What to Pack & Bring: Great Basin

General Layering System

Synthetics (polyester, nylon) and wool are suitable over cotton for outdoor activities. They wick moisture, dry quickly, and provide warmth even when wet. A layering system adapts to fluctuating temperatures.

Layer Components

Base Layer: Moisture-wicking shirt and long underwear (lightweight for summer, mid-weight for spring/fall, heavy for winter).
Mid-Layer: Fleece jacket or a lightweight insulated jacket for warmth.
Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof shell jacket.

Seasonal Attire Notes

Summer: Lightweight, breathable, light-colored Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun. Shorts for lower elevations. Evenings and higher elevations may require a fleece or lightweight insulated jacket. A Lightweight, packable rain jacket like the Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket.

Cold Weather Attire

Spring/Fall: Mid-weight long-sleeved shirts and Convertible pants. Fleece and warm insulated jackets. Waterproof/windproof outer shell.
Winter: Thermal base layers, thick fleece, substantial insulated jacket. Insulated, Waterproof pants. Warm hat, insulated Gloves, and a Scarf.
Cultural Dress Code: The region is casual. Comfortable, practical outdoor wear is standard.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots

Sturdy, broken-in Hiking boots with ankle support and grip are suitable for uneven and rocky terrain. Waterproof boots for wet conditions or snowmelt. Consider Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots.

For varied terrains.

Casual Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes or Sandals are suitable for around camp, at visitor centers, or in town.

For leisure and comfort.

Winter Footwear

Insulated, waterproof winter boots with good traction are suitable for snow and ice. Consider microspikes for icy trails at higher elevations.

For snowy conditions.

Essential Documents

Documentation & Accessibility

Keep your important documents organized and secure.

Passport and Visa Documentation (for international travelers): Carry originals, with digital and separate physical copies.
Travel Insurance Policy Information: Have policy number, emergency contacts, and coverage summary accessible.
International Driving Permit (if applicable): Recommended if home country's driver's license is not in English; carry alongside valid license.
Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Not required for entry, but useful for medical emergencies (allergies, conditions, prescriptions).

Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: For accommodation, rental car, and Lehman Caves tours; cell service is spotty.
Emergency Contact Information: Physical list of important contacts (family, friends, embassy) for phone loss/damage.
Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): America the Beautiful Senior Pass for U.S. Citizens/permanent residents (62+); other discounts less common.
Local guidebooks or printed maps for navigation where connectivity is limited.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Power sources and connectivity may be limited in remote areas. Careful planning for your electronics is suitable.

Technical Considerations

Power Adapter and Voltage: U.S. uses Type A/B sockets (120V at 60Hz). International travelers require a Universal travel adapter.
Mobile Phone Compatibility and SIM Card Options: Most modern smartphones are compatible. Consider local SIM (Airalo eSIM is an option) or roaming. Verizon often has better coverage in rural Nevada.
Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent within Great Basin National Park itself.

Camera & Charging

Capture the beauty of the Great Basin. Adequate camera equipment and charging solutions are suitable.

Gear and Power

DSLR/Mirrorless Camera: For high-quality landscape and wildlife photography. B&H Photo has equipment.
Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Important given limited charging opportunities in remote locations. Portable chargers like Anker PowerCore.
Backup Solutions: Cloud storage or an External hard drive for photos and documents. Consider VPNs like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure connections.

Recommended Apps & Photo Gear

Offline Navigation

Download Google Maps or Apple Maps for the Great Basin National Park area. Cell service is unreliable, so offline access is suitable.

Weather & Park Info

A reliable weather app. The official NPS App for park information; download content for offline use.

Astrophotography

SkyView Lite or Star Walk 2 apps for celestial objects. A Sturdy tripod (Neewer Carbon Fiber Tripod) is necessary for astrophotography.

Health & Wellness Essentials

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health kit makes for a safer trip, especially in remote areas where services are distant.

Kit Contents

First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze. Pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), antihistamines, Moleskin, tweezers, small scissors, antiseptic cream. Consider Adventure Medical Kits.
Prescription Medications: Carry originals in containers, with a doctor's note for controlled substances. Enough for trip duration plus extra days.
Over-the-Counter Medications: Diarrhea relief, antacids, cold/flu remedies, mild laxatives.

Water & Hygiene

Maintaining hydration and personal hygiene is suitable for health in remote environments.

Purity and Personal Care

Water Purification: For backcountry water sources, a Portable water filter like the Sawyer Squeeze or Purification tablets are suitable.
Personal Hygiene Essentials: Small towns have limited options. Bring all personal care items. Consider Travel-size containers.
Insect Repellent & Sun Protection: Repellent with DEET/Picaridin. Broad-spectrum SPF 30+. Lip balm with SPF, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat. Treat clothing with Sawyer Permethrin for ticks.

Altitude & Motion Sickness Remedies

Altitude Adaptation

Altitude sickness prevention is main.
Some find Ibuprofen helpful for mild headaches associated with altitude.
Stay hydrated and ascend gradually to aid acclimatization.

Motion Sickness Solutions

Over-the-counter options like Dramamine address motion sickness.
Non-drowsy options or patches are available for extended relief.
Ginger supplements or chews can alleviate nausea.

Activity-Specific Gear

Hiking Gear

Durable gear supports comfort and safety on trails.

Daypack (15-30L): Osprey Packs Talon 22.
Trekking Poles: For steep or uneven trails.
Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 400.
Physical Map: National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map.

Camping Equipment

Essential items for comfortable and safe overnight stays.

Tent: Coleman Sundome.
Sleeping Bag: Rated for 20-30°F.
Sleeping Pad: For insulation and comfort.
Camp Stove, Cookware, Cooler: Coleman Xtreme 5.

Stargazing & Caving

Special items for unique park experiences.

Binoculars or Telescope: Enhance night sky viewing.
Star Chart/App: For identifying celestial objects.
Caving Helmet/Headlamp: Even though Lehman Caves is lit, a personal headlamp helps.
Rent vs. Bring: Snowshoes/cross-country skis sometimes rent for ranger programs. Bring most Camping gear.

Gear Acquisition Strategies

Bringing Your Own Gear

Own gear ensures familiarity and comfort.
Higher quality gear often provides better performance and safety.
Cost-effective for frequent travelers or those with specific needs.
No rental availability for most hiking and camping gear in the immediate park area.

Renting Gear

Seasonal availability for specific items like snowshoes or skis.
Avoids transportation of bulky items, reducing baggage costs.
Suitable for single-use activities or trying new sports.
Check local towns like Ely for potential rental shops, though park area options are limited.

Miscellaneous Essentials

Comfort & Security

These items enhance comfort during transportation and contribute to personal security.

Travel Comfort

A Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for long flights to hub airports.
Security Items: Locks for luggage.
A Money belt or RFID protection. A Travel money belt for secure, out-of-sight valuables.
Reusable Items: Water bottle, Shopping bag, Utensils.

Camping & Wildlife Essentials

Prepare for outdoor challenges and minimize your environmental impact.

Outdoor Preparedness

Durable insulated mug: Stanley Adventure Camp Mug.
Region-Specific Essentials: Detailed topographic map of Great Basin National Park (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map).
Bear Canister/Bag: For backcountry camping, check park regulations for food storage. Proper food storage protects wildlife.
Items Difficult or Expensive to Purchase Locally: High-quality outdoor gear, specific dietary items (gluten-free, vegan specialty foods), prescription medications.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste and costs.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For groceries and souvenirs.

Portable Utensils

Avoid single-use plastic cutlery.

Water Filter

For safe water from natural sources.

Destination-Specific Gear

Hiking & Exploring

Topographic maps for accurate navigation.
Binoculars for wildlife viewing and stargazing.
Compass for traditional navigation alongside GPS.

Personal Comfort & Safety

Wide-brimmed hat for extensive sun protection.
High-quality sunglasses for intense high-altitude light.
Comprehensive first aid kit for remote areas.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light but smart. Roll clothes to save space. Use packing cubes for organization. Weigh your bag before departure to avoid airline excess baggage fees.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your luggage. Keep a small bag for toiletries and immediate access items in your carry-on. Always keep valuables and essential documents in your carry-on.

What to Pack & Bring