Pre-Trip Checklist: White Mountains

Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your preparations.

Stages

Organize your journey with this guide.

+ Months Ahead

Booking Lodging

Book Peak Season Accommodation: useful for fall foliage and holidays.

Rental Vehicles

Book Rental Car: Secure well in advance for availability and rates.

Travel Documents

International Travelers: Apply for U.S. Visa or ESTA: Process can take weeks/months.

Month Ahead

Itinerary Finalization

Finalize Itinerary: Daily activities, dining, and weather backups.

Trail Status

Check Trail Conditions: Review current trail conditions and permit needs.

Gear Checklist

Prepare Essential Gear: Clothing layers, broken-in boots, rain gear.

Week Ahead

Booking Confirmation

Confirm All Bookings: Double-check lodging, car, tours, flights.

Smart Packing

Pack Smart: Focus on layers, rain protection, appropriate footwear.

Offline Maps

Download Offline Maps: Maps for AllTrails, Gaia GPS, Google Maps.

Bookings & Reservations

Important reservations, especially during peak seasons.

Reservations

Accommodation (hotels, inns, vacation rentals, AMC huts).
Rental car.
Mount Washington Cog Railway tickets.
Mount Washington Auto Road timed entry (if applicable during peak times).

Home Preparation

Readying your home for departure.

Before You Go

Secure your home: Lock all doors and windows, set alarms.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery or arrange for neighbor collection.
Arrange for pet care if necessary.
Inform bank/credit card companies of travel dates.

Pre-Trip Research

Informed decisions for a smooth journey.

Weather Patterns

Research typical weather for your chosen season to pack appropriately.

Trail Conditions

Utilize the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) website and local ranger stations for up-to-date information on trail closures, ice, snow, or mud.

Road Closures

Check the New Hampshire Department of Transportation website for any road closures, notably in winter (e.g., portions of the Kancamagus Highway).

Careful Planning

Thorough preparation prevents complications, ensuring a focused and relaxed trip.

Arrival Checklist

Your first hours set the tone. A smooth arrival settles you quickly.

First Steps

1
Pick Up Rental Car
Inspect vehicle for existing damage before leaving the lot.
2
Navigate to Accommodation
Use your GPS or downloaded maps to drive to your lodging.
3
Check Into Lodging
Present your reservation confirmation and ID for check-in.

Orientation Strategies

Visit a Local Visitor Center
Stop at a visitor center to pick up local maps, brochures, and current advice.
Familiarize with Main Roads
Take a short drive or walk around your chosen base town to understand its layout and locate services.
Initial Purchases
Withdraw local currency (USD) from an ATM. Purchase necessities like Bottled water, snacks, or basic groceries.

Local Essentials

Currency

Withdraw local currency (USD) from an ATM. Ensure your credit cards are working.

Supplies

Purchase any immediate necessities like bottled water, snacks, or basic groceries for your accommodation.

Transport

A pre-arranged rental car is the most common and efficient method. Confirm your rental car pick-up details and driving directions beforehand.

Smooth Entry

A well-executed arrival sets the stage for a wonderful White Mountains exploration.

Departure Preparation

A thoughtful departure ensures a stress-free end to your White Mountains adventure and a smooth return home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure to avoid last-minute stress.
If you buy larger items or too many gifts, investigate shipping options from local post offices or UPS/FedEx stores.
Factor in shipping costs and time.
VAT Refund Procedures: Not applicable. New Hampshire has no sales tax, so no VAT refunds.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time to drive to the airport or your next destination, especially during peak traffic seasons or in winter conditions.
Factor in time for gas stops and potential delays.
Organize all travel documents for your return journey.
Pack your luggage carefully, ensuring any fragile souvenirs are protected.

Rental Car Return

Final steps for your vehicle.

Checklist

Fill the gas tank if your agreement requires it.
Allow time for the return inspection.
Remove all personal belongings.
Keep return documents.

Accommodation Departure

Leave your accommodation tidy.
Follow any check-out instructions from your hotel or rental property.
Return keys as instructed.
Ensure all windows and doors are closed and locked.

Hassle-Free Exit

A well-planned departure ensures a positive final impression of your White Mountains trip.

Pre-Trip Checklist