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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Southwest, USA

Spring/Fall Clothing

These seasons bring pleasant daytime temperatures but are cool in mornings and evenings.

Layering is Important

Summer/Winter Clothing

Summer heat is intense. Winter temperatures are cold, with potential for snow.

Seasonal Attire

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Footwear

Bring sturdy, broken-in Hiking boots or trail shoes. Good ankle support and grip are important for rocky, uneven terrain.

Avoid new shoes on long hikes to prevent blisters.

Water Activity Footwear

Water shoes or sturdy Sandals with good traction (Water shoes, e.g., Chaco, Teva brands) are useful for river activities. They protect feet from rocks.

Protect your feet from debris and sharp objects.

Casual & Winter Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for town. In winter, insulated, Waterproof boots keep feet warm and dry if snow is present.

Gaiters are useful for deep snow.

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and accessible prevents travel complications. Prepare both physical and digital copies of important papers.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Valid passport and visa (or ESTA).
  • Travel insurance policy information: Physical and digital copies with contacts.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): Necessary for some foreign licenses.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Record of immunizations and prescription list.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Accommodation, rental car, tours, timed entry.
  • Emergency contact information: List of family, friends, and doctors.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts: U.S. National Parks offer senior/military/access passes.
  • Data backup solutions: Use cloud storage for photos and documents.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The United States uses Type A and B plugs (two flat parallel pins or two flat parallel pins with a round grounding pin). Voltage is 120V at 60Hz.

Essential Power Items

  • International travelers need a Travel adapter for U.S. Outlets.
  • Confirm devices are dual voltage, or bring a Voltage converter.
  • Most modern international phones work with U.S. Networks (GSM/LTE/5G). Consider a prepaid SIM or eSIM. Airalo

Photography & Power Backup

Capture your memories and keep devices charged throughout your exploration.

Gear & Devices

Recommended Apps

Navigation

Google Maps, Apple Maps (download offline maps). AllTrails, Gaia GPS (for hiking, offline maps).

Weather & Park Info

NOAA Weather, AccuWeather for forecasts. NPS App (download content for Arches and Canyonlands offline).

Accommodation & Ride-sharing

Booking.com, Airbnb for reservations. Uber/Lyft (limited availability in Moab; do not rely on these).

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit

Pack a personalized health and wellness kit to address common travel ailments and injuries, especially in an outdoor-focused destination.

Contents

Medications & Sun Protection

Ensure you have all necessary medications and protection from the intense desert sun.

Personal Care Items

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Remedies

  • Hydrate well upon arrival.
  • Gradual ascent to higher elevations.
  • Avoid strenuous activity on the first day at higher altitudes.

Motion Sickness Remedies

  • Over-the-counter options like Dramamine.
  • Useful for bumpy roads or raft trips.
  • Discuss prescription options with your doctor for severe cases.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Gear to enhance your hiking experience on Moab's trails.

Mountain Biking Gear

Mandatory items for mountain biking safety and comfort.

  • A Helmet (often rented with the bike).
  • Basic Repair kit (spare tube, pump).
  • Specific biking gloves for improved comfort.
  • Padded bike shorts are recommended for long rides.

Climbing/Rafting Gear

Equipment for specialized adventures.

  • Climbing harness, helmet, belay device (rented or provided by guides).
  • Dry bag for protecting electronics on water.
  • Quick-drying clothing for rafting/kayaking.
  • Life vests are provided by outfitters for water activities.

Rent vs. Bring

Items to Rent

  • Mountain bikes: High-quality bikes are available from local shops (e.g., Poison Spider Bicycles).
  • Climbing and canyoneering gear: Available for rent if you are not an experienced climber.
  • Whitewater rafting equipment (paddles, life vests, rafts) is supplied by outfitters.
  • Jeeps/Off-road vehicles: Specialty rentals are available for trail exploration.

Items to Bring

  • Hiking boots: Personal items that are comfort and fit-dependent, best brought from home.
  • Personal daypack: Your own pack will be most comfortable.
  • Reusable water bottles and sun protection.
  • Most clothing, especially specialized items like padded bike shorts.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond the basics, a few extra items enhance your comfort, security, and overall travel experience.

Travel Essentials

Reusable & Specialized Items

Practical items that make your Moab trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Useful Additions

Moab-Specific & Purchased Locally

Cooler

For keeping drinks and snacks cold in your vehicle.

Camp Chairs

For comfort while camping or at scenic overlooks.

Binoculars

Useful for wildlife viewing or surveying distant landscapes.

Specialized Gear

Some items are best purchased beforehand due to limited local selection.

Activity-Specific Attire

Hiking/Backpacking

  • Moisture-wicking tops that dry quickly.
  • Sturdy hiking pants or shorts.
  • Sun hat and sunglasses.

Rafting/Kayaking

  • Quick-drying shorts or a swimsuit.
  • Water shoes or sturdy sandals with good traction.
  • A Rash guard or light long-sleeved shirt.

Packing Pro Tip

Layers are fundamental for Moab's climate. Be prepared for wide temperature swings between day and night, regardless of the season.

Consider renting larger items like mountain bikes or climbing gear to avoid transport hassles.