Oregon, USA
Always begin with a moisture-wicking base layer. Add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or synthetic down. Finish with a Waterproof and windproof outer shell. This system aids comfort and warmth.
Specific clothing items are beneficial depending on the season for optimal comfort and protection.
Choose Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support for wet, uneven trails. Brands like Merrell Moab or Salomon are suitable.
Pack Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers for non-hiking days or exploring towns.
Include Water sandals for summer river access or water-based activities.
Carry both physical and digital copies of important papers. Keep copies separate from originals.
The U.S. uses Type A and B sockets (two flat parallel pins or two flat parallel pins with a grounding pin). The standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz. International travelers need a Universal travel adapter. If your devices operate on a different voltage (e.g., 220-240V), you may also need a Voltage converter, though most modern electronics are dual-voltage compatible.
Most modern smartphones work with U.S. mobile networks (GSM/CDMA). Consider purchasing a prepaid SIM card upon arrival from major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. Activating an ESIM plan before your trip is also an option. Check your phone's compatibility with U.S. frequencies. For internet privacy, a VPN such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN is useful.
A DSLR or Mirrorless camera with a Wide-angle lens is good for landscapes. A Tripod for waterfalls. Consider a Waterproof bag from B&H Photo.
Carry Portable chargers and power banks like an Anker PowerCore for devices during long outings.
Utilize cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or an External hard drive for photos and documents.
A well-stocked First aid kit prepares you for minor issues. Carry all prescription medications in their original containers with a doctor's note for international travel. Pack over-the-counter medications for common issues like upset stomach or cold/flu symptoms.
Protect against insects with repellents containing DEET or Picaridin. Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent is effective. Use broad-spectrum Sunscreen with SPF 30+ and Lip balm with SPF. While tap water is safe, a Portable water filter like a Sawyer Squeeze is valuable for backcountry use.
A Daypack like an Osprey Talon 22 is excellent for daily outings. Trekking poles aid stability. A Headlamp is wise for unexpected delays. Microspikes are useful for winter trails.
Wetsuits are often necessary for windsurfing or kiteboarding due to cold water temperatures. Tour operators and rental shops typically supply life vests for water activities. Consider Rash guards for sun protection and comfort.
If camping, pack a tent and a Sleeping bag suitable for the season. A sleeping pad improves comfort. A Portable stove is useful for cooking, and a cooler for food storage.
Improve comfort on flights or long drives with a Neck pillow and Eye mask. Secure valuables with a Money belt or an RFID-blocking wallet to deter electronic theft.
A reusable water bottle, like a Hydro Flask stainless steel bottle, helps reduce plastic waste. Carry a Reusable shopping bag, such as a Baggu reusable bag, for groceries or souvenirs. Reusable utensils or a straw further reduce waste. For navigation, physical maps like the National Geographic Columbia River Gorge Map are useful for areas with spotty cell service.
Reduces plastic waste on trails.
For groceries and souvenirs.
For cafes and avoiding disposables.
For eco-friendly device charging.
Roll your clothes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize your belongings and separate clean from dirty items.
