They have been described as 'rough, minimal rock [with] a punk edge', and the lyrics 'articulate human entanglements with a lack of sentimentality that belies how much [McDonald] cares'. Songs are initially written by McDonald, who then sends a 'crappy phone recording' to Hellmrich and Thompson, before they all come together and create the finished song. Camp Cope has been influenced by many bands, such as Philadelphia indie rock bands Hop Along, and Cayetana, whose records they gave their engineer before recording "How to Socialise & Make Friends". Bassist Hellmrich is also influenced by Peter Hook - bass player for Joy Division - and Mark Hoppus - bass player for Blink-182.