What to Pack & Bring: Olympic National Park

Layering & Season-Specific Attire

Layering assists with managing temperature fluctuations throughout the day.

Layering Essentials

Base Layer: Moisture-wicking fabrics (synthetic, merino wool). This layer moves sweat away from your skin, contributing to warmth and dryness.
Mid-Layer: Insulating layer for warmth. A Fleece jacket or lightweight puffy jacket. This layer delivers warmth.
Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof shell jacket and pants. This outer layer shields you from rain, wind, and light snow, keeping your inner layers dry.

Seasonal Clothing Recommendations

Prepare for various conditions across seasons and elevations.

What to Wear by Season

Summer (July-Aug): Lightweight hiking pants/Convertible pants, Short-sleeved shirts, light puffy jacket, Lightweight rain jacket and Rain pants.
**Spring/Fall (Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct):** Heavier mid-layers, waterproof outer layers. Warm hat, Gloves for higher elevations. Wool Socks for warmth.
Winter (Nov-Mar): Warmest Base layers, insulated puffy jacket, heavy-duty waterproof shell and Pants, insulated Waterproof boots.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots

Merrell Men's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot or similar Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are ideal for trails, especially in wet conditions.

Important for varied terrain

Casual Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes or trail runners suit visitor centers and easy strolls.

For relaxation and easy walks

Coastal Footwear

Waterproof sandals or sturdy waterproof shoes suit beach walks, specifically for tide pool exploration.

Protects from water and rocks

Essential Documents

Documentation

Organized documents ease travel and assist with any unexpected issues.

Passport and visa documentation (valid for 6 months beyond stay). Digital copies stored securely.
Travel insurance policy information (printed and digital copies).
International driving permit (IDP) if needed, alongside home country license.
Vaccination records and health documentation (doctor's letter for allergies/conditions).

Printed and digital copies of all reservations (accommodation, car rental, park permits).
Emergency contact information (family, friends, doctor, embassy/consulate).
Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (if applicable). U.S. Citizens/residents with Senior Pass save on park entry.
A rental car is the virtually mandatory choice for exploring Olympic National Park due to its size and dispersed attractions.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel often includes technology. Plan your electronic needs carefully.

Connectivity & Charging

USA Travel Plug Adapter and Voltage converter (if devices are not dual voltage).
Mobile phone compatibility and SIM card options (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon). Consider Airalo for eSIM.
Portable chargers and Power banks (Anker PowerCore 20000 Portable Charger).

Camera & Navigation

Capture memories and find your way with appropriate gear.

Photography & Software

Camera equipment (DSLR/Mirrorless), Wide-angle and Telephoto lenses, Tripod, weather-sealed Camera bag. Visit B&H Photo for gear.
Offline Maps (Google Maps, Apple Maps, AllTrails). Cell service throughout much of the park is limited, so offline maps aid navigation.
Backup solutions (cloud storage, External hard drive).

Data & Digital Security

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for secure browsing: NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Privacy Protection

A small lock for luggage or hostel lockers offers security. A Money belt or RFID-protected wallet keeps valuables and payment cards safe.

Digital Copies

Store digital copies of documents on your phone and on a cloud service. Physical printouts also offer organization.

Health & Wellness

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked health and wellness kit handles minor issues and readies you for emergencies.

First Aid Kit Contents

A basic REI Co-op First-Aid Kit or similar. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, moleskin, pain relievers.
Prescription medications (in original packaging with doctor's note). Over-the-counter remedies like Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, antihistamines, Anti-diarrhea medication.
Personal hygiene essentials. Consider biodegradable soap for camping.

Sun & Insect Protection

Protect yourself from the elements and pests.

Outdoor Protection

Insect repellent (Sawyer Products Picaridin for mosquitoes and ticks).
High SPF Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 or similar Broad-spectrum sunscreen. Lip balm with SPF.
Sunglasses for UV protection.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Concerns

Altitude sickness unlikely unless high-elevation mountaineering.
No specific medications needed for general park visits.
For technical climbs, consult a doctor for advice.

Motion Sickness

Winding park roads can cause motion sickness.
Pack Motion sickness medication if prone.
Consider sitting in the front seat of vehicles.

Activity-Specific Gear

Hiking & Backpacking

Your planned activities guide specialized equipment needs.

Daypack (Osprey Talon 22) or multi-day Backpacking pack.
Trekking poles (Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork).
Headlamp (Petzl Actik Core).
Navigation: National Geographic Map, compass, GPS, Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator.

Camping Gear

Ensure a comfortable and safe overnight stay.

Tent (Coleman Instant Cabin Tent for car camping).
Sleeping bag (REI Co-op Down Sleeping Bag) rated for expected temperatures.
Sleeping pad (Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite).
Cooking stove, fuel, cookware if self-catering.

Winter Sports & Other

Gear for snow activities and wildlife viewing.

Snowshoes or cross-country skis (rentable in Port Angeles).
Gaiters (to keep snow out of boots).
Avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe) for complex terrain.
Binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Good to Rent

Snowshoes and skis can be rented in Port Angeles.
Bear canisters sometimes rent from park visitor centers or outdoor gear stores.
Specialty items for one-time use.
Bulky items not easily transported.

Better to Bring

Most hiking and Camping gear.
Specialized photography equipment.
Personal clothing (high-quality rain gear, specific hiking boots).
Items for which proper fit or personal preference is important.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These additional items enhance your comfort and security.

Travel Essentials

Comfort items for transportation (Neck pillow, Eye mask, etc.). A comfortable journey contributes to a better start to your adventure.
Security items (locks, Money belt, RFID protection). A small lock for luggage or hostel lockers offers security.
Reusable items (Water bottle, Shopping bag, Utensils). A Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle contributes to hydration and lessens plastic waste.
Offline downloaded maps and park information. Cell service is poor throughout much of the park, making pre-downloaded information .

Region-Specific Essentials

Items unique to Olympic National Park experiences.

Park-Specific Items

Bear spray: Consider carrying if hiking in bear country. Park regulations about its use and transportation should always be checked. Proper use before your trip is a good idea.
National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map Olympic National Park: Aids navigation within the park.
Tide charts: For coastal exploration, a tide chart helps avoid being trapped by incoming tides (e.g., Hole-in-the-Wall at Rialto Beach).
High-quality rain gear and specific hiking boots: Purchase in advance so you have suitable gear; selection may be limited in small towns.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Useful for groceries.

Reusable Cutlery Set

For packed meals.

Biodegradable Soap

Minimizes environmental impact.

Destination-Specific Gear

Coastal Exploration

Tide chart: for safe beach exploration, notably in areas with sea stacks.
Binoculars: For marine wildlife viewing (whales, sea birds, seals).
Small dry bag: To protect electronics and valuables from mist and rain.

Rainforest & Lakes

Headlamp/flashlight: Even during the day, the rainforest canopy can make trails dark.
Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other biting insects appear, especially in warmer months.
Microfiber towel: For drying gear or personal use after wet activities.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack clothes in waterproof stuff sacks or plastic bags inside your backpack to keep them dry in wet conditions.

Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Consider a packable duffel bag for souvenirs or extra gear.

What to Pack & Bring