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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

South Dakota, USA

Seasonal Clothing

Spring/Fall: Layers are very important due to variable temperatures. Pack light jackets, a fleece, and Long-sleeved shirts. Include a Waterproof and windproof outer shell, like a Waterproof rain jacket. Mornings might be chilly, warming significantly by afternoon.

Summer Apparel

  • Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime. Shorts and t-shirts work well.
  • Bring long pants and a Light jacket or fleece for cooler evenings.
  • Thunderstorms are possible, so a Light rain jacket will be useful.

Winter & Activity Wear

Winter: You will need warm, insulated layers. Include Thermal base layers, a fleece, a Down jacket, and a waterproof outer shell. Pack a Warm hat, Gloves, and a Scarf. These items are for comfort in cold, snowy conditions.

Activity-Specific Attire

  • Hiking: Wear moisture-wicking activewear for comfort.
  • Swimming: Pack a Swimsuit for lakes or hotel pools.
  • Formal Events: Smart casual attire for upscale restaurants or casinos.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Footwear

Bring sturdy, broken-in Hiking boots or Trail shoes. They are important for varied terrain and long walks.

For trails and rugged paths.

General Walking

Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers are suitable for exploring towns and paved paths.

For town exploration and light walks.

Winter & Summer Specific

Summer: Sandals or open-toed shoes for casual wear. Winter: Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction are needed for snow and ice.

Adapt footwear to the season.

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Keep your important documents organized and accessible. Consider using a Travel document organizer for security.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation (international visitors).
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information (physical and digital copies).
  • International Driving Permit (with home country license if applicable).
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations (accommodation, car rental, tours).
  • Emergency Contact Information (family, friends, embassy/consulate).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable).
  • U.S. Driver's license (for U.S. Citizens).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

U.S. Outlets are Type A and B, operating at 120V, 60Hz. International travelers need a Universal travel adapter to use their devices. A Power adapter compatible with U.S. standards will be useful.

Mobile Phone & Apps

  • Mobile Phone: U.S. Carriers use GSM/LTE/5G. Most international phones are compatible.
  • SIM Card Options: Purchase from AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or resellers. Consider Airalo for eSIMs.
  • Recommended Apps: Google Maps, AllTrails, NPS App, weather apps.

Camera & Power

For capturing landscapes and wildlife, a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile lens is helpful. A Telephoto lens is especially useful for wildlife. A GoPro Hero 11 Black works well for adventure activities.

Charging & Backup

Data Backup & Online Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox to automatically sync important documents and photos.

External Drives

Carry a portable External hard drive for local backups, especially for large media files.

VPN Services

For secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi, consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

Prepare a personal health kit for minor issues and prevention. A compact Travel first aid kit is advised.

Kit Contents

  • Include First aid kit with Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment, tweezers.
  • Carry prescription medications in original containers with documentation.
  • Bring cold and flu remedies, antacids, and Anti-diarrhea medication.

Protection & Hydration

Use DEET-based insect repellent for ticks and mosquitoes. High-SPF Sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat, and sunglasses protect from the strong sun. Access to clean water is usually straightforward.

Water & Hygiene

  • Water Purification: Not needed for tap water. A Filtered water bottle or Purification tablets are useful for backcountry.
  • Personal Hygiene: Most items are readily available in local stores in Rapid City and other towns.
  • Consider Sun protection for high elevation and clear skies.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Remedies

  • Higher elevations, like Black Elk Peak (7,242 ft), might affect sensitive individuals.
  • Pack relevant altitude sickness remedies if you are prone to it.
  • Stay hydrated to help prevent altitude effects.

Motion Sickness Solutions

  • Winding roads in the Black Hills can cause motion sickness.
  • Bring appropriate motion sickness remedies.
  • Consider sitting in the front seat if driving or riding.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

A Daypack (e.g., Osprey Talon 22), Hiking poles, and a Water bladder or bottles are useful. Bring your own hiking boots for best comfort.

  • Daypack (Osprey Talon 22 example)
  • Hiking poles for support
  • Water bladder or bottles
  • Personal hiking boots (bring, do not rent)

Camping Essentials

A Tent, sleeping bags, Sleeping pads, and cooking gear are needed for comfortable camping. Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season.

  • Tent and sleeping bags
  • Sleeping pads for comfort
  • Cooking gear and utensils
  • Campsite reservations

Viewing & Navigation

Binoculars enhance your ability to spot and observe animals from a safe distance. A Black Hills area map assists navigation in areas with limited cell service.

  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Black Hills area map for navigation
  • Rent bikes, kayaks, paddleboards
  • Personal gear for comfort and fit

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Items to Rent

  • Bikes: Available for rent at some bike shops in Rapid City, Hill City, Spearfish.
  • Kayaks/Paddleboards: Available for rent in lake areas like Pactola Lake and Sylvan Lake.
  • Other Specialty Gear: Check local outfitters for specific activity needs.
  • Rental options save luggage space and shipping hassle.

Items to Bring

  • Personal Hiking Gear: Boots and preferred daypack for comfort and fit.
  • Essential Documents: Always carry these for direct access.
  • Prescription Medications: Do not rely on local availability for these.
  • Camera Equipment: If you have specific lenses or bodies, bring them.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Comfort items for transportation include a Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs, making flights or long drives more pleasant.

Security Essentials

Reusable & Region-Specific

Bring a Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and lessen waste. A Reusable shopping bag will be useful for groceries or souvenirs.

Regional Comfort

  • A Cooler for drinks and snacks is useful for scenic drives and picnics.
  • A detailed area map assists navigation in spots with limited cell service.
  • Consider packing a camera for capturing scenic views.
  • Portable chargers are a good idea for device power on long days.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste and keeps you hydrated.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Great for groceries and souvenirs, minimizing single-use plastic.

Travel Utensil Set

Avoid disposable cutlery when eating on the go.

Portable Charger

Recharge devices without relying on disposable batteries.

Destination-Specific Items

For Outdoor Excursions

  • Detailed Black Hills area map, especially for areas with limited cell service.
  • A cooler for drinks and snacks for scenic drives and picnics.
  • Camera with extra batteries for capturing the scenic landscapes and wildlife.

For Comfort & Convenience

  • Car phone mount for navigation if using your mobile device.
  • Neck pillow and earplugs for comfort during travel.
  • Light rain jacket, even in summer, for afternoon thunderstorms.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack versatile items that can be layered, given the quick temperature shifts between day and night, and across different elevations.

Opt for clothing that is moisture-wicking if you plan for active outdoor pursuits like hiking.