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What to Pack for Everglades National Park

What to Pack for Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Florida, USA Travel Guide

Dry Season Clothing Nov-Apr

Days are pleasant; evenings can be cool. Layering is a good choice for temperature fluctuations.

Recommended Apparel

Wet Season Clothing May-Oct

This season is hot, humid, and rainy. Prioritize materials that dry quickly and offer maximum ventilation.

Recommended Apparel

  • Very lightweight, loose-fitting, breathable clothing (moisture-wicking synthetics or light cotton).
  • Long sleeves and pants for mosquito protection, even in heat.
  • A Swimsuit if swimming outside the park or at nearby beaches.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking

Comfortable, broken-in Walking shoes or light hiking shoes with good traction. Waterproof shoes for wet trails.

Good traction is

Paddling

Wear Water shoes or old Sneakers that can get wet for canoeing or kayaking.

Prepare to get wet

General Wear

Sandals or flip-flops for casual wear at accommodations, but not for park activities.

Comfort for downtime

Essential Documents

Important Papers

Keep these documents secure and easily accessible throughout your trip. Digital and printed copies are wise.

  • Passport and visa documentation for international travelers.
  • Travel insurance policy information, including emergency contact numbers.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if your domestic license is not in English.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation (e.g., severe allergies, medical conditions).
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations (accommodation, car rental, tours).
  • Emergency contact information for family/friends and your local embassy/consulate.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (e.g., Senior Pass for US citizens/residents 62+).
  • Keep all documents in a secure, accessible location.

Technology & Electronics

Connectivity & Power

Ensure your devices are compatible and powered for use in the U.S. And within the park's remote areas.

Device Preparation

Photography & Apps

Capture the beauty of the Everglades and navigate effectively with the right tools and applications.

Camera & Digital Tools

  • Camera equipment: Good zoom lens (200-400mm) for wildlife. Binoculars are highly recommended. Find gear at B&H Photo.
  • A Waterproof camera bag or Dry bag for paddling.
  • Recommended apps: Google Maps (offline maps), AllTrails, NOAA Weather App, Merlin Bird ID, iNaturalist.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud services for automatic photo and document backup.

External Drive

An External hard drive or USB for physical backups of important data.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure internet browsing on public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Essentials

A well-stocked first aid kit addresses common minor injuries and ailments that may occur during outdoor activities.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

Protection from the strong Florida sun and pervasive insects is paramount for comfort and safety in the Everglades.

Defensive Gear

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude

  • Not a concern for Everglades National Park.
  • The park is at or near sea level.
  • No special precautions are needed for high altitudes.

Motion Sickness

  • Could be an issue on choppy boat tours.
  • Over-the-counter remedies are available if susceptible.
  • Consider sitting in open areas on boats for fresh air.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking

For exploring trails and boardwalks.

Paddling

For canoeing or kayaking on the waterways.

Camping

For overnight stays in designated campgrounds or backcountry.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Rentable Items

  • Canoes/kayaks: Available at Flamingo and Gulf Coast (seasonal).
  • Bicycles: Available at Shark Valley Visitor Center.
  • Check rental availability and pricing in advance.

Items to Bring

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Ensure your journey is comfortable and your belongings stay secure with these practical additions.

Travel Aids

Park-Specific & General Items

These items are especially beneficial for exploring the unique environment of the Everglades.

Specialty Gear

  • A high-quality Bird field guide for identifying diverse bird species.
  • An Everglades-specific trail map (National Geographic Trails Illustrated are good).
  • Most common items are readily available in supermarkets and pharmacies in towns surrounding the park.
  • High-end outdoor gear might be more expensive or limited in selection in smaller towns, consider purchasing before arrival.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste, stay hydrated.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For groceries and souvenirs.

Headlamp/Flashlight

Energy efficient lighting for evenings.

Digital Guides/Maps

Minimize paper waste.

Destination-Specific Items

Wildlife Viewing Gear

  • High-quality binoculars for bird and wildlife observation.
  • Camera with a good zoom lens for capturing wildlife from a distance.
  • A park map and compass (or GPS on phone) for trail navigation.

Water Activities Gear

  • Water shoes or old sneakers for wet activities.
  • Waterproof dry bag to protect electronics and valuables while paddling.
  • Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection on the water.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light for ease of travel, but do not skimp on essentials for sun, insects, and hydration. Layers adapt well to Florida's climate shifts. Consider packing cubes to organize clothing and gear within your luggage.

For convenience and to avoid unexpected costs, bring all prescription medications and any specialty items you may need that are not readily available in smaller towns near the park.