School Supplies SG

School Camp Guide

Most Singapore students go on at least two school camps: a Primary 5 Outdoor Adventure Camp and a Secondary 3 Outward Bound (OBS) or MOELC camp. Camps usually run for 3 to 5 days and combine adventure activities with team challenges. Here's what to expect and how to pack.

Outward Bound Singapore (OBS)

OBS runs the mandatory 5-day Sec 3 cohort camp on Pulau Ubin, plus shorter 3D2N programmes for selected schools and youth groups. Expect kayaking, trekking, rock climbing, high elements and a solo overnight. Phones are collected — your child will be off-grid the entire camp. Briefings, kit lists and pickup times are sent by the school 2-3 weeks before.

MOE Outdoor Adventure Learning Centres (MOELC)

MOELC operates two residential centres — Dairy Farm and Changi — used mainly by primary schools and lower secondary classes for 2D1N or 3D2N camps. Activities are tamer than OBS (low elements, orienteering, team-building) but the packing list is similar. Some primaries also run day-only adventure camps at these centres without the overnight stay.

Essential Packing List

Always cross-check against the school's official list — schools sometimes restrict aerosols, electronics or specific footwear.

Sleep & Shelter

Clothing & Footwear

Hygiene

Safety

Misc

Tips from Camp Veterans

  • Label every item with your child's name and class — camp lost-and-found piles are huge.
  • Wear new shoes in for at least a week before camp. Blisters on Day 1 = misery for the rest.
  • Ziplock everything: phone, documents, plasters. Singapore weather is unpredictable.
  • Pack heavy items (water, shoes) at the bottom of the backpack, light items at the top.
  • Throw in 2-3 extra ziplock or plastic bags for wet clothes — campers always need more than they expect.