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    Things to Bring to National Parks, From Woman Who’s Visited All of Them

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    • As someone who’s visited all 63 major US national parks solo, I always carry a few items with me.
    • I stay safe by packing bear spray, a first-aid kit, and plenty of sun protection.
    • Offline maps help me navigate parks where cell service is unavailable.

    After spending a decade visiting all 63 major US national parks solo, I’ve found that it doesn’t take a lot of gear to get out into the wild and enjoy the experience.

    Still, there are a few practical items that are definitely worth bringing along before heading into a park.

    These items are best suited for visits to parks that can be enjoyed without long hikes or backpacking, but no matter the trip, it’s always important to plan and be prepared.

    Here are 10 items I never enter national parks without.

    An America the Beautiful Pass is helpful when planning visits to multiple parks.


    An America the Beautiful pass.

    An America the Beautiful Pass offers savings on park visits.

    Emily Hart

    When visiting multiple parks, an America the Beautiful Pass is incredibly useful.

    For $80 a year, passholders can access over 2,000 federal recreation sites — including the 63 major national parks — without any extra entrance fees.

    Some larger parks charge $35 for a pass that’s valid for up to seven days, so this is a huge money saver when visiting three or more parks in a year.

    A full water bottle is important for hydration.


    Emily sitting on a rock drinking out of a water bottle.

    I make sure to bring a full water bottle with me.

    Emily Hart

    This may seem self-explanatory, but I see plenty of people out on the trails without any water.

    Although some parks do have water refilling stations scattered throughout the grounds and near popular attractions, this isn’t always the case, so I make sure to bring a full bottle to last me throughout the day.

    Offline maps come in handy when there’s no cell service in the parks.


    The AllTrails app on a cell phone.

    I download offline maps from the AllTrails app.

    mariakray/Shutterstock

    Cell phone service can be unpredictable and varies from park to park, so it’s important to be prepared to explore without internet connection.

    I love using the AllTrails app to find and navigate trails. I make sure to download the maps while I still have a data connection, so once I’m in the park, I can use those maps offline.

    I always bring a spacious backpack to carry gear.


    Emily standing on rocks with a backpack on.

    I prefer a backpack over a crossbody bag.

    Emily Hart

    Instead of trying to fit everything into a small crossbody bag, I prefer using a large backpack to store all of my gear.

    Being prepared usually means having more than I think I’ll need, and a backpack is a great way to carry all my essentials.

    Depending on the park, bear spray is recommended.


    A can of bear spray.

    Bear spray is essential when hiking in bear country.

    Emily Hart

    When traveling in bear country, I always bring bear spray with me. It’s not allowed in every national park, but it’s essential in places like Glacier, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and all the Alaskan parks.

    Since flying with it isn’t typically permitted, plan to buy, rent, or use the spray that’s sometimes provided by local lodgings.

    I recommend learning how to use it beforehand and keeping it within easy reach for peace of mind.

    I like to bring many layers of clothing with me.


    Emily standing in front of water wearing a flannel, coat, and hat.

    The weather can change quickly when hiking.

    Emily Hart

    The weather can change quickly in the mountains, desert, and forests. Plus, changes in time of day or elevation can significantly impact temperature.

    That’s why it’s essential to dress in layers that can be added or removed to stay comfortable.

    I always carry a rain jacket, a warm hat, long sleeves, extra socks, and a flannel in my bag.

    First-aid kits are good to have on hand.


    Contents of a first aid kit spread out on the floor.

    Fellow hikers have used my first-aid kit.

    Emily Hart

    Another item that I always carry with me is a first-aid kit. I personally haven’t used much from mine, but it’s come in handy when helping fellow hikers or visitors in need.

    My kit includes traditional first-aid items, along with bug spray, electrolytes, and a space blanket — a lightweight, heat-reflective sheet designed to retain body warmth in emergencies.

    I never visit a national park without sun protection.


    Emily taking a selfie in front of water wearing a wide brimmed hat.

    My wide-brimmed hat is perfect for blocking out the sun.

    Emily Hart

    The sun can be surprisingly intense at higher elevations, and it doesn’t take long to feel the effects.

    Protecting my skin and eyes isn’t just about safety — it makes the entire day more comfortable and enjoyable.

    I never head out without sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and a good pair of sunglasses.

    A tripod is perfect for capturing photos.


    A standing tripod on red, sandy ground.

    A tripod is great for taking solo or group pictures.

    Emily Hart

    I travel solo, so a tripod is a must for taking photos. However, even when traveling with others, a tripod makes it much easier to get great travel photos that include everyone.

    Snacks are important for maintaining energy.


    Emily sitting on a rock eating a snack.

    I always pack my own snacks.

    Emily Hart

    Snacks are essential for any activity, and visiting a national park is no exception.

    Although some parks have concessions with snacks for purchase, they’re not always available. And many times, the nearest store is far from the remote parks.

    I love to bring nuts, granola bars, dried fruit, beef jerky, candy, and an apple on my hikes.

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