Updated on by Asher Fergusson
If it’s your first time visiting Yosemite, it can be hard to know what to pack for your trip! We’ve put together this awesome Yosemite Packing List to help you out.
We also include sections on what to wear at Yosemite, what NOT to bring, and answers to all your Yosemite FAQs.
What to Pack for Yosemite- 18 Essentials
1. Neck Wallet
You’ll definitely want to bring a neck wallet with you on your trip to Yosemite. It’ll keep your important belongings safe and organized while you hike. Tuck your phone, credit cards, cash, and keys away in this handy pouch and you’ll be good to go!
2. Lipstick-sized portable charger
If you’re relying on your smartphone or camera during your trip to Yosemite, you won’t want to risk your battery dying at an inconvenient time. Toss this lipstick-size portable charger in your backpack and charge your devices on the go!
3. Cooling Towel
With so many trails to hike and views to explore, you’re bound to work up a sweat discovering Yosemite. Even if you avoid visiting during the hot summer months you’ll be surprised at how quickly you warm up even after a little bit of hiking. This cooling towel is compact enough to throw into your day bag and forget about it until you need it. If you start to get a little too hot, wet the towel, wring it out, and you have a refreshingly cold towel to cool you off.
4. Backpack
A backpack like this one will be your best and most convenient method of carrying your belongings during your visit to Yosemite. Keep everything you need with you on your back so you’ll be mobile and able to go wherever you want at a moment’s notice.
5. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized and help you to avoid overpacking for your trip to Yosemite. They come in different sizes and in a variety of fun colors so you’ll be able to pack and unpack without a problem.
Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.
6. LifeStraw Water Bottle
There’s no doubt you’ll need a reliable reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated during your trek through Yosemite. This one is great because it comes with a built-in filter to ensure the water you’re drinking is clean and safe.
7. Windproof Travel Umbrella
You won’t want to get caught in the rain at Yosemite without a proper windproof travel umbrella! This one is awesome because it’s big enough to cover you and your backpack while you hike, keeping your most important belongings dry.
8. Quick Dry Towel
A quick dry towel is a great alternative to a regular towel and will definitely come in handy while you’re at Yosemite. It’s lightweight, compact, and dries super fast so you can use it over and over again and quickly pack it up without a worry when it’s time to go.
9. Affordable Underwater Camera
You’ll certainly want to capture all your favorite memories at Yosemite, both in and out of the water! This affordable underwater camera is lightweight, compact, and durable, which is perfect for a hiking trip in this gorgeous natural setting.
10. Electrolytes
It’s so important to stay hydrated when you’re spending long days hiking and exploring in Yosemite. Be sure to bring these electrolytes to add to your drinking water to ensure your body is properly absorbing the water you’re putting into it.
11. Activated charcoal
If you eat or drink something that results in an upset stomach during your trip to Yosemite, it could really ruin your trip. Be sure to bring these activated charcoal pills to quickly absorb and expel the toxins in your body to keep you on your feet.
12. Deodorant Wipes
During long days of hiking and physical activity in Yosemite, you’re bound to be sweaty and smelly! Freshen up quickly with these handy deodorant wipes. Simply toss a pack of these in your backpack and keep yourself feeling and smelling fresh in a pinch.
13. Travel Insurance for Yosemite
If Yosemite is more than 100 miles away from home for you, you’ll definitely want to invest in some good travel insurance to protect your trip. TravelInsurance.com is our most trusted travel insurance comparison engine and is well-loved by travelers everywhere.
Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜
14. Waterproof Phone Case
Keep your smartphone protected from the elements with this handy waterproof phone case! Whether you’re taking a dip in the water, if it starts to rain, or you just want to keep your device safe from dust and dirt, you can’t go wrong with this waterproof pouch.
15. Dry Shampoo
There will be few opportunities to take a true shower during your trip to Yosemite, so you’ll definitely want to invest in some good dry shampoo. After long days of hiking and camping outside, there are few things you can use to make you feel fresher than this!
16. Hiking Boots
These are a no-brainer for your trip to a massive national park. You’ll need a good, sturdy pair of hiking boots like these to keep your feet comfortable while you’re hiking and exploring all that Yosemite has to offer.
17. First Aid Kit
You never know what can happen when you’re hiking and camping in Yosemite, so you’ll want to have a travel first aid kit like this one, just in case. This will come in handy for bumps and scrapes you may encounter along the way.
18. Hiking Poles
Some people prefer to use hiking poles when embarking on serious hiking trips. These will help you stay steady and balanced while on the trail, plus they’re adjustable so anyone can use them! Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran hiker, these hiking poles are a must-have for your trip to Yosemite.
Other Yosemite Packing List Items Not to Forget
Protein Bars
Over the Counter Medications
Steripod Toothbrush Cover
Kindle
Contact Solution
What to Wear at Yosemite
You’ll want to wear clothing fit for hiking and being outdoors, such as hiking pants, hiking boots, and clothes made from quick dry or sweat wicking materials. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle and wear lots of sun protection!
What Should WOMEN Wear to Yosemite? – (Click to expand)
Women visiting Yosemite should be prepared with plenty of layers to be able to easily adapt to changing weather conditions. Comfortable, durable clothing will be best for long days of hiking and exploring. Keep it casual, as you’ll be in the national park the entire time!
What Should MEN Wear to Yosemite? – (Click to expand)
Men visiting Yosemite should wear plenty of layers to easily adapt to changing weather. You should be prepared with comfortable and durable clothing that can withstand long days of hiking and exploring. Be sure to bring some warmer layers, too, for cooler evenings.
Dressing for the Seasons in Yosemite
You’ll want to dress for the season and prepare your trip accordingly before you head to Yosemite. The summer is the best time to visit the national park, but other seasons also have their charms.
WINTER – December, January, February:
Winter in Yosemite is cold, wet, and snowy. Hiking paths at higher elevations will be restricted during this time, so you’ll have less backpacking options available. Be sure to dress warmly and prepare for rain and snow during this time.
SPRING – March, April, May:
Spring weather in Yosemite can be very unpredictable, ranging from warm pleasant days to cold days with rain storms. Evenings are typically cool, so be prepared with plenty of layers if you plan to travel during this time of year.
SUMMER – June, July, August:
Summer in Yosemite tends to be warm and dry, though evenings can still be a bit chilly. This is the best time to visit the national park, as there will be less restrictions for hiking paths at higher altitudes. You may experience a rain storm or two, so be prepared for precipitation.
FALL – September, October, November :
Fall weather will still remain warm and pleasant for most of the season, though nighttime temperatures will begin to cool off significantly. Be prepared with plenty of layers to be able to easily adapt to changing weather conditions.
How to dress for different activities in Yosemite – (Click to expand)
Hiking – you’ll definitely be doing a lot of hiking in Yosemite, so be sure to dress for the season. Bring plenty of layers, comfortable hiking shoes, and lots of water to stay hydrated during this activity.
Camping – you’ll most likely be camping out during your trip to Yosemite, so bring plenty of warm layers for chilly evenings, and comfortable clothes for lounging around your campsite. Sweat wicking or water resistant clothing will be best. Don’t forget to bring crocs or sandals, too, to give your feet a chance to breathe when you’re not hiking or exploring.
What NOT to bring to Yosemite
DON’T PACK a regular towel: A regular towel will only bog you down during your visit to Yosemite, so instead opt for a lightweight quick dry towel. This will dry incredibly fast and be ready to go whenever you are.
3) DON’T TAKE expensive electronics or valuables: You won’t have any need for expensive valuables and electronics during your trip, so leave those things at home. If something is truly essential, bring it, but keep it safely guarded!
5) DON’T BRING uncomfortable shoes: With all the hiking and exploring you’ll be doing during your trip, you won’t want to be wearing uncomfortable shoes. Make sure your hiking boots are well broken in before you go.
DON’T BRING too much stuff: The last thing you need is to be weighed down by an overstuffed backpack while you’re at Yosemite. Make your life easier by bringing a lighter pack filled only with what you need.
4) DON’T PACK fancy clothing: You’ll be spending all of your time in Yosemite hiking and camping, so you won’t have any need to wear fancy clothing. If it’s something you’d be upset to have ruined by the elements, leave it behind.
6) DON’T TAKE heavy books: If you plan to do some reading during your trip, opt for a lightweight kindle instead of bringing a ton of heavy books. You’ll be glad you brought less with you when you’ve got to carry everything on your back!
What clothing should I NOT wear to Yosemite? – (Click to expand)
FAQs for Going to Yosemite
1. What are some main attractions in Yosemite?
Some of the most popular natural attractions in Yosemite are the Yosemite Valley, the iconic Half Dome, the Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point, among many others.
2. Is Yosemite safe?
Yes, it is safe to visit Yosemite. That said, it is a large natural park, so you’ll need to have your wits about you and make sure to remain hydrated and avoid interacting with any dangerous wildlife you may encounter.
3. Can you go camping at Yosemite National Park?
Yes, however, there are specific designated areas where you are allowed to camp and you will not be permitted to camp outside of those locations.
4. Where will I stay during a business trip?
Your company will more often than not provide your accommodation for your business trip, which means you’ll likely be put up in a hotel for the duration of your stay. Your company will probably provide a means of transportation to and from the main events during your trip as well.
Other North America packing lists you may like…
Alaska | Arizona | Appalachian Trail | Austin | Banff NP |Beach | California | Canada | Camping | Chicago | Colorado | Cruise | Day Hike | Denver | Desert Trip | Destination Wedding | Disney | Florida | Glacier NP | Grand Canyon NP | Grand Teton NP | Havasupai | Hawaii | Honeymoon | Kalalau trail | Kauai | Key West | Lake trip | Las Vegas | Maui | Miami | Moab | Myrtle Beach | Nantucket | New York | Oregon Coast | Orlando | Pacific Crest Trail | Portland | Quebec | Road Trip | RV Trip | San Diego | San Francisco | Seattle | Sedona | Texas | Washington, D.C. | Wisconsin Dells | West Coast Trail | Yellowstone NP | Zion NP
Please note: We have over 200 packing lists covering practically every popular travel destination in the world. Access them all on our packing list overview page ➜
