MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Amish Country

What to Pack for Amish Country

Amish Country Pennsylvania, USA Travel Guide

Spring & Summer Attire

Spring (April-May): Days can be mild, but evenings remain cool. Pack Long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a light-to-medium weight jacket. A waterproof outer layer, like a Rain jacket or Umbrella, serves well for spring showers. The landscape turns green, so Comfortable walking shoes are good for exploring.

Summer June-August

  • Temperatures range from warm to hot, often with high humidity.
  • Choose lightweight, breathable clothing made from cotton or linen. Shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses are suitable for daytime.
  • Evenings can be cooler, or indoor spaces might be heavily air-conditioned, so a Light jacket or sweater is good to have.

Autumn & Winter Attire

Autumn (September-October): This season brings mild days and cool evenings. Layering clothes is again important. Pack long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket. A Light scarf adds warmth. The fall foliage is beautiful, making comfortable walking shoes or Light hiking shoes good for scenic strolls.

Winter November-March

  • Prepare for cold temperatures, with possibilities of snow and ice.
  • A warm Winter coat is a must, along with sweaters and geothermal layers. Pack a hat, Gloves, and a scarf for warmth.
  • Waterproof boots are recommended if snow or slush is expected, to keep your feet dry and warm.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Pack at least one pair of comfortable Walking shoes or sneakers. You will likely spend a lot of time on your feet exploring markets, farms, and towns.

Comfort is for extensive walking.

Weather-Appropriate

If you're there in winter, waterproof boots are highly recommended. For summer, breathable Sandals or open-toed shoes are comfy, but always carry a closed-toe option for extensive walking.

Be ready for varying conditions.

Dressier Options

If you plan on fine dining or evening events in Lancaster City, a pair of dressier shoes may be appropriate, but are not necessary for most activities.

Casual attire is suitable for most places.

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Have both physical and digital copies where possible to keep them secure and accessible.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: For travelers from abroad, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your trip date. Carry your U.S. Visa or ESTA approval.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Bring physical and digital copies of your travel insurance policy. This includes policy numbers, emergency contact, and coverage details.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): If you plan to drive and your driver's license is not in English, an IDP is recommended. Obtain this before your trip.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Carry copies of any relevant vaccination records, especially if advised by your healthcare provider. For prescription medications, carry a doctor's note or a copy of the prescription.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Have printed and digital confirmations for accommodations, tours, rental car, and any pre-booked activities. This speeds up check-in.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Make a list of emergency contacts, including family members, your country's embassy or consulate in the U.S., and local emergency numbers (like 911). Retain this in your wallet and phone.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts: If you qualify for any discounts (e.g., student, senior, military, AARP), bring your identification cards. Many attractions reduce admission for certain groups.
  • General Modesty: No strict dress code for visitors, but dressing modestly shows respect for the Amish community and their values.

Technology & Electronics

Power and Connectivity

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. If you are traveling from a country with a different voltage or plug type, you will need a Universal travel adapter. Check if your electronics are dual voltage (100-240V).

Mobile and Internet

  • If not dual voltage, you might require a Voltage converter for specific appliances.
  • Most modern international mobile phones are compatible with U.S. Networks. Consider purchasing a local SIM card from a major U.S. Provider or activating an ESIM.
  • Rural some locations could have limited cell service from some carriers. Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Camera and Chargers

The scenic landscapes and unique cultural elements make Amish Country a great place for photography. A versatile camera (a good Smartphone camera is often sufficient) works well.

Accessories and Apps

Data Backup & Security

Backup Photos

Regularly save copies of photos and key papers to cloud storage (e.g., Google Photos, Dropbox) or an External hard drive. This protects your memories and information if your device is lost or damaged.

Money Protection

A Money belt worn under clothing secures cash and passports. An RFID-blocking wallet or passport holder protects credit cards from electronic theft.

Luggage Security

A Small padlock for securing luggage zippers or hostel lockers (if you're based in nearby cities with hostels) is a good idea. Consider Pacsafe anti-theft bags.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A small personal health kit helps address minor issues and comfort during your travels. A Basic first aid kit is useful. Include items from Adventure Medical Kits.

Kit Contents

Medication and Protection

Carry all prescription medications in their original, clearly labeled containers. If possible, bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor explaining your medical condition and the need for the medication.

Sun and Insect Protection

Personal Hygiene Essentials

Standard Toiletries

  • Pack your standard toiletries. These are easily found in local stores.
  • Consider solid toiletries (Shampoo bars, soap) to save space and reduce liquid limits for flying.

Over-the-Counter Medications

  • Bring small quantities of common over-the-counter drugs you use regularly for headaches, colds, or digestive upset.
  • Include motion sickness medication if you are prone to it.
  • While these are available locally, having them on hand saves time during your trip.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking/Walking Gear

If you intend to do a lot of walking or light hiking, suitable shoes are most important. Trekking poles are generally not needed for the mild terrain.

  • Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
  • Light hiking shoes for longer walks.
  • Breathable socks for comfort.
  • Light backpack for day trips.

Cycling Equipment

If you plan to hire bikes, helmets are often included with rentals. If you bring your own bike, remember your Helmet. Padded shorts make longer rides comfortable.

  • Cycling helmet (if bringing own bike).
  • Padded cycling shorts for comfort.
  • Lightweight, athletic clothing.
  • Water bottle for hydration.

Photography Gear

Beyond your camera (B&H Photo has gear), consider extra batteries, memory cards, and a lens cloth. Consider a compact drone if permitted for stunning aerial landscape shots.

  • Extra camera batteries.
  • Plenty of memory cards.
  • Lens cleaning cloth.
  • Portable tripod for stability.

Equipment Decisions: Rent vs. Bring

Items to Rent

  • Bicycles: Easily rented from several local shops in Lancaster and surrounding towns. Renting is often more practical than bringing your own.
  • Specialty Items: For most typical Amish Country experiences (buggy rides, farm tours, market visits), no highly specialized equipment is necessary.
  • Baby/Child Gear: Strollers and car seats are large items. If flying, check with your airline. Rental services for baby gear may be available in larger cities like Philadelphia.
  • Sports Gear: You will not need climbing gear, extensive camping equipment (unless camping), or specialized water sports gear.

Consider Bringing

  • Personal Prescription Medications: Always bring these in original packaging with doctor's notes.
  • Favorite Camera Lenses: If you have specific photography needs, bring your preferred lenses.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for all travelers, regardless of other activities.
  • Personalized Comfort Items: like a specific travel pillow or blanket for longer drives.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security for Travel

Beyond the basics, a few extra items foster comfort, convenience, and security during your trip.

Travel Comfort Items

  • Travel Pillow: Useful for longer car rides, especially if you are the passenger.
  • Eye Mask and Earplugs: Beneficial for light sleepers or for resting on your trip.
  • Comfortable Headphones: For listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks during drives.
  • Money Belt: Worn under clothing, helps secure cash and passports.

Reusable & Region-Specific Items

Embrace sustainability plus local experiences with these additional items.

Eco-Friendly & Local Must-Haves

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water is safe; this lowers plastic waste and saves money.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: Many local markets and shops charge for bags; useful for carrying items purchased from farmers markets.
  • Reusable Utensils/Straw: For reducing waste from takeout meals.
  • Physical Map of Lancaster County: Cell service can be spotty in rural areas. A paper map serves as a reliable a copy for navigating scenic backroads plus discovering smaller, unmarked farm stands.

Travel Planning Essentials

Notebook & Pen

For jotting down notes, addresses, or insights gained during your trip.

Light Packing

Generally, you will not find anything difficult to purchase in The Amish region or nearby Lancaster City if you forget something.

Local Stores

Standard U.S. Retail options are available for almost anything you might need, from toiletries to clothing.

Brand Availability

Specific brands or specialty items might not be immediately available in smaller towns.

Clothing Considerations

Cultural Dress Code

  • Choose clothing that is not overly revealing. Avoid very short shorts, miniskirts, or revealing tops.
  • When visiting Amish-owned businesses, markets, or interacting with Amish individuals, modesty in dress is appreciated.
  • If you visit any religious sites in the wider area, modest attire (covering shoulders and knees) is generally expected.

Activity-Specific Attire

  • Hiking/Walking: Sturdy walking shoes are good for exploring trails or towns.
  • General Sightseeing: Comfortable walking shoes are good, as many attractions and towns involve walking.
  • Buggy Rides: Dress comfortably for the weather. Consider a blanket or extra layers for rides in cooler weather, as you shall be exposed to the elements.

Packing Pro Tips

Create a packing list and check items off as you pack. This practice helps confirm you do not forget anything important and avoids last-minute stress.

Consider rolling your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles in your Travel bag. This method helps organize your belongings efficiently.