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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

New Hampshire, USA

Summer & Fall Attire

Pack lightweight Hiking pants or shorts and quick-dry tops for summer. A light fleece or Windbreaker proves useful for evenings or summits. Rain gear is necessary for unexpected thunderstorms. For fall, warmer mid-layers are needed. Long pants are comfortable.

Layering Essentials

Winter & Spring Attire

Heavy base layers (top and bottom) offer thermal insulation for winter. Insulated mid-layers (down or synthetic) provide warmth. A waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants are necessary for snow and wind. For spring, dress similar to fall, emphasizing waterproof outer layers, and expect mud.

Cold Weather Gear

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots

Sturdy, Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are paramount. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are popular.

Wear moisture-wicking Socks to prevent blisters.

Casual Shoes

Pack Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers for exploring towns, visiting attractions, or lighter walks.

Ideal for less rugged terrain.

Winter Boots

Insulated, waterproof winter boots with good traction are necessary for cold and snowy conditions. Sorel Caribou Boots offer warmth and grip.

Microspikes or crampons for icy trails.

Essential Documents

Important Travel Documents

Carry both physical and digital copies where appropriate for important documents.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation for international visitors.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable).
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information, including emergency contacts.
  • Emergency Contact Information (family, friends, local services).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for discounts (if applicable).
  • Doctor's note for prescription medications.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The United States uses standard voltage (120V) and Type A/B outlets. International travelers will obtain an appropriate universal travel adapter.

Connectivity Tips

Photography & Navigation

A durable camera capable of handling varied lighting and weather conditions is useful. Pack extra batteries, as cold weather drains them faster. A wide-angle lens captures expansive landscapes.

Essential Tech

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox to back up photos and copies of important documents.

VPN Services

For secure internet use, consider VPN services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, especially on public Wi-Fi.

Device Security

Keep devices password-protected. For peace of mind regarding valuables, a Money belt or RFID-blocking wallet may be used.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit addresses minor ailments and unexpected injuries, contributing to an uninterrupted trip. Customizing your First aid kit with specific needs provides peace of mind.

Kit Contents

  • Blister treatment (Compeed), pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), antihistamines.
  • Antiseptic wipes, bandaids, gauze, medical tape. Tweezers, Moleskin.
  • Prescription medications (in original containers), physician's note. Over-the-counter remedies for common issues (Anti-diarrhea).

Protection & Purification

Water purification options are necessary for backcountry excursions.

Safety Measures

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

A Backpack, water bottles or Hydration reservoir, navigation tools (National Geographic map), and a Headlamp (Black Diamond Spot 400) with extra batteries.

  • First-aid kit, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent.
  • Whistle, knife or multi-tool, fire starter, emergency blanket.
  • Extra food and water, warm layers, rain gear.
  • Appropriate Hiking footwear (Trail shoes). Hiking poles are useful.

Skiing/Snowboarding Gear

Skis/snowboard, bindings, boots (rentable), and poles (for skiing). A helmet is highly recommended, along with goggles. Insulated, waterproof ski jacket and pants are essential, with gloves or mittens.

  • Thermal base layers and ski socks.
  • Neck gaiter or balaclava for face protection.
  • Gear rentals are widely available at resorts and local shops.
  • Bringing your own well-fitting hiking boots and backpacks is preferred.

Camping Gear

Tent, Sleeping bag (appropriate temperature rating), sleeping pad. Cook stove and fuel, cooking pot, utensils, dish soap, sponge. Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food. Water purification.

  • Bear-resistant food container or bag (required in some WMNF backcountry areas).
  • Trowel and toilet paper.
  • Headlamp and first-aid kit.
  • Appropriate clothing for cold nights. Camp chairs (optional).

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Items to Rent

  • Ski/Snowboard Gear: Widely available at resorts and local shops.
  • Snowshoes: Available at ski shops and outdoor centers.
  • Fat Bikes: Some bike shops offer fat bike rentals for winter riding.
  • Rock Climbing Gear: Guided trips often include gear rental.

Items to Bring

  • Hiking Boots: Personal fit enhances comfort and prevents blisters.
  • Backpacks: A properly fitted backpack enhances comfort.
  • Rain Gear and Warm Layers: Personal items that provide adequate protection.
  • Personal First-Aid Kit: Customizing your kit to specific needs.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Convenience

Small items that enhance comfort during travel and support sustainable practices.

Travel Comfort

Specialty Hiking Items

For winter hiking, consider specialized traction and gear. For general hiking, a detailed guide and signaling tools are beneficial.

Winter & General Hiking

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste; fill up anywhere.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Avoid bag fees and support local efforts.

Reusable Utensils

Minimize single-use plastics from takeaways.

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Biodegradable options for outdoor use.

Destination-Specific Items

Hiking Specifics

  • A detailed physical map is always beneficial, not just phone apps.
  • A compass or GPS device aids navigation, specifically off-trail.
  • The AMC White Mountain Guidebook offers detailed trail descriptions.

General Considerations

  • Be prepared for rapid weather changes at any time of year.
  • Waterproof gear is due to frequent precipitation and mud season.
  • Consider items that are difficult or expensive to obtain locally.

Packing Pro Tips

Layering clothing is your best strategy. Always pack rain gear, even in summer. Check weather forecasts frequently.

Consider renting bulky equipment like skis or snowshoes to minimize luggage. Personal fit items like hiking boots are best brought from home.