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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Pennsylvania, USA

Spring & Summer Attire

Spring (April-May) temperatures can be cool, warming to pleasant. Mornings and evenings are cool. Summer (June-August) brings warm to hot conditions, with humidity. Evenings can be cooler, especially after rain.

Packing Essentials

Fall & Winter Attire

Fall (September-October) brings crisp, pleasant temperatures. Mornings and evenings become significantly cooler. Winter (November-March) is cold, often below freezing, with common significant snowfall.

Packing Essentials

Footwear Recommendations

Spring & Fall

Waterproof Hiking boots or sturdy Walking shoes for trails. Comfortable Sneakers for town exploration.

Traction is a factor

Summer

Comfortable sneakers, athletic Sandals, or walking shoes. Water shoes for lake/river activities. Light hiking shoes suffice for most trails.

Water-ready options

Winter

Waterproof, insulated Winter boots with good traction for snow and ice. Look for boots with deep treads. Warmer everyday casual shoes. Year-round: Comfortable walking shoes are always a useful item.

Essential for snow

Essential Documents: Your Travel Toolkit

Critical Documentation

Carry both physical and digital copies of all important documents securely, separate from the originals, to safeguard your trip.

  • Valid Passport & Visa/ESTA documentation.
  • Travel insurance policy information, including emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation.
  • Printed and digital copies of all reservations (flights, hotels, car).
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy/consulate).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Doctor's note for prescription medications.

Technology & Electronics: Staying Connected and Charged

Power & Connectivity

The United States uses Type A/B outlets (120V at 60Hz). If your devices operate on a different voltage (e.g., 220-240V), a Voltage converter alongside a Plug adapter is needed. Many modern electronics are dual-voltage, requiring only a Universal travel adapter.

Mobile Phone & SIM Options

  • Check device label for "Input: 100-240V, 50/60Hz" for dual-voltage.
  • Consider purchasing a local prepaid SIM card (e.g., Verizon for rural coverage) or an eSIM for data. Airalo is an option.
  • Portable chargers (>10,000mAh) are indispensable for long days.

Camera & Apps

The Poconos offer many scenic photo opportunities. A Mirrorless camera or a Smartphone with a good camera will capture memories. A Wide-angle lens for landscapes is an option. B&H Photo has options.

Recommended Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps or Apple Maps (download offline maps).
  • Weather: AccuWeather or The Weather Channel.
  • Rideshare: Uber or Lyft (where available).

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Regularly back up photos and documents to cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or a Small external hard drive.

VPN Services

Use a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure Wi-Fi connections, especially on public networks.

RFID Protection

An RFID-blocking wallet or passport holder protects against electronic theft.

Health & Wellness Items: Staying Healthy on Your Trip

First Aid & Medications

A First aid kit with essentials is important for minor injuries and common ailments. Bring enough of your prescription medications for your entire trip, plus a few extra days' supply, in original labeled containers with documentation.

Kit Contents

Protection & Personal Care

Insect repellent and sun protection are important due to the climate. Repellent with DEET or picaridin is highly recommended from spring through fall due to ticks and mosquitoes. Bring travel-sized personal hygiene essentials.

Essentials

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness

  • Pocono elevations typically do not pose altitude sickness risks.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if active in higher elevations.
  • Pace yourself on strenuous hikes.

Motion Sickness

  • Winding roads may trigger motion sickness for some.
  • Bring appropriate over-the-counter medication if susceptible.
  • Ginger candy or crackers sometimes provide relief.

Activity-Specific Equipment: Gear for Your Pursuits

Hiking Essentials

Comfortable Hiking boots (broken-in!), a Daypack for water, snacks, and layers. Trekking poles are optional but useful on uneven terrain.

  • Moisture-wicking tops & bottoms for comfort.
  • Avoid jeans for longer hikes.
  • Pack layers for temperature changes.
  • Good quality socks reduce blisters.

Skiing & Snowboarding

Your own outerwear (Jacket, Pants, Gloves), goggles, and helmet if preferred. Thermal base layers are important for warmth.

  • Ski socks (thin, tall, moisture-wicking).
  • Equipment rental widely available at resorts.
  • Helmets are often recommended or required.
  • Full gear rental means no bulky equipment needed for flying.

Water Sports & Cycling

For water activities (kayaking, boating): Swimsuit, quick-dry clothing, water shoes. Life vests are typically provided. For cycling: your own Bike helmet if you prefer, Cycling gloves.

  • Boat rentals are widely available.
  • Bike rentals exist near popular rail trails.
  • No "Pocono-specific" equipment beyond general Sports gear.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

When to Rent

  • Bulky or specialized items: skis, snowboards, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards.
  • Equipment for activities you will only do once or twice.
  • Items that are difficult to transport (e.g., if flying).
  • Ski resorts and lake/river outfitters offer rental options.

When to Bring Your Own

  • Smaller, personal items: your own comfortable hiking boots (fit is important).
  • Ski goggles, gloves, and daypacks.
  • Your own Bike helmet for comfort and hygiene.
  • Niche brands or specialized equipment not easily found locally.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves: The Small Things That Matter

Comfort & Security Items

Do not overlook these useful items for a more comfortable and secure trip. A Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Noise-canceling headphones enhance travel comfort. An RFID-blocking wallet and small Travel locks add security.

Essential Additions

Reusable Items for Responsible Travel

Most standard travel items are available in local stores, but specific niche brands might be harder to find.

Sustainable Packing

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Toiletries

Refillable travel containers.

Energy-Efficient Devices

Charge and conserve power.

Recyclable Bags

For waste and purchases.

Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

Minimizes environmental impact.

Destination-Specific Items

Rural Area Considerations

  • Offline maps for navigation due to spotty cell service.
  • Consider a car charger for devices during drives.
  • A compass for deep forest hikes is helpful.

Seasonal Specifics

  • Extra camera batteries for cold weather shooting.
  • An umbrella or lightweight rain jacket for spring/summer showers.
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing, especially in state parks.

Packing Pro Tips

Thoughtful packing prepares you for the diverse experiences the Pocono Mountains offer, ensuring your focus remains on enjoyment and exploration.

Pack clothes that mix and match to create multiple outfits, thereby allowing you to pack lighter.