Grand Canyon Packing List
Car is packed? Check.
Kids are buckled in? Check.
After weeks of planning and the inevitable last-minute scramble to get ready to go, you’re finally all set to head out on your next family vacation—or so you thought. How many times have you pulled out of the driveway, ready to head off on your next travel adventure only to discover you’ve forgotten to pack something important?
No matter how much we plan or how many times we double or triple check that everything has been packed, it’s easy for essentials to fall through the cracks in the inevitable last minute rush to get out the door. The best way to make sure you’ve packed everything is to make a list, so we made one for you!
Here’s what you need when you visit the Grand Canyon:
1. A small backpack
Backpacks make it easier and more comfortable to carry your gear, including heavy and bulky things like sunscreen and water bottles. Plus, backpacks leave your hands free for snapping photos!
2. Sunscreen and sunglasses
No matter what time of year you plan to visit the Grand Canyon, you should always bring sunglasses and sunscreen—the sun shines brightly even in the winter. Be sure to pack sunscreen with 30 SPF or higher, even if it’s cloudy or winter. You can still get burnt in the winter, even if it’s overcast.
3. Comfortable, sturdy shoes
Dressing for the environment is the key to having a great Grand Canyon adventure, and that means you need comfortable shoes. Even the most developed parts of the Grand Canyon, like the South Rim, have fairly rugged terrain. Running shoes, sport sandals, and hiking boots are all good choices; high heels, flimsy sandals, and new shoes are not.
If you’ll be doing any hiking, wear mid-weight boots with lots of ankle support. For a more casual walk along the Rim trails, comfortable shoes with good tread are sufficient.
4. Light layers
Light layers are versatile and will also protect your skin from the sun, which is exactly what you need when you visit the Grand Canyon.
In the summer, shorts, good shoes, and a light t-shirt are perfect. In the winter, jeans, good shoes, and a comfortable longer sleeved shirt are more appropriate. Bring along a light jacket or hoodie as well—that way, you can add layers when you’re cold, or remove them if the weather is warmer than you expected.
If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon on a guided tour, always check your tour description for recommended attire or any special clothing requirements, like close-toed shoes.
5. A hat
In the summer, bring a hat with a wide brim to protect you from the sun. If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon in the winter, pack a warmer hat—the temperatures can drop lower than you might expect, especially in the morning or evening.
6. A reusable water bottle
The air at the Grand Canyon is very dry, so you might find yourself feeling thirsty faster than usual, especially if you’re hiking.
Dehydration is common at the Grand Canyon. A good rule of thumb is to bring about 3 quarts of water for each adult, or more if you’re planning on venturing below the Rim. Do your research before you leave and make sure you understand which trails have water fountains, if they are working, and where they’re located on the trail and throughout the park.
7. Snacks
Snacks can be expensive to purchase at the Grand Canyon, and you may have to wait in line for a long time to get them. Avoid those dreaded sugar rushes or temper tantrums and save yourself some time and money by packing nutritious, portable snacks like trail mix or granola bars.
8. Your camera and spare batteries
There are spectacular photo opportunities at every Rim of the Grand Canyon, so don’t forget your camera! Smartphone cameras are a good alternative, as long as your batteries don’t die.
Take stellar Grand Canyon shots with our photography tips and tricks.
9. Bandages or a small first-aid kit
Minor scrapes and blisters happen, especially when you’re hiking. Pack a small first aid kit—or at least some bandages—to take care of any bumps and bruises that might happen on your Grand Canyon adventure.
10. Activities for kids
There are tons of fun things for kids to do and see at the Grand Canyon, but you may have to wait in line for ranger demonstrations and shuttle buses. Small toys or books can help keep your kids occupied while you wait.
The Complete Grand Canyon Visitor Guide
Find answers to all your questions about the Grand Canyon in our guide!
Take Our Tips With You!
The last thing you want to do when you visit the Grand Canyon is overpack! Stick to the essentials and enjoy your visit with our free printable packing list.
Download the Complete Grand Canyon Visitor Guide for guides to each Rim, packing lists, travel tips and more.
Featured Image Source: Highways Agency
Written by Ria Borja
