What to Pack for North Dakota. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Summer Clothing June-August

Focus on lightweight and breathable materials for warm weather comfort.

Items

Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen, moisture-wicking synthetics). Shorts, t-shirts, light Long-sleeved shirts for Sun protection.
A Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or air-conditioned indoor spaces.
A Rain jacket or Packable umbrella for sudden thunderstorms. A Wide-brimmed hat and Sunglasses against strong sun.

Fall & Spring Layers March-May, Sept-Nov

Layering is for variable temperatures during shoulder seasons.

Layering Essentials

Layers: Start with a short-sleeved base, add a long-sleeved shirt, and then a Fleece jacket or sweater.
A Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket offers protection against the elements.
Jeans or hiking pants are good choices for bottoms. A Warm hat, Gloves, and Scarf for cooler travel.

Footwear Recommendations

Summer June-August

Pack Comfortable walking shoes, Sandals, and Sturdy hiking shoes or boots for trails.

Versatile & Comfortable

Fall/Spring Shoulder Seasons

Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes are good choices for varied conditions.

Water-resistant & Grip

Winter December-February

Insulated, waterproof winter boots with good traction. Brands like Sorel are good options. Comfortable shoes for walking around towns.

Warm & Slip-resistant

Required Documents

Prepare Your Travel Papers

Preparing your documents ahead of travel simplifies your journey.

Passport and Visa Documentation: Non-U.S. Citizens must carry these. Keep physical and digital copies separate from originals.
Travel Insurance Policy: Have your policy number, emergency contact details, and coverage information readily available.
International Driving Permit: Recommended for foreign visitors planning to drive, carried with a valid foreign driver's license.
Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Wise for personal medical history, especially with chronic conditions or allergies.

Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Keep copies of your accommodation, rental car, flight, and tour bookings.
Emergency Contact Information: Create a list of family or friends, your doctors, and specific medical information (allergies, current medications).
Student/Senior/Press IDs: Check for potential discounts at attractions or museums.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensure your devices are compatible and powered for your trip.

Voltage & Adapters

Voltage: The standard voltage in the U.S. Is 120 V at 60 Hz.
Plug Type: The U.S. uses Type A and Type B plugs (two flat parallel pins, Type B with grounding pin).
Adapter: International travelers need a Universal travel adapter if their devices use different plug types.

Mobile Phone Options

Stay connected with local phone services.

SIM Cards & Coverage

Compatibility: Most modern smartphones are compatible with U.S. Networks (GSM/LTE/5G). Confirm your phone is unlocked before traveling.
SIM Card Options: Major U.S. Carriers include AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. You can purchase Prepaid SIM cards at airports, carrier stores, or online.
Coverage: Verizon generally provides the best rural coverage in North Dakota.

Photography & Data Management

Camera Equipment

A camera with a good zoom lens works well for wildlife viewing in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Binoculars are also highly recommended for wildlife observation.

Portable Power

Portable chargers and power banks are useful for long drives and outdoor excursions where charging outlets are scarce. Consider a High-capacity power bank.

Data Backup

Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox, or bring a small Portable SSD for photos and important documents.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical Preparedness

Be ready for common health needs and ensure comfort during your travels.

Supplies

Destination-Specific First Aid Kit: Standard bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, Anti-diarrhea medication, and allergy medication.
Prescription Medications: A sufficient supply in original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription from your doctor.
Over-the-Counter Medications: Pack medications for common issues like headaches, colds, or digestive upset.

Personal Protection

Protect yourself from sun and insects, especially during outdoor activities.

Sun & Insect Essentials

Insect Repellent and Sun Protection: Use for outdoor activities, especially in summer. Apply sunscreen (SPF 30+), Lip balm with SPF, and Insect repellent.
Water Purification Options: Not necessary for tap water. If backpacking in remote areas, a Portable water filter might be a consideration.
Personal Hygiene Essentials: Most major brands are available in North Dakota stores, but bring preferred items if you have specific needs. Hand sanitizer is always useful.

Health Awareness

Common Health Concerns

Dehydration and Sunburn: Concerns in summer due to dry air and strong sun. Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen regularly.
Insect Bites: Mosquitoes occur in summer. Ticks pose a risk in grassy areas, though Lyme disease risk is low. Apply insect repellent.
Weather-Related Illnesses: Heat exhaustion/stroke in summer; frostbite/hypothermia in winter. Dress appropriately and monitor symptoms.

Specific Conditions

Allergies: Seasonal pollen allergies can be high in spring/summer. Pack usual medication if affected.
Altitude Sickness: Generally not a concern in North Dakota, as elevations are low to moderate.
Motion Sickness: Not typically a major concern for general travel within the state.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Essential items for exploring trails and nature.

Quality hiking boots
A Day pack
Water bottles or a Hydration reservoir
Trekking poles for challenging trails

Camping & Fishing

Gear for outdoor stays and aquatic activities.

Camping: Tent, Sleeping bag, pad, stove, cooler.
Fishing: Rod, tackle, and appropriate licenses (purchased locally).

Winter Sports

Equipment for snow-based recreation.

Skis, snowshoes, ice skates, or snowmobile gear.
Much of this equipment is available for rent locally.
High-quality cold weather clothing if owned.

Equipment Decisions

When to Rent Equipment

Snowmobiles, ATVs, kayaks or canoes, and some fishing boats are typically rented.
Renting works well for one-time use or specific activities where bringing your own gear is impractical.
Renting limits luggage and simplifies transport logistics.

When to Bring Equipment

Your personal hiking gear (boots, daypacks) or specialized fishing tackle are items to consider bringing.
High-quality cold weather clothing, if you own it, is generally better to bring for comfort and fit.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

These additional items contribute to comfort and security during travel.

Smart Packing Additions

Comfort Items for Transportation: A Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for long drives or flights.
Security Items: A Small padlock for luggage and a Money belt are good to have, though North Dakota is generally a safe state.
Reusable Items: Bring a Reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink), a Reusable shopping bag, and Reusable coffee cup.
Region-Specific Essentials: A good roadmap or North Dakota atlas for rural areas where cell service can be spotty. A car phone charger or inverter for long drives. A small cooler for drinks and snacks on road trips.

Unique North Dakota Essentials

Items specifically tailored for North Dakota experiences.

Items for Exploration

Wildlife Viewing: A good camera and long-range binoculars are useful, especially in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Winter Visits: Warm layers and cold weather gear are necessary for winter experiences.
Local Purchases: Generally, most common items are available in larger towns. Specialized outdoor gear might be limited to specific stores in Fargo or Bismarck.
Vehicle Preparedness: A car phone charger or an inverter for your car is useful for long drives. A small cooler for drinks and snacks makes road trips more pleasant.

Sustainable Travel Additions

Reusable Water Bottle

Tap water is safe to drink throughout North Dakota.

Reusable Shopping Bag

A good practice for environmentally conscious travel.

Reusable Coffee Cup

For your daily caffeine while on the go.

Physical Map/Atlas

Useful in rural areas where cell service can be spotty.

Activity-Specific Reminders

For Wildlife Viewing

A good camera with a zoom lens.
Long-range binoculars are highly recommended.
Especially useful in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

For Winter Adventures

Warm layers are essential.
High-quality cold weather outer gear.
Proper footwear for snow and ice.

Packing Smart for North Dakota

Pack layers to accommodate temperature changes. Always consider seasonal weather conditions and check forecasts.

Verify road conditions before long drives, especially important during winter months.

What to Pack for North Dakota