Summer Camp vs. Summer Abroad? How to Know Which One Is Right for Your Teen

Summer is a time for adventure, growth, and exploration. For many parents, the challenge isn’t deciding if their teen should participate in an enriching summer activity but rather which program will provide the best experience.  

Traditional summer camps for high school students—whether day camps or sleepaway camps—offer structured activities, social opportunities, and personal development. Meanwhile, a high school summer abroad program take experiential learning to the next level, immersing teens in new cultures, languages, and real-world experiences that can shape their futures in profound ways. 

With so many options available, how can you determine the best fit for your teen? The key lies in asking the right questions. By considering factors like your teen’s independence level, interests, college prep, and cost, you can confidently choose the experience that will benefit them most. 

Let’s dive into the key questions that will help you determine whether summer camp or summer abroad is the right choice for your teen. 

1. What’s Your Teen’s Independence Level? 

Every teen has a different comfort level when it comes to independence, and understanding where your teen falls on this spectrum can help you decide the best way for them to spend their summer. 

• Day Camps: Best suited for teens who thrive on routine and structure but still prefer the familiarity of home at night. These programs allow teens to engage in social and learning activities without requiring long-term separation. 
• Sleepaway Camps: A great middle-ground for teens ready to take their first steps toward independence. These camps provide a structured environment where they can experience living away from home for a week or more.  
• Summer Abroad: Designed for teens who are eager to embrace new challenges and immerse themselves in unfamiliar settings. These programs encourage independence by requiring teens to navigate different cultures and build problem-solving skills in a global environment. If your teen is ready for sleepaway camp, they may also be ready to travel abroad as it requires a similar level of independence and can be a healthy challenge.  

How Comfortable Are You With Time Apart? 

As a parent, it's also important to consider your own comfort level. Not only might your teen get homesick, but you will surely miss them, and having them away will be an adjustment to your routine. Honestly consider this as a part of your bigger decision-making. For some parents, a teenager is simply too young to spend multiple nights away from home, while for other families, it might feel completely doable.  

Are High School Summer Abroad Programs Safe? 

Even if your teen is highly independent, it’s natural to feel hesitant about sending them to a foreign country. However, reputable organizations like CIEE prioritize safety with trained on-site staff, 24/7 support, emergency protocols, and risk management strategies. Read more about CIEE’s safety measures. 

2. What Are Your Teen’s Interests? 

Your teen’s passions and goals play a major role in choosing the right summer experience. Both summer camps for high school students and high school summer abroad programs offer a variety of themes, but the depth and scope of these experiences can differ greatly. 

• Day Camps & Sleepaway Camps: Many offer specialized programs in areas like sports, arts, STEM, and leadership. These are great for teens looking to build skills in a structured environment close to home. 
• Summer Abroad: Provides immersive experiences that go beyond the traditional camp setting. Whether it’s learning a new language in a country where it’s spoken, studying literature in historic European cities, or diving into hands-on environmental conservation efforts with professionals in the field, these programs offer unparalleled real-world learning. Programs like CIEE High School Summer Abroad (which can be considered an international summer camp for U.S. high school students) offer a range of subject-focused experiences that integrate cultural exploration with academic enrichment. 

If your teen is curious about the world and has a clear passion for languages or another field of interest, a high school summer abroad provides an incredible opportunity to deepen their knowledge. The sheer amount of learning and personal growth that happens through just a few weeks of international travel is unmatched, making it a transformative experience unlike any other. 

3. What About College Prep? How Different Summer Experiences Can Help with College Admissions 

Colleges don’t just look at grades—assessing a teen’s experiences and skills outside of the classroom is an essential component of the admissions process, especially skills like independence and problem-solving. 

The key difference between summer camp and summer abroad is immersion. While traditional summer camps for high school students provide structured activities that build leadership and teamwork, high school summer abroad programs immerse teens in new cultures, languages, and environments where they must adapt, communicate, and problem-solve in real-world situations. This level of independence and cultural exposure can set students apart in college applications, demonstrating their ability to thrive in unfamiliar settings and embrace new challenges. 

4. How Do the Costs Compare? Summer Camp vs. Summer Abroad 

Many parents assume that high school summer abroad programs are significantly more expensive than traditional summer camps in the U.S., but that’s not always the case. While day camps are typically the most affordable option, sleepaway camps cost several thousand dollars for just a few weeks. The cost of high school summer abroad programs is comparable and even sometimes less than sleepaway camp, with costs bundling meals, excursions, and educational experiences into one package. 

High school summer abroad programs also offer scholarship opportunities. Apply early (typically in the fall) to ensure you get access to funding support.  

No Matter the Choice, Fun Is Guaranteed! 

Whether your teen attends a day camp, sleepaway camp, or a summer abroad program, their next summer could be filled with excitement and unforgettable experiences. Each option offers a chance to break from routine, engage in meaningful activities, and create lasting memories. 

For families looking to combine adventure with cultural immersion, CIEE’s High School Summer Abroad Programs offer a unique opportunity for teens to explore the world, make new friends with teens from all across the U.S., and gain real-world learning experiences that can shape their future. Explore our high school summer abroad programs today!