Items You Need To Bring When Visiting America’s National Parks
Don’t forget these items when packing for your next outdoor adventure in one of our nation’s outdoor wonders.
America’s national parks celebrated their 100th birthday last year, but their rugged beauty and fascinating history never gets old. The United States’ national parks are among the country’s greatest treasures, and packing the right gear will help you have the best experience possible when visiting America’s National Parks. Remember, less is more, it’s not how much you pack, but what you pack that’s important.
Hat, Sunglasses, and Sunscreen – Even in the winter and on cloudy days you need to make sure you are protected from head to toe from the sun’s rays. A wide-brimmed hat is preferable over a baseball cap as it can better protect your entire face.
Insect Repellent – Keep those pesky insects away with a strong insect repellent. If you are in bear country, don’t forget the bear spray.
Rain Jacket – A light-weight rain coat stashed in your backpack will help prevent mother nature from spoiling your trip.
Water Bottle or Filtration Device – It’s important to stay hydrated since water is the most important survival need. You will need water to drink, cook, and clean. We keep a water filtration device in our emergency kit just in case.
Camera and Binoculars – You’ll want to be able to see the animals that you can’t get close to and a weather-proof camera is a must to get the shots to remember your visit for years to come.
Medication – Be sure to bring any prescription medications that you take.
Plastic Bags – Plastic bags come in handy to pack out used toilet paper if nature calls while you are hiking.
Pocket Blanket – You should have a quality multi-purpose pocket blanket in your backpack as you never know when you will need one for emergencies or sudden weather changes.
Hiking Boots or Comfortable All-Day Shoes – Depending on which park you visit and what your plans are you will need proper footwear. Tip: The day of a long hike is not the day to break in a new pair. You’ll just end up with blisters and sore feet.
Socks – Even when just visiting for the day, you’ll to add an extra pair of socks to your dry bag just in case your feet get wet.
Backpack – You need a sturdy backpack that is water-resistant to carry all your emergency and convenience items in.
Dry Bag – Keep all the items that you don’t want to get wet in this specially made bag. We keep our spare clothes, towels, pocket blankets, emergency kit, and electronics in ours.
Swimwear – If there’s any chance you might take a dip, you’ll want a swimsuit.
Extra Clothing – You always want to be able to put on and take off layers as the weather and your activity changes.
Tent – Many of the parks offer backcountry campsites. They are a great way to get away from the crowds and have your own experience. If you are camping you’ll also want to have a sleeping bag or pad, a stove, fire starter or lighter, flashlights or headlamps, and if you are in bear country, a bear bag.
Be sure to check-in at the visitor center when you first arrive at the park. You’ll receive valuable information about closures, weather conditions, and more.
