Channel Islands California, USA Travel Guide
A moisture-wicking Base layer (synthetic or merino wool) helps manage sweat. A Fleece jacket or lightweight Puffer jacket provides warmth as a mid-layer. A Waterproof and windproof shell jacket (e.g., a Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket) is an outer layer, protecting against sudden rain and strong ocean winds. Quick-drying Hiking pants or Convertible pants prove useful. Jeans are not recommended as they dry slowly and become heavy when wet. No specific appropriate attire for cultural places exists beyond standard outdoor activity attire. Dress for comfort and safeguarding from the elements.
Hiking calls for Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes. Wear moisture-wicking Socks and quick-drying pants or shorts with layered tops. For swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking, a Swimsuit and Rash guard (for Sun protection and warmth) are necessary. A Wetsuit (e.g., Body Glove Men's Pro 3 Wetsuit) is highly recommended due to the cold water. For outdoor camping, pack warm sleepwear and extra layers for evenings.
U.S. Citizens require a valid government-issued photo ID. International visitors require a valid passport with any necessary visa or ESTA approval.
Print or save digital copies of your travel insurance policy, including emergency contact numbers.
Have printed and digital copies of ferry, campsite, mainland accommodation, and tour confirmations. Carry a list of emergency contacts.
Ensure all essential travel documents are prepared before your journey. This comprises identification, travel insurance, and reservation confirmations.
The United States uses 120V, 60Hz. Type A and Type B outlets are standard. If coming from a country with various voltage or plug types, bring a Universal Travel Adapter. Most modern smartphones work with U.S. Cellular networks. On the mainland, consider a prepaid SIM from AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent on most islands; a satellite phone for remote backcountry trips is a good consideration. No charging facilities exist on the isles; Portable chargers are necessary. A High-capacity power bank (e.g., Anker Power Bank, 20,000mAh) can charge a phone multiple times.
A Waterproof camera (e.g., GoPro Hero 11 Black) proves useful for kayaking and snorkeling. A Telephoto lens helps for photographing animals in their habitat. Protect your equipment with a Dry bag (e.g., Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag) for activities on the water. Recommended apps include Google Maps (mainland), AllTrails (hiking, offline maps), and the NPS Channel Islands app (offline content). Contingency plans for important data, such as cloud storage or an External hard drive, are a good idea.
Consider using cloud services to back up photos and documents while on mainland.
An External hard drive offers a physical backup for important files.
Locks or a Money belt are a good idea for mainland travel; minimal need on islands.
A well-stocked health and wellness kit provides readiness for minor issues and emergencies in a remote setting. Include a comprehensive Kit with adhesive bandages, cleansing wipes, sterile gauze, adhesive tape for medical use, pain relievers (Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen), antihistamines, Anti-diarrhea medication, Moleskin/blister treatment, Hydrocortisone cream, bug bite relief, tweezers, and a small pair of scissors. A good starting point is the Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Explorer.
Protection from the sun is vital due to the high UV index. Pack High SPF sunscreen (30-50+), Lip balm with SPF, a Wide-brimmed hat (e.g., Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat), and UV-protective sunglasses. While mosquitoes pose a minor issue, ticks and biting flies exist; a repellent with DEET or picaridin (e.g., Sawyer Products Premium Picaridin Insect Repellent) performs effectively. Bring all personal hygiene items, including biodegradable soap/shampoo if using near water, Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and toilet paper (pack out used TP).
A Daypack (e.g., Osprey Talon 22) proves useful. Trekking poles are optional but helpful on steep trails. A Headlamp (e.g., Black Diamond Spot 400) becomes necessary for camping or night exploration.
For snorkeling or diving, bring a mask, snorkel, fins, and a wetsuit. A dive flag is required if diving. If bringing your own kayak, carry a kayak, paddle, PFD (personal flotation device), and a Dry bag. Island Packers offers rentals at Scorpion Cove seasonally for kayaks and snorkel gear, which often surpasses bringing cumbersome things.
A lightweight tent (e.g., REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+), a Sleeping bag appropriate for temperatures, a sleeping pad, a compact stove (e.g., Jetboil Flash Cooking System), fuel, a cooking pot, utensils, and an animal-proof food storage container are necessary. Consider renting Camping gear from mainland outdoor stores if flying.
The ferry ride may take 1-3 hours, so Neck pillow and Eye mask can aid comfort. Security items like locks or a Money belt are not highly necessary on the islands due to extremely low crime, but standard travel security items apply for mainland travel. A simple lock for a tent zipper can deter curious critters more than humans.
A Reusable water bottle is absolutely necessary. No plastic bottles sell on islands. A Nalgene Wide Mouth Bottle proves durable. A Reusable shopping bag is useful for mainland groceries. Reusable utensils or a spork are recommended for camping meals.
Reduce plastic waste.
For all your meals.
Practice Leave No Trace.
Green-minded.
Lay out all your gear prior to packing. This practice supports your visualization of what you possess and what might be missing, preventing forgotten items.
Consider renting bulky items like kayaks or specialized camping gear if you are flying, as mainland outfitters offer these services.
