What to Pack for Napa Valley. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Spring & Fall Wear

These seasons offer pleasant daytime temperatures but can cool down considerably in the evenings. Pack light to medium weight layers.

Summer & Winter Wear

Summer days are typically warm to hot; pack light, breathable clothing. Winter is the wettest and coolest season; pack warmer, waterproof layers.

Items

Summer: Shorts, skirts, dresses, light sweater, Sunglasses, Sun hat for Sun protection.
Winter: Sweaters, long pants, waterproof or Water-resistant jacket.
Closed-toe shoes or boots that withstand rain are recommended for winter.

Footwear Recommendations

Everyday Comfort

Comfortable Walking shoes or Sneakers are needed for sightseeing and winery exploration.

You will likely do more walking than expected.

Dressier Occasions

Pack a pair of dressier shoes for fine dining experiences or evening outings.

A more formal appearance is appreciated.

Outdoor Activities

For hiking, supportive Hiking footwear like Boots or Trail shoes are suitable. Waterproof shoes are good for winter.

Most trails are well-maintained.

Essential Documents

Critical Documentation

Careful organization of your travel documents helps ensure a smooth trip to Napa Valley. Keep these items secure and accessible.

Carry your original valid passport and visa documentation (if applicable).
Print or save digital copy of your travel insurance policy details.
International driving permit (IDP) if your license is not in English and you plan to drive.
Vaccination records and health documentation for emergencies.

Printed and digital copies of all reservations (accommodation, flights, wineries, restaurants).
Emergency contact information (family, embassy, travel insurance line).
Keep copies of all important documents separate from the originals.
Student/senior/press IDs for potential minor discounts at some attractions.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The U.S. Uses 120V and 60Hz. Type A and B sockets are standard. A universal travel adapter is needed if visiting from outside North America.

Power & Communication Items

A Power adapter or Universal travel adapter.
Consider a local SIM card (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) or an International eSIM for phone compatibility.
Wi-Fi is widely available and often free in hotels, wineries, and public areas.

Photography & Charging

Capture Napa Valley's beauty with appropriate camera gear. Keep devices charged throughout your day.

Camera & Power Recommendations

A good quality camera (DSLR, Mirrorless, or high-end Smartphone) with extra batteries.
A Portable charger or Power bank, such as an Anker.
Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) to back up photos and important documents.

Recommended Apps & Data Security

Navigation & Ride-sharing

Google Maps or Waze for directions. Uber and Lyft for transport between wineries or to dinner. A VPN like NordVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.

Reservations & Information

OpenTable for restaurants, Tock for high-end reservations. A local weather app for daily planning. Google Translate for quick translations.

Wine & Security

Vivino or CellarTracker for wine notes. ExpressVPN for secure connections. Cloud storage for data backup.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Essentials

A well-stocked personal kit can address minor issues quickly. Prepare a basic first aid kit for common travel ailments.

Kit Contents

Adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment (Adventure Medical Kits).
Pain relievers (Tylenol Extra Strength), allergy medication (Benadryl Allergy Relief), antacids.
Prescription medications (in original containers with documentation) in your carry-on luggage.

Sun & Insect Protection

Summers are hot with sun exposure. Protect your skin and deter insects.

Protection Must-Haves

Sun Bum Original Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 for skin.
Insect repellent like Sawyer Permethrin for clothing for ticks and insects.
A reusable Water bottle for hydration. Tap water is safe.

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Sickness

Napa Valley is not at high altitude.
Altitude sickness is not a concern here.
No specific remedies needed for altitude.

Motion Sickness

If sensitive to motion on winding roads (hills), Motion sickness medication can be useful.
For instance, Dramamine Nausea Relief.
Winding roads exist to wineries in the hills.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Consider what you plan to do before you pack for outdoor adventures.

A Small daypack for water, snacks, and layers.
Comfortable and supportive hiking shoes.
Trekking poles for longer or challenging hikes (optional).
Moisture-wicking clothing for warmer months.

Cycling Gear

Bicycles are readily available for rent. You can bring your own helmet and gloves.

Padded cycling shorts for comfort on longer rides.
A breathable top.
A Helmet (often provided with rentals).
Cycling gloves for grip and comfort.
A small Water bottle or Hydration pack.

Winery & Hot Air Ballooning

For wine purchases or hot air balloon rides, specific items are useful.

A Wine bottle protector for checked luggage.
A wine journal or Small notebook for tasting notes.
An aerator or corkscrew for enjoyment at lodging.
Layers of clothing and closed-toe shoes for hot air ballooning.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Rent These

Bicycles: Readily available for rent at local shops (Napa Valley Bike Tours, Calistoga Bike Shop).
E-bikes: Popular for easier hill climbing, also available for rent.
Hiking poles: Can be rented or purchased locally if desired.
Winery equipment: Tasting glasses and spit buckets are furnished by wineries.

Consider Bringing Your Own

Personal bicycle: Only if you are a serious cyclist on an extended tour.
Helmet: If you prefer your own, otherwise rental shops typically supply them.
Cycling gloves: For personal comfort and grip.
Swimming/Spa gear: A Swimsuit and Sandals if using pools or hot springs.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond the basics, a few extra items provide comfort, security, and convenience to your Napa Valley trip.

Travel Comfort & Safety

A Travel pillow, Eye mask and earplugs for rest during travel.
A Money belt or RFID-blocking wallet for security.
Small Luggage locks deter opportunistic theft.
Pacsafe for anti-theft bags.

Reusable & Specialty Items

Opt for reusable items to stay hydrated and reduce waste. Specialty items cater to wine enjoyment.

Sustainable & Wine-Specific Gear

A Reusable water bottle (LifeStraw is not needed as water is safe) for hydration.
A compact, Reusable shopping bag for purchases.
A corkscrew/wine opener and Wine travel case.
Portable, reusable Utensils for picnics.

Purchasing Locally

Availability

All common items are readily available in local stores and supermarkets.

Price Points

Items are found at various price points.

Specific Needs

If you have specific brand preferences or special needs, bring them.

Packing Strategy

Pack light; you can always purchase forgotten items.

Cultural Dress & Activity Attire

Cultural Etiquette

Napa Valley has no specific cultural dress code beyond general respect.
Avoid strong perfumes or colognes for wine tasting.
Smart casual is generally suitable for most wineries and restaurants.

Activity Specifics

Hiking: Comfortable shoes, moisture-wicking clothing.
Cycling: Padded shorts, breathable top, helmet.
Hot Air Ballooning: Layered clothing, closed-toe shoes.

Packing Pro Tips

Layering is your best friend in Napa Valley. Pack clothing that easily adds or removes as temperatures change throughout the day.

Pack light to make travel easier. You can always purchase items you forget in Napa Valley. Focus on essentials and comfort.

What to Pack for Napa Valley