Montana Rocky Mountains, USA Travel Guide
For summer (June-August), pack lightweight, breathable clothing like t-shirts, shorts, and Convertible pants. Long-sleeved shirts offer Sun protection. A medium-weight fleece or light insulated jacket for cool evenings. A Waterproof and windproof rain jacket and Rain pants are essential for thunderstorms. Bring a Swimsuit for lakes or hot springs. A Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses protect from the sun.
For fall (September-October), pack warmer base layers, a mid-weight fleece or Light down jacket, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Bring a Warm hat, Gloves, and thermal Socks. Long pants are also suitable. For winter (November-March), heavy-weight Thermal base layers, an insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof, insulated Winter jacket and Snow pants are vital. Insulated hats, gloves, and wool socks are key.
Sturdy, broken-in Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are ideal for most trails. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a popular choice.
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for towns. Water shoes or Sandals (e.g., Keen Newport H2) are practical for water activities.
Waterproof, insulated Winter boots with good traction are required for snow and ice. Camp slippers are useful for evenings.
Carry these important documents and their copies.
The U.S. uses Type A and B outlets (120V, 60Hz). International travelers need a Universal travel adapter. Most modern electronics are dual voltage. Mobile carriers are AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile. Most modern international phones are compatible. Consider a prepaid SIM card or eSIM upon arrival; Verizon often has the best rural coverage.
For high-quality photography, bring your DSLR or Mirrorless camera with extra batteries and memory cards. A Telephoto lens is helpful for wildlife. A Wide-angle lens captures expansive landscapes. A Tripod is needed for low-light shots. Drones are prohibited in all U.S. National Parks. Store camera gear in a Protective camera bag.
Utilize Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for automatic photo backups during your trip.
Carry an External hard drive or USB stick for additional photo backups, especially if taking many pictures.
Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi. Also consider Airalo for eSIM.
Pack a thoughtful selection of health and wellness items. A standard First aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze, medical tape, pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), allergy medication, and Anti-diarrhea medication. Include blister treatment, insect bite relief (Hydrocortisone cream), and tweezers. Carry all prescription medications in original containers with documentation.
For backcountry use, filter or treat all water from natural sources. Options include a Portable water filter (e.g., Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter), Purification tablets (e.g., Katadyn Micropur Forte), or a UV water purifier. Common toiletries are available locally, but bring specific brands you need. Carry a small, portable container of Hand sanitizer.
A Backpack (Day pack like Osprey Hikelite 18 or multi-day), Hiking poles (e.g., Black Diamond Trail Ergo), and a Headlamp or flashlight (e.g., Black Diamond Spot 400). For camping: tent, Sleeping bag, pad, Portable stove (e.g., Jetboil Flash), and cooler. Always have map and compass or GPS with offline maps.
Fishing: rod and reel, tackle box, waders (for fly fishing), Montana fishing license. Wildlife viewing: Binoculars (e.g., Vortex Optics Diamondback HD) are useful for spotting animals from a safe distance. Consider renting larger items like tents or rafts if you only need them for a few nights to save on luggage space.
Skis/snowboard, boots, bindings, poles, helmet, goggles, and appropriate winter clothing (e.g., Ski jacket, snow pants). Rent bear spray upon arrival from outdoor shops. It cannot be flown. Microspikes and snowshoes are seasonal rental items. Personal items like a Personal first aid kit and prescription medications are best brought from home.
For transportation comfort, pack a Travel pillow (e.g., Trtl Neck Pillow), Eye mask and earplugs, and a warm blanket. For security, Travel locks for luggage, a Money belt or RFID-blocking wallet, and a small Personal alarm.
A cooler is essential for road trips and camping; purchase one locally upon arrival. A detailed Montana Road & Recreation Atlas is highly recommended as a backup to digital maps due to unreliable cell service. Binoculars are vital for abundant wildlife viewing. Specialty hiking gear can be expensive in small-town outdoor stores; consider purchasing these before your trip. Prescription medications should be brought from home. Bear spray is available locally but cannot be flown.
Reduces plastic waste.
For groceries and souvenirs.
Minimizes single-use plastics.
Eco-friendly device charging.
Always pack an extra pair of socks. Wet feet are uncomfortable and can lead to blisters quickly.
Wool socks regulate temperature and wick moisture well, keeping your feet comfortable in varied conditions.
