Great Basin Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach helps with trip organization.

Booking & Documents

Secure major arrangements well in advance.

3-6M

Months Before

Flights

Book flights from abroad to LAS or SLC go early for better prices.

Rental Car

Secure your rental car, consider 4WD while discovering rough roads.

Lehman Caves Tours

Book specific tour times via Recreation.gov; they sell out quickly.

3-6M

Months Before Cont.

Campgrounds

Reserve preferred campsites within the park early, especially in the summer.

Accommodations

Book hotels in Baker or Ely early, especially during peak season.

Passport/Visa

Confirm passport validity and apply for ESTA or visa if needed.

1M

Month Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering health crises and travel changes. World Nomads is an option.

Gear Check

Inventory and purchase hiking, camping, and stargazing gear. Eagle Creek has packing solutions.

Fishing License

If fishing is planned, buy your Nevada fishing license online.

Required Advance Bookings

Confirm these popular activities well in advance.

Reservations

Lehman Caves tours fill up quickly.
In-park campgrounds are well-liked selections.
Any hotels in Baker, Nevada, have limited availability.
Secure these bookings to avoid disappointment.

Final Week Preparations

Last-final checks for a smooth departure.

Checklist for the Week Before

Lay out all clothing and gear, focusing on layers.
Download offline maps, park content, and emergency contacts.
Obtain smaller units of currency of U.S. Dollars for isolated places.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for an easy entry and start to your adventure.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Pass through border control and customs at LAS or SLC.
Pick up your reserved rental vehicle.
Make a stop for groceries in Sin City, Salt Lake City, or Ely.
Stock up for staying in a tent or self-catering.

Orientation Strategies

Make Great Basin Visitor Center your first stop.
Pick up physical maps and current alerts.
Talk to a green space ranger for up-to-date recommendations.
Ranger advice is a good source of information.

Currency & Transportation

Use ATMs at airports or in Ely to withdraw cash.
Buy your park entrance pass or use your America the Beautiful Pass.
Drive your rental car directly to your booked accommodation.
Allow ample the right time for the drive (3.5-5 hours from airports).

Final Confirmation

Reconfirm all flight, rental car, accommodation, and excursion bookings prior to your trip. Check the Great Basin National Park website for any final-minute road blocks or alerts.

Departure Checklist

A few final steps for a smooth departure.

Souvenirs & Shipping

1
Purchase Souvenirs
Acquire mementos at park shops for gifts or in Ely before you depart.
2
Think About shipping
For larger items, mailing them home from the U.S. Post Office in Ely might be simpler than carrying them on your flight.
3
Customs Awareness
Familiarize yourself with your home country's customs regulations regarding imported goods.

VAT/Sales Tax & Timing

No VAT Refunds
The U.S. Does not have a federal VAT or GST system offering refunds to tourists; sales tax is not refundable.
Pre-Departure Timing
Allocate ample time (4-5 hours) for the drive back to LAS or SLC airport from the park.
Airport Procedures
Factor in additional time (2-4 hours) for rental car return, airport check-in, and security screening.