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Death Valley National Park Travel Checklist

Death Valley National Park Travel Checklist

Death Valley National Park California, USA Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Planning for a safe and enjoyable Death Valley trip.

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured timeline for your Death Valley adventure.

Advance Booking & Research

Secure components of your trip well in advance.

1

-6 Months Before

Book In-Park Lodging

The Inn, The Ranch, or Stovepipe Wells Village. Book quickly for popular dates.

Reserve Campgrounds

Furnace Creek Campground (reservable Oct-Apr) via Recreation.gov (6 months in advance).

Rental Car Reservation

Reserve rental car (high-clearance/4x4) early for busy periods.

2

-2 Months Before

Refine Itinerary

Daily plans, attractions, driving times, hiking routes.

International Travel Docs

Passport validity (6+ months), ESTA/U.S. Visa application (start early).

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip interruption. World Nomads.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Gear Check

Appropriate clothing, hiking shoes, hydration pack (Osprey Talon 22), headlamp.

Download Offline Resources

Offline maps (Google Maps) and NPS App content to phone.

Charge Electronics

Phone, camera batteries, portable chargers, satellite devices.

Pre-Trip Research

information to review before your visit.

Essential Checks

  • Review official NPS website for Death Valley: park regulations, safety guidelines, specific alerts.
  • Read a good guidebook about Death Valley for its history, geology, and best ways to explore.
  • Understand extreme environmental conditions: heat and dehydration dangers.
  • Verify required advance bookings and reservations for lodging/camping.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure.

Home Checklist

  • Secure home: lock doors and windows.
  • Set timers for lights for occupancy appearance.
  • Arrange for pet care.
  • Arrange mail collection and suspend newspaper delivery.

Last Minute Checks

Final steps 1-2 days before your trip.

Document & Weather

  • Check the latest detailed weather forecast.
  • Confirm flight, lodging, and rental car reservations.
  • Print physical copies of important documents and reservations as backup.
  • Notify bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

Packing & Tech

  • Begin packing essentials.
  • Pack comprehensive first aid kit (Adventure Medical Kits).
  • Include all prescription medications.
  • Pack sun protection and plenty of water bottles/containers.

Digital Prep

  • Download offline maps of Death Valley (Google Maps).
  • Download NPS App content to your phone.
  • Charge all electronics and portable chargers.
  • Charge any satellite communication devices.

Final Reminder

Review official NPS website immediately before departure for any last-minute alerts or road closures.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for smooth arrival in Death Valley.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Rental Car Pickup

    Pick up rental car from the airport (Las Vegas or Los Angeles).

  • 2
    Stock Up

    Stop in a gateway town (Pahrump, Ridgecrest, or Las Vegas) for water, groceries, snacks. Fill gas tank completely (fuel cheaper outside).

  • 3
    Drive to Park & Check-in

    Drive to Death Valley National Park. Check into pre-booked accommodation or first-come, first-served campground.

Orientation Strategies

  • Furnace Creek Visitor Center

    Make your first stop the Furnace Creek Visitor Center. Speak with a park ranger for current conditions, road closures, and personalized advice.

  • Park Map and Newspaper

    Pick up a physical park map and the latest park newspaper/visitor guide. These contain invaluable, up-to-date information.

  • Review Safety

    Review safety guidelines for the current season again, especially regarding heat and water consumption.

Additional Arrival Details

Currency & Purchases

Cash for small purchases or emergencies. Credit cards accepted at main facilities. Cash useful for smaller vendors or system outages.

Purchase any forgotten essentials at general stores.

Transportation to Accommodation

Follow your pre-planned route. Drive carefully and be mindful of speed limits, especially on winding desert roads.

Be aware of limited cell service, rely on downloaded maps.

Vehicle Preparedness

Ensure your car is in excellent condition before entering the park (check tires, fluids, cooling system).

Carry a spare tire, jack, and basic tools; breaking down in remote, hot areas can be life-threatening.

Arrival Tip

Prioritize stocking up on water and fuel in gateway towns before entering the park.

Departure Preparation

Departure preparations from Death Valley and the U.S.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs from official park stores or local businesses (supports park operations).
  • Shipping services not available inside the park.
  • Use post office/shipping center in a gateway town for mailing packages.
  • VAT refund procedures do not apply in the United States.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time for drive out of park (to Las Vegas/Los Angeles airports).
  • Account for rental car return and airport security.
  • Add buffer for delays (traffic, vehicle issues).
  • Confirm flight details and check in online if possible.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure nothing is left behind.

Checklist

  • Collect all belongings from accommodation.
  • Double-check rental vehicle for any trash.
  • Confirm no personal items are left behind.
  • Ensure all waste is packed out of the park.

Additional Notes

  • Keep all receipts for travel expenses.
  • Consider sharing travel experiences online after your trip.
  • Reflect on your Death Valley journey and its impact.
  • Review your photos and memories.

Departure Tip

Ensure all rental car procedures are complete before heading to the airport.

Consider traffic conditions, especially around major cities like Las Vegas or Los Angeles, when planning your departure time.