What to Pack for Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks in Summer

Neighbouring National Parks, Grand Teton and Yellowstone, are the perfect location for a summer adventure, digital detox and getting back to nature. If you’re planning a summer adventure in either or both of these spectacular Wyoming Parks, you’ll need to consider the variable weather conditions, activities and amenities when packing your bag. Don’t worry, I’ve done most of the groundwork for you. Just use this Grand Teton and Yellowstone packing list to help you prepare and you’ll be done in no time.

Disclosure: I may earn compensation from the purchase of any product linked on this website, at no extra cost to you. I only link to products I use and love, therefore feel comfortable recommending.

Activities and amenities
Cooking and eating
Altitude
Electronics
Environment
Travel Documents
What to pack for Yellowstone
Inside my suitcase

Activities and amenities

I thoroughly researched the climate conditions and our activities when deciding what to pack for Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. We planned a week of day hikes, seeing the key sites and some evening wildlife spotting – see our full itinerary with tips on booking last minute, here.

Our accommodation was reasonably basic, but comfortable, including a mix of cabins and lodge rooms located inside and outside the park. Depending on the location and style of accommodation, they offered varying amenities ranging from no fridge, tv or internet, to full kitchenette, cable and wifi.

Cooking and eating

For the majority of the trip we made our own breakfasts and packed lunches then ate at local cafes and restaurants for dinner. We took along our picnic set as listed below, to give us the basic tools to prepare sandwiches, wraps and salads while minimising single-use plastics.

NOTE: Remember, if you flying into the region and plan to pack items such as kitchen knives, you will have to check your baggage. See which items you can and can’t take carry-on here.

Altitude

Yellowstone National Park lies at an average elevation of 8000ft. Not only do you need to consider altitude sickness at this elevation, but you’re also much more vulnerable to sunburn. According to WebMD, “UV exposure increases about 4% for every 1000ft (305m) gain in elevation.” So whether or not you think you need sunscreen protection, use it anyway.

Electronics

International visitors should note that electricity in the US is delivered at 110/120 volts, 60Hz. Depending on where you are travelling from and what kind of appliances you are bringing, you may need a voltage converter. Generally, modern phones, tablets and laptops are made for both 110-127V and 220-240V, but it is best to check. The USA uses Type A and B plugs and sockets, so you will almost certainly need an international adaptor.

Environment

Remember you are travelling to a National Park to appreciate nature! Try to minimise packaging and disposables as much as possible. A refillable water bottle and a travel thermos or mug for your tea/coffee are a great place to start. These guides will help with further suggestions: 8 Essential Eco-Friendly Travel Products and 5 Steps to More Sustainable Travel.

Travel Documents

Domestic travellers will need a State-issued ID such as a driver’s license to board your flight. Remember as of May 2023, a REAL ID is required for air travel.

International travellers, ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity and plenty of blank pages for your new passport stamps. Check whether you require a visa for entry into the USA – it will depend on the country of your passport. There is a Visa Waiver Program for nationals of some countries, but even if you fall in this category, you will still need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to enter.

All travellers, don’t forget to pack copies of your travel reservations, details of your travel insurance, Covid-19 vaccination record and your National Parks pass if you already have one.