supplies.

Handkerchiefs / Face Towels

The sun is harsh in some states hence you need clean handkerchiefs to mop your brows and sweat.

Rubber Slippers

Bathroom slippers or crocs are useful for bathing and providing your feet with ventilation during relaxation periods.

Sunscreen

Skin protecting products like gel, lotions, and the likes are recommended for sun protection, particularly for those concerned about skin health.

Marker

You’ll need it to indicate your state code on your belongings. As part of the essential items, permanent markers are needed to ensure your properties are not easily stolen.

Power Bank

This is very important for ensuring mobile devices remain charged throughout camp activities. There will be interesting moments you want to capture in camp and you don’t want your device to disappoint as a result of power.

Sanitary Pads/Tampons

Ladies should prepare in advance for menstruation, as these items may be expensive in camp.

Padlock

Necessary for securing belongings to prevent theft. I know someone who lost more than 5 items including his two phones – like he’s the only one in camp.

Money

I don’t need to tell you why you need money because we all do. But you will even be needing more of it at the orientation camp if you want to enjoy your stay there. I wrote an article about how much is needed for camp and I strongly recommend that you read it.

Other essential items you might want to consider are:

• Antiseptic/disinfectants
• Bed sheets, blanket, pillow
• White cardigan
• Pen, Jotter
• Aboniki (balm)
• Pegs/Hangers

Prohibited Items at NYSC Orientation Camp

These items are not allowed in camp so you shouldn’t bother going with them. I find it important to include this as most PCMs always want to go to camp with their laptops.

• Televisions
• Laptops
• Pets/Animals
• Pressing Iron
• Boiling ring
• Mattress/Foam
• Extension Sockets
• Knives
• Gas Cylinder

In conclusion, thorough preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience during your time at the orientation camp. By acquiring the above essential items from home and familiarizing yourself with the required documentation, you can minimize unnecessary expenses and potential complications.

Remember to prioritize the most crucial items from the list provided, and consider reaching out to Lady Fola for easy purchase.

Don’t forget to join our official NYSC Whatsapp group so you don’t miss out on helpful tips and observations from other PCMs.