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What to Pack for Redwood National Park

What to Pack for Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park California, USA Travel Guide

Layering for Comfort

Weather can change quickly. Pack versatile layers that you can add or remove as needed.

Essential Layers

Seasonal Clothing

Adjust your layers based on the season of your visit.

Seasonal Guidance

  • Summer (June-September): Lighter layers, but still include rain gear for possible fog or mist. Shorts are fine, but long pants are good for trails (ticks, poison oak).
  • Fall & Spring (April-May, Oct-Nov): Heavier mid-layers. Prepare for steady rain; Waterproof pants are a good idea.
  • Winter (Dec-March): Warmest layers. Thermal underwear, an insulated waterproof jacket, and waterproof pants. A Warm hat and Gloves are necessary.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots

Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and grip are good for trails, which can be muddy or uneven.

Rugged terrain ready

Casual Shoes

Bring Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers for visitor centers and towns.

Relaxed walking

Specialty Footwear

For river activities or beach walks, pack Water shoes or Sandals. Bring multiple pairs of moisture-wicking Hiking socks (wool or synthetic).

Water-friendly options

Required Documents

Travel Documents

It is a good idea to have both printed and digital copies of all important documents.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Valid passport (6+ months validity), U.S. Visa or ESTA approval.
  • Health Documentation: Vaccination records, medical alerts, prescription list, doctor's note for controlled substances.
  • Reservations: Copies of accommodation bookings, rental car confirmations, tour bookings, and park permits (Tall Trees Grove).
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family, friends, doctor, embassy/consulate details.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Recommended if your domestic license is not in English; carry with original.
  • Travel Insurance: Printed and digital copies of your policy, with emergency contact numbers.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student, senior (AARP), or press IDs if you qualify for discounts.
  • Offline Maps: Download maps for park areas due to spotty cell service.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The U.S. uses 120 V, 60 Hz electricity. Plug types are Type A and Type B. A Universal travel adapter is good for international travelers. Check if devices are dual voltage (100-240V) or if a Voltage converter is needed.

Mobile & Internet

  • Most modern smartphones work with U.S. Networks. You can buy a local SIM card (T-Mobile, AT&T) or use eSIM (Airalo).
  • Cell coverage within Redwood National Park can be spotty.
  • Consider a VPN for secure browsing, such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Camera & Power

For high-quality landscape and wildlife photography, bring a DSLR or Mirrorless camera. A Wide-angle lens for redwoods, and a Telephoto lens for wildlife.

Gear & Apps

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for photos and documents.

Local Backups

An External hard drive or USB drive provides local backups.

Device Protection

A Waterproof bag or cover protects camera equipment from rain or mist.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

Pack a standard Travel first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Always carry enough prescription medications in their original packaging with pharmacy labels and a doctor's note.

Park-Specific Additions

Protection & Purification

Always use DEET-based repellent for ticks and mosquitoes. For Sun protection, bring high-SPF sunscreen, a Wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses.

Water & Hygiene

  • Water purification: A Portable water filter or Purification tablets if you plan extensive backcountry hiking. Otherwise, Bottled water or tap water from park facilities is generally safe.
  • Personal hygiene items: Standard hygiene items are available in U.S. Stores; travel-sized versions are good for convenience.
  • Altitude sickness is not typically a concern for Redwood National Park. If winding roads cause motion sickness, bring appropriate remedies.

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Sickness

  • Generally not a concern as park elevations remain low.
  • No specific precautions needed for elevation.
  • Focus on hydration for general well-being.

Motion Sickness

  • Winding roads, especially on scenic drives, might cause motion sickness.
  • Bring over-the-counter motion sickness medication.
  • Ginger candy or other natural remedies can provide relief.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

A Daypack (15-30L) holds water, snacks, and layers.

Camping Gear

A tent, like a Coleman Sundome Tent, is a good option.

  • A Sleeping bag (rated for 30-40°F/0-5°C).
  • Sleeping pad, camp stove, fuel, and cooking utensils.
  • A cooler for food storage.
  • Bear-resistant food storage is required at some backcountry sites.

Photography Specifics

Bring your camera, lenses, Tripod, extra batteries, memory cards, and a cleaning kit.

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Advantages of Renting

  • Avoids bringing bulky items on a plane.
  • Good for specialized Camping gear (tents, sleeping bags).
  • Local outdoor retailers in Arcata or Eureka may offer rentals.
  • Reduces luggage weight and airline fees.

Advantages of Bringing Your Own

  • Ensures a comfortable fit for personal items (hiking boots, daypacks).
  • Familiarity with your own gear.
  • No need to check availability or book rentals in advance.
  • More cost-effective for frequent travelers who own gear.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Bring comfort items for transportation like a Neck pillow or Eye mask. For security, use TSA-approved luggage locks and consider Pacsafe anti-theft bags.

Personal Security

  • A Money belt or hidden passport pouch protects important documents and cash.
  • An RFID-blocking wallet or sleeves protect credit cards and passports.
  • Consider a personal safety alarm for solo travelers.
  • Keep an inventory of packed items.

Practical & Eco-Friendly Items

Carry a Reusable water bottle. Many places offer water refill stations. Bring a Reusable shopping bag; some stores charge for plastic bags.

Waste Reduction & Region-Specific

  • Pack Reusable utensils or a straw to reduce waste.
  • A bug net or head net can be useful for mosquitoes, especially near water or in marshy areas during dusk.
  • A Quick-drying towel is good for camping or unexpected wetness.
  • Most common items are available in towns like Crescent City, Arcata, or Eureka.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste; refill at visitor centers.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Minimizes single-use plastic bag consumption.

Portable Utensil Set

Avoids disposable cutlery when eating out or picnicking.

Small Solar Charger

Eco-friendly charging for small electronics on the go.

Park-Specific Considerations

Wildlife Viewing

  • Binoculars are useful for spotting Roosevelt elk and various bird species.
  • A Telephoto lens is good for wildlife photography.
  • A field guide for local flora and fauna.

Trail Navigation & Safety

  • Offline maps on your phone or a physical map are good due to patchy cell service.
  • A bear canister or bear-resistant food storage for backcountry camping.
  • A Headlamp or flashlight for early morning or late evening excursions.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize items within your luggage. Keep liquids in clear, sealed bags to avoid spills and meet airline regulations.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase. Wear your bulkiest items (like hiking boots) on travel days to save luggage space. Create a checklist to avoid forgetting essentials.