MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Yellowstone Montana

What to Pack for Yellowstone Montana

Yellowstone Montana Montana, USA Travel Guide

Layering for Comfort

Dressing in layers is to adapting to Yellowstone's variable climate. Each layer serves a specific purpose for warmth, moisture management, and safety.

Essential Layers

Seasonal Attire Guide

The specific items you pack depend heavily on the season of your visit. Each season has unique conditions that clothing must address.

What to Wear When

  • Summer (June-August): Light layers for day, warmer layers for cool evenings. Shorts, T-shirts, long pants, a Light jacket, and a Rain jacket.
  • Spring/Fall (May & Sep-Oct): Mid-weight to heavy layers. Long-sleeve shirts, fleece, a Down jacket, a Warm hat, Gloves, and a waterproof outer shell.
  • Winter (Nov-April): Heavy winter clothing. Insulated Waterproof jacket and pants, multiple warm layers, thermal underwear, heavy hat, gloves/mittens, and warm Socks.

Footwear for All Terrains

Hiking Boots

Bring sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support and waterproof features. Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoes make a suitable option.

Ideal for trails and varied terrain.

Casual Walking Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes, like athletic sneakers, suit paved areas, visitor centers, and town exploration.

For paved paths and relaxed strolls.

Winter Boots

Insulated, waterproof Winter boots with good traction are required for snow and ice conditions.

Useful for frigid conditions and snow.

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Paperwork

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents issues during your trip. Have both physical and digital copies.

  • Travel documents (for international visitors).
  • Details of your travel coverage (with contact numbers).
  • International Driving Permit (if home license is not English/lacks photo).
  • Vaccination records and health documentation.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations (flights, car, accommodation, tours).
  • Emergency contact information (family, doctor, embassy/consulate).
  • Concession Cards (if applicable).
  • Copies of important medical history or prescription details.

Technology & Electronics

Connectivity & Power

Plan for restricted connectivity within the park while ensuring your devices remain powered. Cell service can be spotty or non-existent in large portions of Yellowstone National Park.

Connectivity Essentials

  • Power adapter and voltage: U.S. uses A/b TYPE sockets, 120V at 60Hz. Converters may be necessary.
  • Mobile phone compatibility: Most modern smartphones are compatible. Consider a prepaid U.S. SIM card (Airalo for eSIM).
  • Portable chargers: Necessary due to limited charging. The Anker PowerCore 20100 is a reliable choice.

Camera & Digital Prep

Capture Yellowstone's beauty with appropriate camera gear. Also, ensure your online data stays protected, as connectivity can be a challenge.

Photography & Data Tips

Secure Your Digital Footprint

Cloud Storage

Back up important photos and documents to a cloud service regularly.

Physical Backup

Carry a small, portable External hard drive for on-the-go data security.

VPN Usage

Utilize a Virtual Private Network (NordVPN, ExpressVPN) for secure internet access on public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

Comprehensive First Aid

A well-stocked health and wellness kit prepares you for common travel ailments and environmental factors unique to Yellowstone.

Your Essential Kit

Environmental Protection

Protect yourself from the elements, including strong sun and insects, which are prevalent during warmer months. High elevation amplifies UV rays.

Sun & Bug Defense

Specialized Remedies

Altitude Adaptation

  • Gateway towns sit at considerable elevations (5,300-6,700 feet).
  • Symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue.
  • Hydrate well and acclimatize gradually; Ibuprofen can alleviate mild headaches.

Motion Sickness Solutions

  • Winding roads, especially Beartooth Highway, can induce motion sickness.
  • Dramamine aids with motion sickness on roads with many turns.
  • Personal hygiene essentials are widely available in gateway towns, but specialty items could not be.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

To be safe and comfortable hike, beyond appropriate clothing and footwear, purpose-built kit is needed.

Wildlife Viewing Gear

To make the most of Yellowstone's abundant wildlife, binoculars or a placeting scope are highly recommended.

  • Binoculars (Nikon PROSTAFF 3S)
  • Spotting scope
  • Wildlife identification guide
  • Quiet clothing

Winter Sports & Fishing

Specialized gear transforms Yellowstone into a a snowy spectacle for snow sports and offers prime conditions for fishing.

  • Cross-country skis or snowshoes
  • Insulated winter boots and goggles
  • Fishing rod, reel, tackle
  • Yellowstone fishing permit

Gear Acquisition Strategy

Recommended to Rent

  • Snowmobiles for winter park exploration.
  • Snow coaches for comfortable winter park access.
  • Cross-country skis and snowshoes for winter sports.
  • Fishing gear, if you don't fish regularly.

Recommended to Bring

  • Personal hiking gear (boots, daypack) you are comfortable with.
  • Binoculars for consistent wildlife viewing.
  • Bear spray; while available for rent/purchase, bringing your own ensures readiness.
  • Specialty items you use often and trust.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to your overall comfort, security, and convenience, especially during long travel days or in unfamiliar environments.

Traveler Comforts

Yellowstone Specifics

Certain items are notably useful for a Yellowstone trip, improving your experience given the park's remoteness and limited in-park services.

Region-Specific Essentials

  • Cooler: Necessary for packing lunches, snacks, and drinks for long days in the park, where food options are limited.
  • Road map/Atlas: Bring a physical map in case GPS or cell service becomes unavailable.
  • Waterproof dry bag: A small, Waterproof dry bag for electronics and important documents protects them from unexpected rain or splashes.
  • Cash: Useful for small purchases or vendors in remote areas where card payments may not be accepted.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste and stays hydrated.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For groceries and souvenirs, minimizing single-use bags.

Travel Mug

For hot beverages on the go, reducing disposable cup use.

Reusable Cutlery Set

Avoids single-use plastics when eating on the go.

Yellowstone Specific Considerations

For Park Exploration

  • Binoculars or a spotting scope for enhanced wildlife viewing.
  • Wildlife identification guide.
  • Physical park map for areas without cell service.

For Safety & Comfort

  • Bear spray (learn proper use).
  • Comprehensive first aid kit for minor injuries.
  • Headlamp or flashlight for early mornings/evenings.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack a small, Waterproof dry bag for electronics and important documents. This protects them from unexpected rain or splashes during outdoor activities.

High-quality outdoor gear can be expensive in gateway towns. Consider purchasing these items in advance from your home country to save on costs.