Yellowstone Packing List: Essentials for Stress-Free Sightseeing

Q: What should I pack for a Yellowstone road trip?

For road tripping Yellowstone , pack snacks, a cooler for drinks, reusable water bottles, a map or guidebook, a power bank for your electronic devices, and binoculars for wildlife spotting. Include a first aid kit for emergencies and weather-appropriate clothing.

Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park and don’t know what to pack? I’ve got you covered with this comprehensive Yellowstone packing list!

A trip to Yellowstone National Park is a big deal! But packing for Yellowstone can be tough. The weather can have major mood swings, you need to bring along practical items for being out in nature and road tripping around the park. And most people are flying in, so you have to pack it all in a suitcase.

Don’t worry, though, I’ve been through it myself, and I’m here to help you!

I’ve put together this Yellowstone packing list, complete with essential clothing and accessories, must-have items for exploring the park, and convenient extras to make your trip even better. You can also download your free packing list to make planning your trip even easier.

Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

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What to Pack for Yellowstone

Clothing and Accessories

The first place to start when packing for Yellowstone is bringing along the right clothing. The weather in Wyoming can be unpredictable, and you’re going to spend a lot of time outdoors. Focus on comfort, practicality, and layers when choosing your wardrobe.

Here’s a list of must-pack clothing and accessories:

Breathable Layers — Lightweight tops (both short and long sleeve), sweaters, and packable jackets are ideal for adjusting to Yellowstone’s varying temperatures throughout the day: mornings and evenings tend to be cooler, but it can warm up fast during the day in the summer.
Comfortable Walking Shoes or Sneakers — Sturdy shoes are essential for exploring Yellowstone’s boardwalks, short trails, and scenic overlooks. Even if you aren’t planning on taking long hikes, I recommend sturdy hiking boots that can support your ankles for long days of being on your feet.
Sun Protection — A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will protect you from the strong high-altitude sun during outdoor activities. Be sure you bring along a hat with a strap so it doesn’t blow off your head! Yellowstone can be very windy, and we saw a lot of hats lost to the geysers (never try to go after your lost items; your life is worth more).
Warm Layers — Early mornings and evenings in Yellowstone can be chilly, even in summer. Pack a fleece, lightweight jacket, or insulated sweater to stay comfortable.
Rain Jacket or Poncho — The weather can change suddenly in Yellowstone, and you don’t want to be caught in the rain without protection! Be sure to bring along a light rain jacket or poncho to keep you dry in case of a sudden shower.
Trekking Poles — If you need extra stability on uneven terrain or for short hikes, trekking poles can be very helpful.

Paige and family in rain jackets at Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Essentials for Exploring Yellowstone

Beyond the right clothing, there are a few other essentials you’ll need for Yellowstone to make sure you can fully enjoy the park’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife. These items will help you stay safe, comfortable, and prepared while exploring the national park.

Here are the essentials you should bring:

Binoculars — Perfect for spotting wildlife like bears, bison, and elk from a safe distance, a good pair of binoculars will let you take a closer look without disturbing the animals or risking safety.
Lightweight Daypack — A small backpack is ideal for carrying snacks, water, sunscreen, and other necessities for a day of sightseeing and short hikes. I recommend these Knack expandable backpacks because you can expand them to use as a carry-on for your flight and then compress it down to a small day pack for exploring.
Reusable Water Bottles — Staying hydrated is essential, especially in Yellowstone’s high-altitude environment. Bring durable, refillable bottles for everyone in your group so y’all can stay hydrated and be eco-friendly.
Easy-to-Carry Travel Snacks — Granola bars, trail mix, or nuts provide energy for a full day of exploring and are easy to pack in your daypack. These are probably cheaper to bring from home because most things get more expensive when you buy them in the park.
Basic First Aid Kit — Bring along a small first aid kit that includes items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers to handle minor injuries or discomforts during your trip. Remember that you’re going out into the wilderness, and while the national park is popular, at times you’re very far away from others.
Bug Spray or Insect Repellent — Bring along bug spray or bug repellent wipes to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects, especially during summer or when exploring near the water.
Map or Guidebook — GPS and cell service can be unreliable in many parts of the park, so download an offline version of the map or pick up a physical map or guidebook to help you easily navigate without service.

Paige and family using binoculars at an overlook at Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Miscellaneous Items for Convenience

For a truly enjoyable and stress-free trip to Yellowstone, don’t forget these extra items for added convenience and comfort. From staying connected to relaxing at scenic spots, these essentials will make your adventure smoother and more enjoyable.

Here are some additional items you should consider packing:

Power Bank — Keep your phone and other devices charged throughout the day with a portable power bank. This will be especially useful for navigation, taking photos, and staying in touch.
Camera or Smartphone with Ample Storage — If you’re like me and you love taking photos, make sure you have enough storage on your camera or phone to capture all those incredible moments.
Travel-Sized Toiletries — Bring along hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and tissues for freshening up after a long day or using public restrooms (most of the restrooms are vault toilets, and they aren’t always stocked with hand sanitizer). (Also, remember that “flushable” wipes aren’t actually flushable! Be sure to throw away all your trash properly.)
Travel Documents and Park Pass — Keep your ID, park pass, and any reservation details organized and easily accessible.
Family-Friendly Extras — If you’re traveling with kids, bring along books, small games, or activities to keep them entertained during downtime.

Paige and family in front of an aerial view of the Grand Prismatic Spring seen from the Fairy Falls Trail in Yellowstone National Park, showing vibrant blue, green, yellow, and orange rings of microbial mats around the hot spring. A boardwalk with visitors stretches along the edge, surrounded by pine trees and forested hills in the background.

Your Free Yellowstone Packing List: Download Now

Planning your Yellowstone adventure is easier with this handy checklist! This printable list includes everything you’ll need for stress-free sightseeing, short hikes, and family-friendly fun.

Subscribe here to download your Yellowstone Packing List.

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Packing for Yellowstone FAQ

Do I need bear spray in Yellowstone?

Yes, bear spray is recommended in Yellowstone, especially if you plan to hike or explore areas away from main tourist spots. Always carry it in accessible locations and know how to use it.

If you’re flying into Yellowstone, you won’t be able to pack bear spray, so plan to rent some at the airport, at the national park, or from a local outdoor supplies store in the area.

What clothes should I wear in Yellowstone?

Wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for variable weather. You’ll want to pack breathable tops, a lightweight jacket, sturdy walking shoes, and sun protection. Add warm layers for mornings and evenings. Bring along a rain coat for sudden showers.

What should I pack for a Yellowstone road trip?

For road tripping Yellowstone, pack snacks, a cooler for drinks, reusable water bottles, a map or guidebook, a power bank for your electronic devices, and binoculars for wildlife spotting. Include a first aid kit for emergencies and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is a first aid kit necessary for Yellowstone?

Yes, a basic first aid kit is recommended for exploring Yellowstone, especially if you plan to get off the beaten path. Your first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications in case of minor injuries or emergencies.

Top Yellowstone National Park Tours

Want a little extra guidance on your trip to Yellowstone National Park? Here are a few guided tour options:

Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park

Want to stay inside Yellowstone National Park? It’s the best place to stay when visiting! There are 9 lodges inside the park:

Yellowstone also has 12 campgrounds that you can reserve in advance.

More Wyoming Itineraries

Plan your perfect Wyoming vacation with these helpful itineraries and tips:

Ready to visit Yellowstone National Park? Plan your trip with these tips.

Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels near Yellowstone using Expedia.
Start Packing: Check out my packing list resources so you’re prepared for your trip.

Cheers!

Paige

Yellowstone Packing List: Essentials for Stress-Free Sightseeing

Did you find this Yellowstone packing list helpful? Let me know in the comments!

Yellowstone Packing List: Essentials for Stress-Free Sightseeing