Grand Canyon Packing List

How many times have you pulled out of the driveway, ready to head off on your next travel adventure or family vacation, only to discover you’ve forgotten to pack something important?

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:

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!

The sun’s rays shine powerfully at the Grand Canyon all year long. Be sure to pack sunscreen with 30 SPF or higher, even if it’s cloudy. You can still get burnt even if it’s overcast.

The air at the Grand Canyon is very dry, so you might find yourself feeling thirsty faster than usual, especially if you’re hiking.

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. If you don’t want to carry around all that water, there are free water refill stations located throughout the park, and even on some hiking trails.

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.

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.

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.

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.