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What to Pack for Green Mountains

What to Pack for Green Mountains

Green Mountains Vermont, USA Travel Guide

Summer/Fall Layering

For summer (June-August), pack moisture-wicking t-shirts and quicks. A light fleece or long-sleeve shirt adds warmth for evenings or higher elevations. A Lightweight rain jacket and pants prove useful for thunderstorms. A Sun hat and Sunglasses offer sun protection.

Fall Essentials September-October

Winter/Spring Layering

For winter (November-March), heavyweight merino wool or synthetic Long underwear provides maximum warmth. A thick a fleece jacket or Down jacket and insulated Snow pants are good for snow activities. A Warm hat, insulated Gloves or mittens, a neck gaiter, and Ski goggles offer full protection.

Spring Necessities April-May

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking & Trail

Sturdy, Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support. For lighter trails, Trail running shoes.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots a solid choice.

Winter Footwear

Insulated, Waterproof winter boots with good traction for snow and ice.

Sorel Caribou Waterproof Boots recommended for warmth and grip.

Casual & Camp

Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers for towns. Sandals or slip-ons for camp relief.

Ensures comfort for general exploration and downtime.

Essential Documents

Travel Documentation

Organizing your important documents streamlines your travel. Carry both printed and digital copies of information for easy access and as backup.

  • Valid U.S. Driver's License or state ID (REAL ID compliant for flying).
  • For visitors from abroad: Valid passport and U.S. Visa or ESTA approval.
  • Travel insurance policy details, including contact info for claims.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if you are an international visitor planning to drive.
  • Medical information: chronic conditions, allergies, current medications.
  • Printed and digital copies of all reservations (accommodation, car, tours).
  • Emergency contact list: family, doctor, insurance, embassy/consulate.
  • Student/senior/press Cards for possible discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The U.S. standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz. Plugs are Type A/B. A Travel adapter like the Ceptics International Travel Power Adapter handles various plug types. Most modern smartphones are compatible with U.S. GSM/CDMA networks. Prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs are available.

Digital Essentials

Photography & Power

A digital SLR or Mirrorless camera captures landscapes. A Smartphone works for casual shots. A Flexible tripod like the JOBY GorillaPod 3K Kit helps with stability. Pack extra batteries and memory cards. Portable chargers, such as Anker PowerCore III Fusion 5K, keep devices charged.

Useful Apps & Backup

  • Google Maps (driving), AllTrails (hiking), GAIA GPS (offline maps).
  • Cloud storage (Google Drive/Dropbox) for photos. An External SSD like the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for large files.
  • B&H Photo Video offers camera and electronics. B&H Photo

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for automatic photo and document backups. This digital backup ensures your memories remain safe even if devices are lost.

Physical Backup

An External hard drive, particularly a Portable SSD, safeguards large files like high-resolution photos and videos. It complements cloud storage, giving an immediate physical copy.

Device Security

Password-protect all devices. Use strong, unique passwords. Enable two-factor authentication for important accounts. This stops unauthorized access to your personal information.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A personal First aid kit addresses minor injuries. Pack Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tape, pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen, allergy medicine, Anti-diarrheal medication, and Hydrocortisone cream. Include Moleskin for blisters and a Tick removal tool.

Tick Removal

  • A Tick Tick Remover is a useful item for outdoor enthusiasts in Vermont.
  • Check for ticks regularly after spending time outdoors, especially in wooded areas.
  • Remove any attached ticks promptly using fine-tipped tweezers.

Personal Care & Protection

Carry prescription medications in original containers. Pack over-the-counter remedies for colds or indigestion. Use Insect repellent (DEET/picaridin), especially for ticks and mosquitoes. Bring Broad-spectrum sunscreen, Lip balm with SPF, and a Wide-brimmed hat for Sun protection.

Water & Hygiene

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness

  • Winding mountain roads can induce motion sickness.
  • Carry Motion sickness medication if you are prone to it.
  • Ginger candy or acupressure bands may also help alleviate symptoms.

Altitude Sickness

  • Altitude sickness is not generally a concern in the Green Mountains.
  • The highest peak, Mount Mansfield, at 4,395 feet, is not high enough to trigger altitude sickness.
  • Stay hydrated and take breaks to acclimate to any elevation changes.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking/Backpacking

A Daypack (Osprey Talon 22) or backpack, Trekking poles, Headlamp, map/compass/GPS, layers, water bottle or Hydration reservoir.

  • Durable hiking boots.
  • Water purification.
  • Bear canister (some areas).
  • Trail-specific maps.

Camping Gear

Tent (Coleman Sundome), Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, Camp stove (Jetboil Flash), cooking utensils, cooler. Backcountry camping may require a bear canister (BearVault BV500).

  • First aid kit.
  • Headlamp.
  • Camp chairs (optional).
  • Fire starter.

Skiing/Snowboarding

Skis/snowboard, boots (Rossignol Alltrack 80), bindings, poles, helmet, goggles. Resorts often rent equipment. Insulated, waterproof Ski jacket and Snow pants are vital.

  • Ski socks.
  • Base layers.
  • Neck gaiter.
  • Gloves/mittens.

Rent vs. Bring Gear

Items to Rent

  • Ski or snowboard equipment: Saves on transport costs and bulk.
  • Snowshoes: If you only use them occasionally.
  • Canoes or kayaks: Bulky to transport, readily available for rent.
  • Mountain bikes: Unless you are a dedicated cyclist with specialized needs.

Items to Bring

  • Your own hiking boots: Ensures comfort and proper fit.
  • Clothing layers: Individual comfort items are best brought from home.
  • Personal daypack: Custom fit and familiar organization.
  • Water bottles: Reusable bottles help reduce waste.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Pack a Neck pillow, Eye mask, or headphones for long journeys. A Chin-supporting travel pillow like BCOZZY adds comfort. Small padlocks for hostel lockers and an RFID-blocking wallet for card protection are smart security measures.

Travel Essentials

Region-Specific Essentials

A small Head net, like Coghlans Mosquito Head Net, provides invaluable protection during peak black fly and mosquito season (late spring/early summer). A Bear canister or bag is recommended or required for overnight backcountry trips in some Green Mountain National Forest areas. It helps store food securely and prevents attracting bears.

Sustainable Travel Items

  • A reusable water bottle, like Hydro Flask, reduces plastic waste.
  • Bring a reusable shopping bag to reduce plastic bag use.
  • Reusable utensils for takeout meals minimize single-use plastic waste.
  • Green Mountain Club Map & Guide: Useful for Long Trail and other hiking areas. Green Mountain Club Long Trail Map

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic bottle waste. Many places offer refill stations.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Minimizes reliance on single-use plastic luggage for purchases.

Reusable Utensil Set

Great for takeout meals or picnics, avoiding disposable cutlery.

Solid Toiletries

Shampoo/conditioner bars reduce plastic and are leak-proof.

Destination-Specific Items

Essential Guides & Passes

  • Green Mountain Club Long Trail Map: Essential for hikers on the Long Trail.
  • Vermont State Parks Pass: Cost savings if you plan to visit multiple parks.
  • Swimming costume and towel: For lakes, rivers, or hotel pools in warmer months.

Outdoor Comfort & Safety

Packing Pro Tips

Always include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer (fleece/puffy jacket), and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. This layering system supports adaptation to temperature changes throughout the day.

Consider renting larger or specialized gear to save on transport and cost, like skis, snowshoes, canoes, or mountain bikes.

What to Pack for Green Mountains. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials