Getting Ready: Jackson Hole

Strategic Planning

Begin your preparations early to secure preferred options and rates.

Chronological Planning Overview

A timeline to guide your pre-trip activities.

-6 Months Ahead

Flights & Stays

Book flights to JAC, IDA, or SLC. Flights to JAC, especially, fill quickly.

Ground Transport

Reserve a rental car. This is often needed for independent park exploration.

Passes & Tours

Purchase a National Park Pass if you plan to visit multiple parks. Book any must-do tours.

Month Before

Itinerary & Confirmation

Finalize your itinerary details. Confirm all reservations for flights, lodging, and tours.

Travel Documents

Check your passport validity and visa/ESTA status if you are an international traveler.

Weather & Health

Plan clothing layers based on expected seasonal weather. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Week Before

Last-Minute Checks

Check the latest weather forecast for Jackson Hole.

Essentials Prep

Pack essential medications and assemble your first-aid kit. Download offline maps and essential apps.

Financial Notifications

Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans.

Required Bookings

These bookings are important for a smooth experience.

Reservations

Secure your air travel in advance.
Reserve your place to stay well ahead of time.
Arrange ground transportation, like a rental car.
Book popular tours early for preferred dates and times.

Important Research

Knowledge for Travelers

Familiarize yourself with National Park regulations.
Grasping altitude sickness prevention strategies.
Research specific hiking trails and their difficulty.
Review guidelines for safe wildlife encounters.

Home Preparations

Steps to take at home before your departure.

Arrangements

Arrange for mail collection.
Plan for pet care.
Organize plant watering.
Pay any bills due during your trip.

Home Safety

Secure your home by locking doors.
Close and lock windows.
Set home alarms.
Store valuables in a safe place.

Digital & Personal

Download offline maps.
Notify your bank of travel plans.
Pack essential medications.
Assemble a basic first-aid kit.

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Seamless Arrival

Steps to aid a smooth transition upon reaching Jackson Hole.

First Actions

1
Collect your rental car from the airport (if applicable).
This initial step starts your ground transportation.
2
Confirm your transportation to accommodation if not driving.
Pre-arranged shuttles or taxis are options.
3
Check into your accommodation and settle in.
Begin your stay comfortably.

Orientation Strategies

Visit the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center.
Obtain maps and local advice.
Visit a National Park Visitor Center.
Acquire park-specific information and current conditions.
Withdraw USD from an ATM.
If you require cash for your trip.

Departure Checklist

Souvenir and Shipping

Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping. Inquire about shipping options for larger purchases at stores.

Be aware of TSA regulations for carrying liquids or specific items in carry-on versus checked luggage.

Document Access

Ensure all necessary documents are easily accessible for departure procedures.

This includes passports, boarding passes, and ID.

Pre-Departure Timing

Check your flight status and airport security wait times. Allow ample time for rental car return.

Arrive at JAC at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights during busy seasons.

Travel Advisory

For transportation from your entry point to accommodation, utilize pre-arranged shuttles, taxis, ride-share services, or your rental car.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Equip yourself with knowledge for a memorable visit.

Essential Knowledge

Familiarize yourself with National Park regulations.
Grasping altitude sickness prevention strategies.
Research specific hiking trails and their difficulty.
Review guidelines for safe wildlife encounters.

Home Prep Before Departure

Arrange for mail collection, pet care, and plant watering.
Secure your home by locking doors and windows, and setting alarms.
Pay any bills that will be due during your trip.
Store valuables in a safe place.

Reminders

A few points to consider for a pleasant experience.

Important Distinctions

Cell service:Unreliable in national parks.
Local's Lane:Respect at ski resorts.
Cowboy Code:Honesty, respect, helpfulness.
Wildlife:Always has the right of way.

Return Trip Preparation

Pack liquids appropriately for carry-on or checked luggage.
Ensure all necessary documents are easily accessible for departure.
Allow ample time at the airport, especially during peak seasons.
Double-check flight status and security wait times.

Final Planning Reminders

Download offline maps and important information before you go. Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid transaction flags.

Last-minute plans can be expensive or impossible, so book ahead.

Getting Ready