USA & Canada | Destination Guides

What to pack when visiting America's National Parks

Recently updated on October 6th, 2022 at 03:11 pm

Never go into battle unprepared, especially when you plan to conquer America’s greatest wildernesses. From Yellowstone Park’s pine-filled canyons to Mesa Verde’s sandstone formations, America’s National Parks have a varied and rugged terrain that requires some serious kit to confront. Here’s our essential guide on what to pack when visiting America’s National Parks.

USA’s National Parks Packing List:

Sturdy Footwear – Robust hiking boots with good grips and ankle support are essential for hiking across uneven surfaces.

Lightweight Shoes – When you’re not in your hiking boots slip into a lightweight day shoe or trainer.

Thick Socks – You’ll be doing lots of walking so keep your feet snug and comfy in a nice chunky pair of socks.

Waterproof Backpack – A sizeable, showerproof backpack to carry all your items around in is a must-bring. Go for one with plenty of outer pockets.

Hat – Bring a wide-brimmed one to keep your face out of the sun.

America's National ParksSunglasses – Keep UVA rays at bay with a quality pair of sunglasses, a chain or lanyard is a fantastic way of keeping them secure when they’re not on your face too.

Light Waterproof Jacket – Be sure to bring a lightweight waterproof jacket that can easily be rolled and stowed in your backpack in case of showers.

Warm Layers – Park temperatures can fluctuate wildly between day and night so pack items you can layer up like a cotton scarf and cozy sweater you can throw on at night when the temperature dips.

America's National Parks Grand-canyon-www.istockphoto.comgbphototravel-in-grand-canyon-man-hiker-with-backpack-enjoying-view-gm639133152-115027003-Nikolas_jkd Monument-valley-www.istockphoto.comgbphotomonument-valley-navajo-tribal-park-gm639740216-115481121-FillipoBacci

Thermals & Fleece – If you’re visiting in winter keep warm with fleece-lined thermal trousers and a fleece jacket or gilet.

Water Bottle – Like with any outdoor activity you need to keep hydrated so bring a water bottle. You should drink between 0.5-1 liters for every hour of hiking.

Camera – Those wonderful mountains and lakes shouldn’t go un-captured so you’ll need your camera to create those memorable moments.

Binoculars – Bring that moose in the distance into view with a pair of binoculars. Opt for a compact pair that can easily fit in your backpack.

Journal – Pack a notepad so you can keep a record of all the sights you’ve seen.

America's National ParksBear Spray – The likelihood of your encountering a grizzly is slim but park staff at Yellowstone recommends you bring some along to be on the safe side.

Insect Repellant – Banish any pesky unwanted companions with a handy bug-spray.

Sunscreen – Whatever the weather, protect your skin with a quality 50+SPF. Apply liberally to your face and any exposed skin.

First Aid Kit – You’ll never know when you need a plaster or aspirin so take a small first aid kit.

Torch – A head torch, although not particularly fashionable, is super handy for when the sun goes down.

Before any visit to any of America’s National Parks check the weather forecast, including the day and night temperature and remember to pack accordingly.

Ready to get hiking? Discover the majesty of America’s National Parks click here to discover a sensational Trafalgar trip.

Image Credits: Main image © iStock/Mundusimages. Canyon © Neil Hodge, guest. Yellowstone with bison © iStock/alptraum.

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