3 Smart Strategies for Packing for a Camping Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Maybe seeing Old Faithful is on your travel bucket list. Maybe you’re an outdoor sports enthusiast. Maybe you just want to take some really cool nature photographs. Whatever your reason, if you want to truly experience Yellowstone National Park, camping is one of the best ways to do it.

But as any experienced camper will tell you, having the right gear with you is crucial to a successful camping trip. And to make sure you have everything you need, here’s a list of everything you need when you’re packing for a camping trip to Yellowstone.

• Weather-appropriate clothes

  Cargo shorts, sturdy boots, and a loose cotton shirt… right?

  Ummmm, not exactly! The time of year you visit the park will play a huge role in the clothes you’re packing for a camping trip to Yellowstone.

  We highly recommend summer, with its mild days and cool (like, 40 degrees cool) nights. Even at its absolute hottest, summer’s daytime temps rarely exceed 90 degrees.

  But winter’s another beast altogether. Temps can easily fall below freezing, even during the day. Ideal for skiers and snowshoers, but not so ideal for campers.

  So assuming you’re planning your trip during the more temperate months, here are some clothing items you may want to take with you.

  Daytime clothing: You guys remember those cooler mornings and nights we mentioned? Bring layers, so you can add or remove clothing as needed.

  Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials work best. And make sure you have options with a variety of lengths (pants and shorts, long and short-sleeves).

  Yellowstone has miles and miles of hiking trails, so bring your hiking boots or sturdy shoes with good traction. You’ll also want a few pairs of moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet happy.

  Other clothing essentials you might want to consider:

  – A bathing suit, if you’re planning on any water-based activities
  – Gloves and a beanie, if you’re planning a high-altitude hike or expect cooler weather.
  – A lightweight, waterproof jacket… because you just never know!

  Nighttime clothing: Yellowstone does get cooler at night. Fleece sweaters, sweatpants, and wool socks are all good options to have with you. And as for jammies, you want to make sure you stay comfy and cozy at night. (Even if that means wearing your sloth onesie.)

  Pro Tip: Regardless of when you visit Yellowstone, keep an eye on the weather forecast. You’re better off packing extra clothes, so you can be comfortable at any temperature.

• Camping Supplies

  So here’s one super cool thing about camping here: you don’t have to bring all your camping gear with you because you can rent it there! Mind. Blown.

  There are several camping outfitters that rent everything you might need: a tent, sleeping bag, cooler, chair, and even a stove.

  So when you’re packing for a camping trip to Yellowstone, you can leave out the big stuff and focus on smaller supplies:

  – Flashlight and extra batteries
  – Inflatable pillow – you need your beauty sleep!
  – Pocket-sized multi-tool
  – Portable cell phone charger
  – Shower wipes
  – Thermos
  – And, of course, a lightweight, waterproof backpack to fit it all into

• Outdoor Gear

  Here’s where you get to have some fun! Because you can tailor this part of your packing list to whatever your heart desires.

  Hiking? Bring your boots, comfortable socks, and maybe band-aids (blisters are A THING, you guys).

  Want to cool off in the swimming holes? Pack your bathing suit, water shoes, and a quick-dry towel.

  Checking out the wildlife? Binoculars and guidebooks it is!

  Boating, kayaking, or fishing = fast-drying clothing, dry bag, water shoes or waders, fishing vest

  Pro Tip: When you’re packing for a camping trip to Yellowstone, no matter what outdoor activities you’re planning, make sure you bring sunscreen, mosquito repellent, UV-rated sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat or cap.

Packing for a camping trip to Yellowstone might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Just keep your camping needs in mind, and pack stuff that’ll make you comfortable and happy.

Of course, the supplies you need for a camping trip can take up some serious space in your suitcase! Avoid overweight baggage fees (or having to check a second bag, ouch!) by shipping your stuff to your final destination with LugLess. For less than the price of the average checked bag, we’ll make sure your camping gear makes it to Yellowstone, without the cost and hassle of checking bags at the airport.