Death Valley Packing List – Don’t Leave Home Without These Items
Introduction to Your Death Valley Packing List
Death Valley National Park is one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes. Death Valley is amazing – from its iconic Badwater Basin to its stunning sand dunes. But if you’re planning a trip to this incredible place, it’s essential to be prepared with the right supplies. Knowing what to pack for a Death Valley adventure can be overwhelming – from ensuring you have access to food and water to must-have safety items. That’s where our Death Valley packing list comes in for help.
This blog discusses what to include in your Death Valley packing list to prepare you for an unforgettable experience. From clothing and footwear to protective gear and camping essentials, we’ve got your back! Get ready for a wild and wonderful journey through the desert. Let’s get started!
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Death Valley Packing List
Clothing/Footwear
When packing for a trip to Death Valley, there are certain items of clothing and footwear that you should bring with you. The desert climate can be unpredictable and brutal in the summer months, so it is essential to dress appropriately to minimize issues from extreme temperatures.
Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen for clothing. Avoid dark or synthetic materials as they absorb heat and make you uncomfortable in the hot sun. Also, ensure that your clothing choices provide sun protection with UPF ratings, long sleeves, and pants for added protection from the harsh desert rays.
In terms of footwear, sturdy hiking footwear is a must for any Death Valley adventure. Be sure to find hiking boots or shoes that are comfortable, breathable, and have good traction for hiking over the rugged desert terrain. Sandals or water shoes are not recommended due to potential snake encounters and other hazards.
Backpack
Choose a lightweight backpack with plenty of pockets and compartments to store all the necessary items you will need during your trip. It should also have straps or pockets that can be used to hold water bottles, as well as an adjustable hip belt for extra support.
Bandana
A bandana is a useful item to pack for your Death Valley trip. It will help keep you cool by protecting your neck from the sun and come in handy for several other uses, such as a dust mask or a sweat towel. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics that are comfortable and not too thick for the hot desert climate.
Base Layers
Base layers are a must-have when visiting Death Valley. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton or wool to keep you cool and comfortable in the hot sun. Avoid synthetic materials, which will trap heat and make you uncomfortable. Also, ensure your base layer provides UPF protection for extra sun protection against the harsh desert rays.
Beanie for Cold Evenings
Pack a beanie for your Death Valley trip, as temperatures can drop quickly in the desert, especially at night. Choose a lightweight and breathable fabric that will keep your head warm without making you too hot. A good quality beanie will also help protect your head and ears from the sun’s rays during the day.
Camelback Pack
A Camelback pack is a great way to stay hydrated during your Death Valley trip. Not only will it help keep you properly hydrated, but it also frees up your hands for other activities. Bring extra water bottles and an extra bladder to avoid running out of water. And remember to stock up on electrolytes for added hydration!
Gloves
Gloves are important for your Death Valley trip. Trust us – we’ve experienced too many chilly nights in the area. It’s no fun when your hands are so cold that they have trouble handling objects. Not only will gloves protect your hands from the sun and keep them warm in colder temperatures, but they can also help you grip objects or tools while exploring the desert. Choose material that won’t make your hands too hot in summer. Also, look for gloves that provide UPF protection to protect your hands from the sun’s harsh rays.
Hiking Pants
Hiking pants are a must-have for any trip to Death Valley. Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen that won’t make you too hot in the desert heat. Also, look for pants with UPF protection to protect your legs from the sun’s rays. Make sure they have plenty of pockets so that you can store all the essentials in one place. And look for pants with zippers or drawstrings so that they can be easily adjusted to keep your legs comfortable and protected from the elements. We particularly like hiking pants from Kuhl.
Jeans are not recommended for hiking in Death Valley, as they are usually too thick and heavy. This can cause your legs to overheat in the hot desert sun, leading to discomfort. Additionally, jeans are not very breathable and can trap sweat against your skin, leaving you feeling sticky and uncomfortable.
Jacket
A jacket is essential to pack for a visit to Death Valley as temperatures can drop quickly in the desert, especially at night. Choose a lightweight and breathable fabric that will keep you warm without making you too hot during the day. Look for jackets with UPF protection to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Ensure the jacket is windproof, waterproof, and lightweight so you can easily adjust it to suit the ever-changing desert climate. Also, ensure it has plenty of pockets to store all the essentials you may need while exploring Death Valley.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to organize and store clothing and items. Cubes come in various sizes and can separate clothing, footwear, toiletries, and other things, so you know exactly where everything is. This will make packing easier and quicker as you won’t have to search multiple bags to find the needed items. Plus, packing cubes compress your belongings into a smaller space, allowing you to maximize the number of things you can bring on your trip.
Shirts (Wicking)
Wicking shirts are a must-have for any trip to Death Valley. These lightweight and breathable fabrics keep you cool in the hot desert sun while protecting UPF from harsh rays. Look for shirts with moisture-wicking technology so your skin stays dry and comfortable even when you sweat in the desert heat. Also, choose shirts with long sleeves and a higher neckline to provide extra protection from the sun.
Shoes (Hiking)
Sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes are essential for any Death Valley adventure. Choose shoes with good traction to navigate the rugged terrain without slipping. Look for breathable fabrics such as leather or canvas to keep your feet cool in the hot desert sun, and make sure they have plenty of cushioning to support your feet during long hikes. Also, opt for closed-toe shoes to protect your feet from the elements and potential hazards such as snakes or cacti. Be sure to break in your shoes before heading out on your trip, so that you can be comfortable while exploring the desert.
Socks (Hiking)
Bring hiking socks for your Death Valley trip. Choose moisture-wicking fabrics to keep your feet dry and comfortable in the desert heat while providing cushioning and support for long hikes. Look for ankle-high or calf-length styles to provide extra protection from potential hazards such as cacti spikes and snakes. Also, opt for thicker fabrics such as wool or synthetic materials to keep your feet warm at night and in colder temperatures. Pack an extra pair of socks just in case to stay comfortable on your journey through the desert.
Sweatshirt
Even though it’s generally warm in Death Valley, you’ll likely be glad to have packed a sweatshirt for your trip. Temperature can drop quickly in the desert, especially at night, so it’s essential to have something warm and comfortable.
Sun Hat
A sun hat is a must-have when packing for a trip to Death Valley. The desert sun can be harsh and relentless, so protecting your head and face from UV rays with a good-quality sun hat is essential. Look for lightweight, breathable hats that protect UPF against the intense desert rays.
Sunglasses
The sun’s rays can be intense in the desert, so protecting your eyes with good-quality sunglasses is essential. Choose lenses with 100% UV protection and polarized lenses that will reduce glare from the bright desert sun. Look for frames made of lightweight and durable materials such as polycarbonate or titanium so that they won’t be too heavy on your face.
Towel (small for travel)
A small travel towel is helpful for a Death Valley trip. Choose a lightweight and quick-drying fabric, such as microfiber, so that it won’t take up too much space in your bag. Look for highly absorbent towels yet compact enough to fit into a backpack or small suitcase. Travel towels can be used to clean up spills or wipe away sweat while exploring the desert.
Death Valley Packing List
Camping Supplies
Repair Kit
A camping repair kit is essential to camp in Death Valley. The desert can be unforgiving and unpredictable, so having the right supplies in an emergency is necessary. Pack items like duct tape, zip ties, safety pins, thread and needle, super glue, and scissors for quick fixes or repairs.
Plastic Ground Sheet
If planning to sleep in a tent, bring a plastic ground sheet as a layer between your tent and the ground.
Sleeping Bag
A sleeping bag is an essential item to pack for a visit to Death Valley. Choose a lightweight and waterproof bag with insulation technology to protect your body from cold desert temperatures at night. Ensure your sleeping bag is rated for the expected temperatures in Death Valley to stay comfortable for your overnight stay in the desert.
Sleeping Pad
Choose a lightweight and comfortable sleeping pad that will provide insulation from the cold desert ground at night while cushioning your back and joints. Look for pads with air chambers or foam technology to provide extra comfort. Ensure your sleeping pad is rated for the expected temperatures in Death Valley.
Tent With Rainfly
Choose a lightweight and waterproof tent that will protect you from the elements while providing enough room for all your camping gear. Look for tents with sturdy poles, UV protection, and breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the hot desert sun. Also, ensure the tent has a rainfly in case of sudden storms to keep you dry and protected from the elements.
Death Valley Packing List
Food and Drink
Cup, Bowl, Plate, Utensils
If you are packing your food, bringing a cup, bowl, plate, and utensils is important. Choose lightweight and durable materials like stainless steel or titanium that won’t take up too much space in your bag but will still be strong enough to last through your adventure. Look for collapsible cups, bowls, and plates that will take up less space in your bag when not in use. And remember to bring utensils such as spoons, forks, and knives, so you can enjoy all the delicious food you’ll be cooking during your trip in the desert.
Food For The Number Of Days Of Your Trip
When packing for your trip to Death Valley, it is essential to bring enough food and snacks for the days you plan on being in the desert. Choose lightweight and non-perishable items such as nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, or jerky that only take up a little space in your bag. Make sure to pack enough food for all meals, as well as snacks in between. It’s also a good idea to bring extra food and snacks in an emergency. Packing enough food for the days you plan to explore Death Valley is an essential item on any Death Valley packing list.
Ice
Ice is essential when packing for a trip to Death Valley. The desert heat can quickly spoil any food items, so bringing enough ice to keep your food cool and fresh during your stay in the desert is important. Choose block ice or freezable gel packs that will last longer and won’t take up too much space in your bag. Make sure to stock up on ice at a store before heading out, and bring extra for the journey just in case.
Cooler
A cooler or ice chest is an essential item to pack for a trip to Death Valley. The desert heat can quickly spoil any food items, so bring a good quality cooler or ice chest to keep your food and drinks cool and fresh during your stay in the desert. Choose one with plenty of room for all your items and with insulation technology to keep the contents cool even in the hot desert sun. Look for a cooler with wheels or handles for easy transport over the rugged terrain.
Water
The desert heat can be relentless, and staying hydrated is vital. Make sure to bring enough water for your stay in the desert, as it may only sometimes be available in some areas. Pack plenty of reusable water bottles to refill them when needed. Also, opt for water purification tablets or a water filter if you drink from natural sources while exploring the desert.
Water Bottle (Reusable)
A reusable water bottle is beneficial to have during your trip. Choose a lightweight and durable water bottle that will keep your drinks cool even in the hot desert sun. Look for bottles with good insulation and wide mouth openings. Make sure to bring enough reusable water bottles for your stay in the desert, and also stock up on extra water sources just in case.
Water Bladder
A water bladder is a must-have item for any trip to Death Valley. The desert heat can be relentless and unforgiving, so always staying adequately hydrated is important. Look for bladders with a wide mouth opening to refill them easily. Also, remember to bring extra water bottles in case your bladder runs out of water. A good quality water bladder is essential for any Death Valley packing list.
Death Valley Packing List
Technology
Battery Pack
A battery pack is a necessity if you’re traveling with electronic devices. This will help you stay connected and powered up during your journey. Choose a durable battery pack that will provide enough juice to charge your devices while on the go. Look for packs with multiple ports so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. Also, ensure the pack is waterproof and dustproof in case of sudden storms or sandstorms while exploring the desert.
Camera
Even though most of us have cameras built into our cell phones, a quality camera can help you capture better quality memories during your Death Valley trip. The desert landscape offers breathtaking sights, from the expansive salt flats at Badwater Basin to colorful sunsets at Zabriskie Point. Look for cameras with dustproof or waterproof cases, so you can capture those unforgettable moments even if there is a sudden sandstorm. Also, ensure the camera has enough battery life to last through your adventure in the desert.
Charging Cords
Charging cords are necessary to stay powered up during your journey. Be sure you have cords to accompany each of your electronic devices.
Offline Map
If you’re planning a trip to Death Valley, it’s essential to have an offline map downloaded beforehand to ensure that you don’t get lost. With limited cell service in the area, having an offline map can be a lifesaver. Start by opening up your preferred map app and searching for Death Valley National Park. Once you find it, select the option to download an offline map. This will allow you to access the map without an internet connection. Download the entire park area to avoid getting lost in remote areas. With an offline map, you can confidently explore the beauty of Death Valley without worrying about losing your way.
Wide-Angle Camera Lens
For photography buffs, we highly recommend bringing a wide-angle camera lens. You can capture more of the stunning landscape and beautiful scenery with a wide lens. For a zoom lens, consider a 16-35mm lens. For prime lens, we’ve traveled to Death Valley with a 20mm lens, providing some of our best travel photos ever.
Death Valley Packing List
Toiletries and Medical Supplies
Bug Repellent
Yes, even in Death Valley, it’s important to remember to bring bug repellent. Insects can be a nuisance in the park, so pack insect repellent containing at least 35% DEET. Additionally, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect yourself from bites.
Lip Balm
Protecting your lips in the harsh climate of Death Valley is essential. Look for a lip balm with SPF protection, and watch for any ingredients to which you are allergic.
Hand Sanitizer
Make sure to pack hand sanitizer in your bag. You’ll want this available for bathroom breaks before eating in the park. Be sure to choose a hand sanitizer that is hydrating and fast-absorbing, like Bergamot + Chamomile.
First Aid Kit
Bring a well-stocked first aid kit if you’re planning a visit to Death Valley. A basic first aid kit should include adhesive bandages of various sizes, long closure strips, adhesive butterfly bandages, tweezers, safety pins, antiseptic wipes or creams, gauze pads, rolls, medical tape, scissors, and more. Customizing your first aid kit for the specific activity you’ll be doing in Death Valley is also essential. Be sure to include medications that can help alleviate symptoms on the trail.
Medications
Make sure to bring any medications that you may need during your visit. You won’t find drug stores in the National Park, so you’ll want to be prepared to care for your medical needs.
Personal Hygiene Items
Pack all the personal hygiene items you need to stay comfortable and healthy. The harsh desert environment can take a toll on your body. The National Park has limited resources to restock personal hygiene items, so your best bet is to bring such things. Pack all your hygiene items, from shampoo to conditioner, makeup, toothbrush, toothpaste, and grooming, for a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Death Valley.
Sunscreen
It’s important to remember to bring sunscreen. The desert sun is powerful and relentless, so you must have a broad-brimmed hat, protective clothing, and plenty of sunscreens. Proper sun avoidance precautions allow you to enjoy your trip to Death Valley without worrying about sunburns or other sun-related issues.
Toilet Paper
Make sure to bring enough toilet paper for your trip, as supplies may not be available in some areas of the desert. Opt for lightweight, compact rolls that won’t take up too much space in your bag but still offer plenty of sheets per roll. Pack toilet paper in waterproof or resealable bags to stay dry despite a sudden rainstorm.
Death Valley Packing List
Vehicle
Jumper Cables
Bringing jumper cables with you on your visit to Death Valley is a must. With so much inhospitable terrain, it’s important to be prepared in an emergency. Jumper cables are essential for jump-starting a car if the battery dies or gets stuck in sand or mud. In addition, they can also be used to charge a dead battery if necessary.
Satellite Car GPS
Bring a Satellite Car GPS to navigate the park safely and efficiently. Make sure to bring spare batteries for your GPS device, a compass, and offline maps from Google or Gaia GPS. Additionally, consider getting a personal locator beacon in case of emergency.
Spare Tire
Having a spare tire with you on your visit to Death Valley is essential. With so much rugged terrain and a lack of automotive services, it’s vital to be prepared in an emergency. Check that the spare tire is inflated correctly and undamaged before leaving home, and store it securely while driving. Also, bring a jack and lug wrench if you need to change the tire. Having a spare tire with you can make a big difference if something unexpected happens while exploring Death Valley!
Death Valley Packing List
Accessories
Binoculars
Visiting Death Valley is an incredible experience; bringing binoculars can make it even more memorable. Binoculars are great for stargazing at night, as they provide a closer look at the stars. They are also helpful for bird-watching and landscape photography. For a truly unique experience, try using Gosky 20×80 binoculars for a better view of the Milky Way from June to early August.
Compass
With so much unstructured terrain, it can be easy to get lost in the vastness of the desert landscape. A high-quality compass is an ideal navigational tool and can help you find landmarks and trails while exploring this magnificent place. In addition, a compass will help you stay on track during a day hike or backpacking trip.
Flashlight
You’ll experience many hours of darkness in the desert and hardly any artificial light. It’s essential to see where you’re going in the darkness. A good quality flashlight will provide ample brightness and allow you to see any obstacles that may lie ahead. In addition, a flashlight can be handy for night photography and star-gazing.
Headlamp
Having a headlamp will help you see where you’re going when you walk around at night. A good quality headlamp will provide ample brightness and allow you to get around in dark areas.
Hiking Poles
Bringing hiking poles with you on your visit to Death Valley can be a lifesaver. With so much uneven terrain in the desert, a good pair of hiking poles will provide extra stability and support while navigating the rough landscape. Poles are also great for stream crossings or stepping into the hot sand. In addition, they offer an excellent upper-body workout, helping to increase strength and endurance for longer hikes.
Map (Topographic)
Bringing a topographic map with you during your Death Valley visit is helpful even in today’s era of cell phone-accessible maps. With so much unstructured terrain, it can be easy to get lost in the vastness of the desert landscape. A high-quality map will provide an overview of the area and help you find trails, landmarks, and points of interest while exploring this magnificent place. A topographic map will also help you identify potential hazards and stay on track during a day hike or backpacking trip.
Pocket Knife
Bringing a pocket knife with you on your visit to Death Valley can be a lifesaver. With its many uses, this small yet helpful tool is essential for any outdoor adventure. A pocket knife can cut ropes, fix broken equipment, and even remove splinters or thorns from your skin. It’s also great for setting up camp and preparing meals.
Whistle
A whistle can signal in an emergency and may help alert rangers or other parkgoers if needed. It’s also helpful in scaring away wild animals that might approach you while hiking or exploring the area.
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Mobile Phone and Internet Coverage
If you want to make a phone call while in Death Valley, don’t count on having much luck. You may be able to snag a weak signal at Furnace Creek, but you’ll likely have difficulty finding reception in much of the park.
As for getting online, you don’t have to worry about picking up Wi-Fi at Furnace Creek Ranch, Furnace Creek Inn, and the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
Availability of Services in Death Valley National Park
If you are planning a trip to Death Valley National Park, it’s essential to plan and be prepared. All the basics, like gas, groceries, ice, and sit-down meals, can be found at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs. However, remember that 3.4 million acres is a lot of land, so that you may find many miles away from these locations.
Be sure to fill up your car with gas before embarking on any journey, as prices in the park can be expensive. Additionally, ensure that you take enough food and water for each person – at least a gallon daily. Should your car break down, it is much wiser to wait for help rather than attempting to walk. Rangers patrol the park, and they will be able to offer assistance.
Learn about gas stations in Death Valley here
Summary – Packing for Death Valley
Visiting Death Valley is an incredible experience, and being adequately prepared for the trip can make it even more memorable. Bringing along binoculars, a compass, a flashlight, hiking poles, jumper cables, and a topographic map are among the items you’ll want to pack when you explore this vast desert landscape.
Additionally, you should check the availability of Death Valley National Park services before your visit and stock up on essentials like gas, groceries, ice, and sit-down meals. So pack all the necessary items to get the most out of your trip and have an unforgettable experience in Death Valley!
Happy Exploring!
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