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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Nebraska, USA

Seasonal Attire

The Sandhills experiences noticeable temperature swings. Lightweight fabrics are suitable for summer, while heavy insulation is necessary for winter.

Clothing by Season

Activity Specific Wear

Select attire based on your planned activities for maximum comfort and practicality. Casual and functional clothing is typical for the Sandhills environment.

Gear for Exploration

Footwear for Varied Terrain

General Comfort

Bring Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sneakers for general wear in towns and light strolls.

Versatile for most situations

Outdoor Exploration

For varied terrain and potential wet conditions, consider Waterproof hiking boots for ankle support and moisture protection.

Ideal for trails and rugged paths

Water & Ranch Specific

Water shoes or old sneakers are for Niobrara River trips. Cowboy boots or durable work boots are practical for ranch activities.

Protection and grip for specific activities

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and accessible is a smart practice for any trip, especially when traveling internationally.

  • Passport & Visa: Valid passport, printed/digital copy of U.S. Visa or ESTA (IVisa or VisaHQ recommended).
  • Travel Insurance: Printed and digital copies of policy details (World Nomads or SafetyWing recommended).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If your home country driver's license is not in English. Carry original license too.
  • Health Docs: Vaccination records, doctor's note for chronic conditions/medications.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of accommodation, car rental, and tour bookings.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family, embassy/consulate, travel insurance emergency line.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student, senior, or press IDs if applicable for potential discounts.
  • AirHelp: For flight disruptions, consider AirHelp for compensation.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

While the Sandhills is a place for disconnection, some technology supports navigation, communication, and capturing memories. Power outlets are standard U.S. Type A and B (120V, 60Hz).

Essential Tech

Navigation & Backup

Due to long driving distances and limited charging points, carrying portable power and reliable navigation tools is wise. Cell service can be unreliable in many areas.

Preparedness Tools

Connectivity & Privacy

Mobile Hotspot

Consider a mobile hotspot from Verizon or AT&T for better connectivity in very remote areas.

VPN Service

For secure browsing, use a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, especially on public Wi-Fi.

Weather App

The NOAA Weather app for accurate forecasts and alerts for severe storms or blizzards.

Health & Wellness

First Aid Essentials

A well-stocked health kit is useful, especially in remote areas with limited pharmacy access. Keep prescription medications in original containers with documentation.

Kit Contents

Environmental Protection

Protect yourself from the elements and local insects. The dry climate and open landscapes make sun protection especially important.

Climate-Specific Protection

Specific Health Notes

Altitude Concerns

  • Altitudes in the Sandhills are moderate.
  • Generally not high enough to cause altitude sickness.
  • No specific altitude sickness remedies are typically needed.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness might arise on long, winding rural roads.
  • Bring your preferred Motion sickness medication if you are prone to it.
  • Stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen symptoms.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Camping

For trails and overnight stays, essential gear ensures comfort and safety in the outdoors.

Wildlife & Water Activities

Optimize your experience viewing wildlife and enjoying the Niobrara River with the right accessories.

  • Binoculars for distant wildlife observation.
  • Field guide for birds of the Great Plains.
  • Dry bag for protecting electronics on the river.
  • Life vests (typically provided by outfitters).

Rent vs. Bring

Determine what to rent locally and what to bring to streamline your packing.

  • Canoes, kayaks, tubes for Niobrara River: Easily rented from local outfitters in Valentine.
  • Paddles and life vests: Typically included with river rentals.
  • Camping gear: Rent in larger cities (Omaha, Lincoln) before arrival, as local options are limited.
  • Specialized riding boots: Guest ranches may provide if needed.

Equipping Your Adventure

Recommended to Bring

  • Personal medication and a comprehensive first aid kit.
  • Appropriate clothing layers for all weather conditions.
  • Reliable navigation tools, including offline maps.
  • High-capacity portable chargers for electronics.

Consider Renting Locally

  • Canoes, kayaks, and tubes for river activities.
  • Life vests and paddles (usually included with river rentals).
  • Specialized boots for horseback riding if offered by a guest ranch.
  • Large camping gear (tents, sleeping bags) if not flying with it.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

For long drives and general peace of mind, certain comfort and security items are beneficial for your journey.

Travel Aids

Everyday Essentials

These practical items are often overlooked but can greatly enhance your daily experience in the Sandhills.

Reusable & Practical

Convenience Items

Cooler

To keep drinks and snacks cold on long drives.

Offline Maps

Essential for navigation where cell service is unreliable.

Emergency Kit

A basic medical kit, consider Adventure Medical Kits.

Specialty Items

Bring specific toiletries or dietary items that may be hard to find.

Considerations for Specific Activities

Outdoor Comfort

  • Insect Repellent with DEET or Picaridin for ticks and mosquitoes.
  • Moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters during hiking.
  • Sturdy hiking shoes, preferably waterproof, for trails and varied terrain.

Ranching Attire

  • Durable jeans for horseback riding or other ranch activities.
  • Long-sleeved shirts for sun and brush protection.
  • Cowboy boots or sturdy work boots for grip and protection.

Packing Smart

Pack for versatility and self-sufficiency. The Sandhills environment means being prepared for varying conditions and limited services.

Consider the total weight and size of your luggage, especially if you have connecting flights. A durable travel bag like those from Nordace can accommodate essentials.