Headed to Texas Girls State? Here’s your packing list!

The countdown to Texas Girls State is almost complete! Not sure what to pack?

Check out our list below:

• Clothes for hot summer weather – Pack enough for 7 days since there’s no access to laundry. Think: comfy shoes, summer dresses, shorts, PJs, and flip flops or shower shoes. (Heads up: cropped tops aren’t allowed.)

• A few nicer outfits – Bring 2–3 dresses or business casual looks for special events like guest speakers or our trip to the State Capitol. If you like your clothes on hangers, feel free to bring a few.

• Party Day shirts – Red and blue tees are available at the Girls State Store, but feel free to bring one of each if you already have them.

• Something warm + rain gear – Some buildings get chilly, so pack a lightweight jacket, sweater, or sweatshirt. Also good to have a raincoat, poncho, or umbrella—just in case. Sweatshirts, long sleeve shirts, and panchos will also be available for purchase in the Girls State store.

• Workout gear – There’s optional time for exercise in the mornings, so bring workout clothes and sneakers. (There are no other sports or athletic events during the week.)

• Toiletries – Bring everything you need like handsoap, body wash, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, sunscreen, bug spray, feminine hygiene products, hairdryer, etc. These are not provided.

• Medicine – Any over-the-counter meds you take regularly.

• Snacks – While some snacks are sold at the Girls State Store, you might want to bring your own for the dorm (protein bars, chips, candy, Gatorade, etc.). FYI: there are no fridges in the dorms.

• Bedding + towels – You’ll need a pillow, pillowcase, Twin XL sheets or a sleeping bag, blanket, and bath towels and washcloths.

• Bag + water bottle – A backpack or tote bag will be super useful.

• Stuff for taking notes – Paper, pens, highlighters, sticky notes—whatever you like to use.

• Speech resources – If you have favorite quote books or materials that help with writing speeches, bring them along.

• Campaign materials – If you want to make election signs or posters, bring blank poster board, butcher/construction paper, or markers. The Girls State store will have some of these available for purchase. You cannot bring or use pre-made campaign materials.

• Entertainment – Planning to audition for the talent show? Bring any costumes, small instruments, music, or other things you’ll need. Trumpeters may be needed for reveille and taps—bring your trumpet if you're interested!

• Spending money – You might want some spending money for the Girls State Store (they sell t-shirts, sweatshirts, toiletries, snacks, campaign supplies, graduation cords, etc.). Cards are accepted!

We’re thrilled to have you and we’ll see you soon!