Summer Packing List for National Parks

We’ve put together a summer packing list for National Parks to help you make sure you have everything you need for your trip.

The list is fairly comprehensive, and you may not need every item depending on your type of travel or the things you will do. Modify the list as needed.

There are a lot of US National Park vacation ideas for summer travel. Depending on where you go will determine what you’ll need to pack!

Be sure to download the packing list for summer for free below!

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you! Read the full Disclosure Policy.

SUMMER PACKING LIST FOR NATIONAL PARKS

Weather, region and elevation are important to consider when packing for a US National Park trip in the summer. Be sure to plan for locations with excessive heat, summer monsoons and other weather conditions and check the forecast so you pack accordingly!

Sun protection (sunscreen, sun hat and sunglasses) and hydration (refillable water bottles or hydration pack) are important for travel during the summer months.

You’ll also want to wear wicking, quick-drying clothing (underclothes, UV shirts, pants or shorts) that pulls sweat away from your body and out to the fabric where it can dry quickly.

Summer Packing Checklist

National Parks Pass

The US National Park Pass is a good deal, especially if you’ll be visiting more than one park during the year. It’s valid for one year from the date of purchase. For the most current information on passes, reference the National Park Service website.

The America the Beautiful pass allows two signatures so it can be shared, and the two people don’t have to be related. Keep in mind you will need to show photo ID each time you use the pass.

We like to buy our pass through REI – they donate 10% of sale proceeds to the National Park Foundation which is cool! Plus that purchase goes toward our REI annual member dividend. You can also get them at any of these Federal Recreation Areas.

Daypack Items for Outdoor Activities in the Summer

Reusable water bottle or hydration backpack
Healthy snacks
Flashlight or headlamp
National Park maps
Sunscreen
Lip protection with sunscreen
Polarized sunglasses
Insect repellent
Hand lotion
Toilet paper (carry out in a bag – do not bury)
Disposable urination device & feminine hygiene products
Toilet bags
Hand sanitizer
First aid kit
Bags to pack out trash

Hiking Gear for the Summer

Hiking shoes
Darn Tough socks – the BEST socks ever – really!
Hiking sandals
Trekking poles
What to Bring on a Day Hike
Hiking Gear and Tips for Kids
Photography Gear for Hiking
Best Cameras for Hiking

Clothing for the Summer

In the summer you’ll want to wear wicking clothing so it pulls moisture (sweat) away from you and moves it to the fabric’s outer surface, where it can dry quickly. Wicking clothing allows you to sweat without feeling clammy or chilled.