camping gear Archives - Dawn Outdoors https://dawnoutdoors.com/tag/camping-gear/ Sharing advice, info and inspiration about my happy place: the Great Outdoors. Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:18:30 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://happiestoutdoors.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/cropped-favicon@3x-32x32.png camping gear Archives - Dawn Outdoors https://dawnoutdoors.com/tag/camping-gear/ 32 32 2025 Black Friday Deals for Hikers https://dawnoutdoors.com/black-friday-deals-for-hikers/ https://dawnoutdoors.com/black-friday-deals-for-hikers/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:16:38 +0000 https://dawnoutdoors.com/?p=4845 I definitely believe that the outdoors is for everyone, but unfortunately one of the barriers to getting outside is having to buy tons of gear. And of course, that gear doesn’t come cheap! I worked at the head office of a big outdoor retailer for six years, so I understand the seasonal sales cycle. One …

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]]> I definitely believe that the outdoors is for everyone, but unfortunately one of the barriers to getting outside is having to buy tons of gear. And of course, that gear doesn’t come cheap!

I worked at the head office of a big outdoor retailer for six years, so I understand the seasonal sales cycle. One of my tried and true tips for getting deals on hiking and backpacking gear is to wait for sales. So of course in the run-up to the holidays, I’m always watching for Black Friday deals for hikers.

This year I’ve complied all the Black Friday deals for hikers together into one giant post so you can view them all at a glance. I’ve also provided my picks for the best gear from each of the sales and some tips on how to make sure it is really is a good deal.

This page was updated with the latest deals on December 1, 2025

This post includes:

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

HEY CANADIANS: Join the Canadian Hiking Gear Deals Facebook group for the latest sales and discounts on hiking gear in Canada

When are the Sales?

Some retailers have started to run Pre-Black Friday Sales in early November.

In 2025, Black Friday is on Friday November 28th. Look for lots of sales to start the week before and continue through the weekend. (Black Friday is now turning into Black Friday Week and Black Friday Weekend!)

Cyber Monday happens on the Monday immediately after Black Friday. In 2025, Cyber Monday is Monday December 1st.

Lots of outdoor brands also have general holiday sales throughout December and into the new year. I’ve got details on those below too.

The Deals

Here’s my running list of all the Black Friday and holiday sales on hiking and backpacking gear that I know about from American and Canadian retailers. I’ll keep them updated every day during the holiday shopping season. If you hear of other great deals, let me know in the comments and I’ll add them.

Note: Many of these retailers ship to both countries, but keep check shipping costs, duties, tariffs, and exchange rates carefully before you buy.

Canadian Deals

All Canadian Deals are in Canadian dollars and ship from Canada without additional duties or tariffs.

AllTrails

Black Friday: 50% off All Trails Plus – ends Dec 3

Altitude Sports

Black Friday Deals – Up to 50% off Sea to Summit, The North Face, Smartwool, and more

Altitude Sports is running so many good deals that I’ve got a dedicated post: 2025 Altitude Sports Black Friday Sale: My Picks for the Best Deals

Amazon Canada

Black Friday Deals – Up to 40% off

Arc’teryx Canada

Black Friday Sale: Up to 30% off this season’s gear

Outlet Cyber Week: Take an extra 20% off already discounted gear. Ends Dec 1.

Athleta Canada

Black Friday – 30% or more off almost everything

Backroad Map Books

Black Friday Sale: 15% off almost everything

Bass Pro/Cabela’s Canada

Black Friday Sale: Up to 50% off. Ends Dec 3.

Columbia Canada

Black Friday: Almost everything on sale + 50% off top deals

evo Canada

Black Friday sale – up to 60% off

Gaia GPS

Black Friday Sale: 30% off Gaia GPS Premium – I use this GPS app since it’s so much better than AllTrails for advanced navigation, especially off-trail. I also like their slope angle layer for assessing avalanche terrain. This is their only sale of the year. 

Gear Trade

Black November – new items on sale daily from brands like Gossamer Gear and Hyperlite. Ends Dec 1

Helly Hansen Canada

Black Friday: 25% off site-wide

50% off past-season gear

lululemon Canada

Black Friday – Up to 50% off

MEC

Black Friday – Up to 50% off

Mountain Hardwear Canada

Holiday Sale: 20% off

Mountain Warehouse Canada

Black Friday – 50% or more off everything. Ends Dec 9.

Nomad Nutrition

Black Friday – 40% off all backpacking meals with code BFCM2025

Outdoor Research Canada

Holiday Deals: 25% off sitewide – use code HOLIDAYDEALS. Ends Dec 1.

Rad Power Bikes Canada

Black Friday: Up to $500 off electric bikes

SAIL

Black Friday: Up to 50% off

Sea to Summit Canada

Black Friday: 40 to 50% off

Smartwool Canada

Black Friday: 25% off. Ends Dec 2.

The Last Hunt

Cyber Week: Up to 80% off everything – ends Dec 7. Extra 20% off over $200 with code 20FOR200.

ThermoWorks

Shop in USD or CAD. Offers shipping to Canada and ThermoWorks pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday: 20% off site wide

Valhalla Pure Outfitters

Black Friday: Up to 60% off

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American Deals

American deals are from American retailers. Where possible, I’ve included info on whether you can shop in CAD and if they ship to Canada.

AllTrails

Black Friday: 50% off All Trails Plus – ends Dec 3

Amazon USA

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on most items but it’s easier to order from Amazon Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Backcountry

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on a limited number of items. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Sale – Up to 70% off tons of big brands

Black Diamond

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on most items and BD pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday: Up to 70% off. Ends Dec 1.

Branwyn

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on most items and Branwyn pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Annual Holiday Sale: 25% off sitewide. Ends Dec 1.

Cabela’s USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Bass Pro/Cabela’s Canada.

Black Friday Weekend – Up to 50% off

Columbia USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Columbia Canada.

Black Friday: Almost everything on sale. Up to 50% off some items.

Cotopaxi USA

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday – 25% off select gear and apparel

Enlightened Equipment

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Sale

  • 20% off all in-stock gear
  • 20% off custom down and synthetic quilts

evo USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from evo Canada.

Black Friday Sale – Up to 60% off

Garage Grown Gear

Shop in USD or CAD. Ships to Canada but orders are subject to duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Holiday Sale: 10 to 30% off

Gregory

Shop in USD. Does not ship to Canada.

Black Friday: 25% off sitewide.

Gossamer Gear

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Gossamer Gear Canada to shop in CAD – but orders on the Canadian site are still subject to duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Holiday deals – up to 30% off.

Helinox

Shop in USD. Canadians should buy from Helinox Canada.

Black Friday: 35% off sitewide. Ends Dec 8.

Kelty

Shop in USD. Does not ship to Canada.

Black Friday Sale – 25% off side wide

Mountain Hardwear USA

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Mountain Hardwear Canada.

Holiday Sale: 20% off

MSR

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from MSR Canada.

Holiday Sale: 25% off snowshoes, stoves, and more

Osprey

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Osprey Canada.

Winter Sale: Up to 40% off. Ends Dec 1.

Outdoor Research

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Outdoor Research Canada.

Holiday Deals: 25% off sitewide – use code HOLIDAYDEALS. Ends Dec 1.

Platypus

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Platypus Canada.

Holiday Sale: 25% off all water filters

prAna

Shop in USD. Does not offer shipping to Canada.

Holiday Must-Haves: 30% off sitewide. Ends Dec 1.

Rad Power Bikes

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Rad Power Bikes Canada.

Black Friday: Deals starting at $999

Six Moon Designs

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Sale: Save 25% on shelters, packs, umbrellas and more with code YULEHIKE

Steep and Cheap

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada on some items. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Big Brands Sale: Up to 60% off

Therm-a-Rest

Shop in USD. Canadians should shop from Therm-a-rest Canada.

Holiday Sale: 25% off sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and pillows

ThermoWorks

Shop in USD or CAD. Offers shipping to Canada and ThermoWorks pays all duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday: 20% off site wide

Zenbivy

Shop in USD. Offers shipping to Canada. Customer is responsible for duties/brokerage/tariffs.

Black Friday Deals available for their email subscribers only

Retailers Who Don’t Do Black Friday

A few brands have pushed back on the consumerism around Black Friday and don’t have Black Friday sales.

Patagonia and Patagonia Canada

Patagonia’s website says: “Black Friday is a frenzy of deep discounts, limited-time offers and last-ditch efforts urging you to “save” by spending more. We’re not doing that.” It goes on to explain that they are committed to making durable gear and encouraging repairing gear rather than buying new.

REI

REI’s website says: “Since 2015, we’ve closed our doors on Black Friday, choosing time outside over the busiest in-store shopping day of the year.” However, they do have a sale each year in mid-November called the Holiday Sale.

What Gear is on Sale?

There are two main types of products offered at a discount for Black Friday and Boxing Day: stuff that is discontinued and stuff that’s on sale just for the holidays.

Discontinued Gear

Most of the hiking gear that is on sale is usually colors or styles that will be discontinued next year. Retailers want to clear this stuff out so they’ll have room for next year’s gear. In November and December you will usually find the dregs of last summer’s gear on deep discounts.

You might also find winter gear like jackets on sale. Typically winter gear goes on sale this early if the retailer bought too much and they aren’t selling that well. The main things you’ll find in this category are clothing and footwear since they change every year.

Seasonal Sales

The other type is just regular priced product that is selling just fine, but the retailer decides to mark-it down for a limited time to bring in extra sales. The retailer is making less profit on these products but they hope that you’ll buy more stuff and boost their overall sales.

Tents, backpacks, stoves, headlamps and other non-clothing gear is what you’ll find in this category. Since this kind of gear rarely goes on sale otherwise, Black Friday and Boxing Day are the best time to find deals on hiking and backpacking gear.

Are Black Friday Sales Worse Than They Used to Be?

If you’re over 25 you might remember that Black Friday sales used to have insane prices: Doorbuster deals for 70% off were common. But if you’re looking at the current deals listed on this page, you’ll notice most of them are are 20% or 30% off. What happened?

Those day of insane Black Friday discounts are over for a few reasons. The main one is that Black Friday shopping has shifted from in-person to online. Those 70% off doorbuster deals were loss leaders (offered at below cost) designed to get people to come into the store. Once in the store, retailers hoped you people would buy other things with more modest discounts.

Today, Black Friday is almost entirely online. And the way we shop is different. We spend lots of time comparing prices between sites and choosing the exact thing we want. We don’t go to a store and impulse buy something because its 70% off.

Most e-commerce retailers aren’t willing to do limited-time doorbuster-style deals online because they don’t have the tech set-up to do it or they are worried about their site crashing. Going offline during Black Friday would be a disaster for them!

It’s also worth noting that it only seems like Black Friday sales aren’t as good as they used to be. Yes, we don’t have those crazy 70% off doorbusters anymore. But the rest of the deals we get now are pretty comparable to the ones we used to see back then if we got past the doorbusters and explored what else was on sale.

What’s the Deal with Boxing Day?

Some of you might be old enough to remember a time where Black Friday wasn’t a thing in Canada. Instead, all of the big sales were on Boxing Day, which is the day after Christmas.

As online shopping rose and American influence become more prominent, retailers in Canada started to offer both Black Friday and Boxing Day sales. Black Friday sales were a way to get people shopping at the start of the holiday season and Boxing Day sales helped retailers get rid of extra stock they had hoped to sell during the holidays but didn’t.

However, I’ve noticed a big shift in Canada away from Boxing Day sales. You’ll still see a few Canadian retailers doing Boxing Day sales, but many do not. As well, the deals on Boxing Day don’t tend to be as good. Instead, most outdoor stores wait until the end of winter and then have a big sale.

All of that is to say, when it comes to outdoor gear, I think you’ll get the best deal when you buy on Black Friday or if you want for end of winter sales (usually in late March). Don’t hold on Black Friday thinking you’ll get a better deal on Boxing Day. That hasn’t been a helpful strategy for at least 15 years.

How to Make Sure You’re Getting a Good Deal

Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. Do your research before you buy. Make sure the gear you buy is the right size and works for your style of hiking or backpacking. Be sure to read reviews. Make sure you buy from companies with good return policies.

Some retailers will offer seemingly insane deals on gear from brands you’ve never heard of. Do your research. These are often knock-off brands that sell things super-cheap anyway.

The best Black Friday deals for hikers are on brand name gear that doesn’t usually go on sale otherwise. Be wary of deep discounts on last year’s gear – it likely was on sale before Black Friday. Save your money for the deals that are actually good – not the ones that just LOOK good.

Final Thoughts

I hope you found this list of the best Black Friday deals for hikers helpful. (And I hope you snag some sweet gear!) Have you spotted any other good Black Friday deals on hiking and backpacking gear? Tell me in the comments and I’ll add them to the list.

MORE GEAR POSTS:

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]]> https://dawnoutdoors.com/black-friday-deals-for-hikers/feed/ 4 Lake O’Hara Packing Lists for Hikers and Campers https://dawnoutdoors.com/lake-ohara-packing-lists/ https://dawnoutdoors.com/lake-ohara-packing-lists/#comments Fri, 25 Apr 2025 23:44:49 +0000 https://dawnoutdoors.com/?p=6666 Getting to visit Lake O’Hara in Canada’s Yoho National Park is likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. (Mostly because reservations are SO hard to get!) You need these Lake O’Hara packing lists to make sure you have the right gear so you can stay warm, dry and happy. I’ve been to Lake O’Hara twice: On one trip …

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]]> Getting to visit Lake O’Hara in Canada’s Yoho National Park is likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. (Mostly because reservations are SO hard to get!) You need these Lake O’Hara packing lists to make sure you have the right gear so you can stay warm, dry and happy.

I’ve been to Lake O’Hara twice: On one trip I spent 4 days camping and hiking in early July. We had some chilly nights, sunny days and crazy rainstorms. On another trip in late August, I took the bus in for the day hiked the Alpine Circuit in variable weather. I’ve also done countless other trips to nearby destinations in the Canadian Rockies.

I’ve put together two packing lists for you. There’s a Lake O’Hara packing list for hikers that has everything you need for a day on the trails, no matter what the weather. And there’s a Lake O’Hara packing list for campers staying at the Lake O’Hara campground. Enjoy!

READ NEXT: Your Guide to Camping and Hiking at Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

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Lake O’Hara Essentials for Every Visitor

National Parks Pass

You need a National Parks Pass to park at the Lake O’Hara parking lot. You can buy day passes and multi-day passes at Yoho National Park visitor centre in Field, BC. If they aren’t open, there’s a park pass vending machine in the parking lot.

You can also buy a pass when you enter nearby Banff, Jasper, or Kootenay National Parks – the same pass covers all of the Rocky Mountain Parks.

If you plan to spend more than seven days in any Canadian National Park in a 12 month period, it makes more financial sense to buy an annual Discovery Pass. You can buy one online or at any visitor centre. I get one every year!

Leave your Parks Pass on the dash of your vehicle in the Lake O’Hara parking lot. If you don’t have a pass displayed, you could get a fine.

Bus and Campsite Reservations

You need to make advance reservations for the Lake O’Hara Bus and Lake O’Hara campground. (Read more about how to make reservations in my Lake O’Hara guide.)

Bring a print out of your confirmation email or save it as a PDF on your phone. The Park Ranger will ask to see it when you check-in at the bus stop and the campground. They may also ask to see a piece of photo ID to crosscheck against the name on the reservation.

Cash

If you want to buy any snacks or souvenirs at Le Relais, the day-use shelter/coffee shop, you will need to bring cash to Lake O’Hara. The carrot cake is especially popular.

You can also buy lunch or afternoon tea at the Lake O’Hara Lodge… but they only take cash.

And if you lose your return bus token or you walk up and are hoping to get on the return bus on stand-by you can only pay for the bus in… you guessed it… cash.

I recommend bringing at least $25.50 per person – that’s the cost of the bus back down.

Map and Guidebook (Optional)

The Lake O’Hara area has excellent signage so it’s pretty easy to find your way. However, with so many trails to choose from, it can be hard to plan your route without a map.

Gem Trek makes a Lake O’Hara specific map. (This is the only map they sell at Le Relais.) However, for some perplexing reason, this map doesn’t have trail distances on it. I brought the more general Lake Louise and Yoho National Park map, which has a Lake O’Hara inset. That one DOES have trail distances and I found it waaay more helpful.

While it’s not essential, I like having a guidebook to choose which trail to hike. I recommend the Canadian Rockies Trail Guide by Brian Patton and Bart Robinson. It has a good overview of each of the hikes at Lake O’Hara.

You should also check out my guide to the Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit. It’s the best hike at Lake O’Hara, but it isn’t for everyone due to narrow ledges. My guide has lots of photos and details so you can decide if this hike is right for you.

READ NEXT: Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit Hiking Guide

Hikers on the Yukness Ledges in Yoho National Park
Hikers on the Yukness Ledges on the Alpine Circuit

GPS App (Optional)

I use Gaia GPS on all of my hikes since I like to be able to tell how far we have walked (and therefore how much further we have to go).

Another good option is All Trails. It is more of a trails database than a GPS, but it does have good maps. Make sure you get an All Trails+ subscription since that is the only way to access maps when you don’t have cell service (which you won’t at Lake O’Hara).

I didn’t need the GPS for navigation at all at Lake O’Hara since the trails were so well marked. But it was handy to see our elevation and the names of the mountains. We also used it to get a good overview of the trail system.

Join the Lake O’Hara Facebook group

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Lake O’Hara Hiking Gear Packing List

If you’re planning to do any of the day hikes at Lake O’Hara, here’s a few essentials you should pack.

Psst: Looking for an overview of which hikes are available? Read my Lake O’Hara Hiking and Camping Guide.

Day Pack

If you’re going hiking, you’ll need a backpack to carry your gear. If you’ve already got a backpack, go ahead and bring it – as long as it’s not too little, you’ll be fine.

But if you’re shopping for a day pack, I recommend one that has about 20-25 litres of capacity. Great features to look for are a spot to hold a hydration reservoir and hip belt pockets so you can easily grab snacks, lip balm or your phone without taking the pack off.

I also likes backpacks with a rain cover so I don’t have to worry about my stuff getting wet. If your backpack didn’t come with a raincover, you can always buy a rain cover separately.

I brought my Gregory Jade 28 to Lake O’Hara. It was big enough to carry my rain gear, snacks, camera, and water. Plus it comes with a rain cover that was REALLY helpful on wet days. The men’s version is the Gregory Zulu 30.

A hiker wearing a backpack with a rain cover on it at Opabin Prospect near Lake O'Hara in Yoho National Park. A raincover is an essential item on any Lake O'Hara packing list.
I used the rain cover on my day pack a lot since the rain often rolled in quickly.

Hiking Boots

The trails in Lake O’Hara are meticulously maintained, but there are some really steep sections and lots of rocks. Wearing hiking boots gives you ankle support. And the tread on hiking boots also gives you better traction on steep slopes so you won’t skid out.

On my first trip to Lake O’Hara, I brought my trusty Salomon Quest hiking boots. They’re pretty lightweight and breathable for high cut boots with ankle support, so they don’t get too hot.

The second time I went to Lake O’Hara the weather was hot and I didn’t feel like wearing boots, so I wore my Salomon XA Pro trail runners. They are pretty burly for trail running shoes, so they provide a fair amount of stability but are still so much lighter than boots.

Hiking Socks

One of the biggest mistakes new hikers make is wearing their regular cotton socks on a hike. Cotton socks hold in your sweat. That’s a surefire way to get blisters! Wearing proper hiking socks made of wool or synthetics will help keep your feet dry.

My favourite hiking socks are actually the Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Mid socks. They are designed for trail running so they have cushion under the forefoot and at the heel, but otherwise they are lightweight and breathable.

If you want a slightly thicker traditional hiking sock, I love the Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks. They’re comfortable and seem to last forever.

READ NEXT: How to Prevent Blisters When Hiking

Quick-Drying Hiking Clothing

You can definitely hike in your regular clothes, but they won’t be as comfortable. Bring some hiking pants or shorts and a hiking shirt made of quick-drying synthetic material. They’ll keep you cool and dry when you get sweaty! And don’t forget quick-drying hiking underwear.

Lately I’ve been loving hiking in a long sleeved sun hoodie since it keeps me cool and I don’t have to wear as much sunscreen. I have lots (and I reviewed them all in my guide to the best sun hoodies) but fave is the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun Hoody.

READ NEXT: Best Sun Hoodies for Hiking

On most summer days you’ll find me hiking in my Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts. I have two pairs. They aren’t too short or too long and they fit my curvy body. They also have big side pockets that hold my phone.

If it is chilly enough to want pants, I reach for my Mountain Hardwear Dynama pants. I actually have three of these! They are so good: soft and stretchy waist, durable yet lightweight material, and good pockets.

READ NEXT: 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)

A group of hikers wearing quick-drying hiking clothing walks along the Alpine Meadows Trail near Lake O'Hara in Yoho National Park
My group wearing quick-drying hiking clothing on way to Lake McArthur.

Fleece or Lightweight Puffy Jacket

Even if you visit in the middle of summer, Lake O’Hara can be chilly since it’s high in the Rocky Mountains. Pack a cozy fleece jacket or a lightweight puffy to wear for chilly mornings and evenings.

On my visit in mid-July, I ended up wearing my MEC Rockwall fleece at some point every day. My husband brought his Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket. For a synthetic puffy it’s really light and warm.

Rain Gear

It can rain at any time at Lake O’Hara since it has unpredictable mountain weather. On my first trip, we had a few light showers. And then one afternoon the heavens opened up for an hour into a torrential downpour. I kept my rain jacket in my day pack on every hike and was glad to have it.

These days, my go-to rain jacket is the Outdoor Research Aspire. (The men’s version is called the Outdoor Research Foray.) It’s lightweight, breathable, and fairly packable. It also has incredibly long pit zips that let me open it up for tons of ventilation. Plus, it’s not crazy expensive.

If rain is in the forecast, waterproof rain pants that you can layer over your hiking pants are a great idea. I brought mine and wore them around camp in the downpour on my Lake O’Hara camping trip. Rain pants with side zippers for venting that are easier to put on and take off without removing your shoes.

I have the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Rain Pants. They have a little bit of stretch, so they don’t feel as constricting as other rain pants. They also are often on sale so it’s easy to get a deal.

Bear Spray

The core Lake O’Hara area doesn’t usually have very many bears, but they are around. However, the McArthur Valley and Linda Lake area nearby are home to lots of grizzly bears and black bears. 

Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when hiking. Make sure you get a bear spray holster so you can attach it to your backpack or belt.

READ NEXT: Bear Safety for Hikers, Campers and Backpackers

A hiker wearing bear spray in a hip holster near Lake O'Hara. You should pack bear spray for your Lake O'Hara trip.
My husband wearing his bear spray on his belt during our a hike to Lake Oesa. (It’s in the yellow hip holster.) It’s easy to grab in that position. But although we did see a bit of bear scat, we never saw any actual bears.

Sun Protection

The sun can be really harsh at Lake O’Hara since it’s at such a high elevation. Protect yourself from sun burns.

Bring a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for protection. My fave sun protection combo is my lightweight Ciele GoCap along with a sun hoodie like the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Sun Hoody. The cap shades my face and when the sun gets harsh, I put the hood up on my sun hoodie to cover my neck and the sides of my face. Ciele makes my fave caps because they are lightweight and don’t seem to absorb sweat.

You’ll also want to bring high SPF water resistant sunscreen. I like Sun Bum’s Sunscreen Face Stick for on-the-go sunscreen application. It goes on like deodorant so I can reapply to high risk areas like my nose and cheeks without getting my hands messy. It’s also pretty sweat proof.

Don’t forget lip balm to avoid sun burned lips. You can’t beat basic Blistex. The SPF is low (only 15) so you have to reapply often. But I find it feels normal and doesn’t taste gross, unlike the thicker, bitter tasting formulas in SPF 30 lip balms.

Pack some sunglasses too. By far my favourite sunglasses are from Goodr. I have a few pairs. They are polarized, which makes the colours of the glacier lakes really pop. Since they are designed for running, they stay in place. They also really reasonably priced for polarized sunglasses.

A woman takes a selfie at Opabin Prospect
Wearing a sun hoodie, baseball cap, and sunglasses at Opabin Prospect at Lake O’Hara.

Bug Spray

In early summer, the mosquitos at Lake O’Hara can be bad. If you’re sensitive to bites, bring some insect repellent. I like bug sprays that use picaridin instead of DEET since it is just effective against insects but doesn’t melt synthetic clothing the way DEET can.

First-Aid Kit

Pack a basic first-aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, and medical tape.  You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies like blister bandages.

READ NEXT: How to Prevent Blisters When Hiking

Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers like Advil, and anti-diarrhea pills like Immodium just in case. And don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water-resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids.

Camera or Phone and Charger

Lake O’Hara is STUNNING! You’ll want to take all the photos (and videos!) I brought my Sony A6400 camera. It’s a mirrorless camera which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high-quality images. I find it easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

I also brought my iPhone for quick on-the-go shots. There is no cell service at Lake O’Hara, so I kept it on airplane mode.

Taking so many photos and videos, plus cold nighttime temperatures meant that my battery died pretty quickly. I was glad I brought a portable power bank to stay charged. I use a tiny Anker power bank that charges my phone a couple of times.

A family takes a selfie at Lake Oesa
You’re going to want to take a LOT of photos. My friends took some epic family selfies.

Water Bottle or Hydration Reservoir

You need to stay hydrated at high elevations. Bring a water bottle or hydration reservoir. If you run out, you can fill up at the campground taps.

I use the Platypus Big Zip hydration reservoir. It’s pretty lightweight and the closure is really bomb-proof so it doesn’t leak.

Water Filter (Optional)

If you’re doing a long hike (like the Alpine Circuit) in hot weather, it can be tough to carry enough water to last the whole day. On my last trip to Lake O’Hara, I brought my Katadyn BeFree filter. It’s a simple to use squeeze filter that means I can filter water anywhere. It’s also really light and compact so I don’t mind carrying it.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are a few outhouse-style toilets in the Lake O’Hara area. You can find them at the parking lot, in the campground, at the Elizabeth Parker hut, and next to Le Relais. Parks Canada supplies toilet paper and hand sanitizer, but they do run out. Keep some with you just in case. 

And if you really need to go and can’t make it to a toilet, go to the bathroom the Leave No Trace way: Dig a small hole 70 big steps away from trails, roads, campsites, and water. Then bury your waste, and pack out your toilet paper in a plastic bag. I carry a super lightweight titanium trowel for backcountry poo-mergencies. Hilariously, it’s called the Deuce of Spades.

Snacks

You can buy snacks and drinks and Le Relais (get the carrot cake!!), or eat lunch at the Lake O’Hara Lodge, but plan to bring a few snacks on the trail.

Trekking Poles (Optional)

Besides the Lakeshore Trail, all the trails at Lake O’Hara have some super steep sections. Trekking poles can be really helpful for saving your joints on the downhills or keeping your balance. I also found them really helpful on the steep and slippery snow patches we encountered on the Alpine Circuit.

I’ve been hiking with poles for the last two decades and can’t imagine going without them. So of course, I brought my Black Diamond Distance FLZ trekking poles to Lake O’Hara. These poles fold up instead of telescoping, which means they pack down super small so I can stash them in my pack when I’m not using them.

A hiker walking through snow with trekking poles on the All Soul's Alpine Route
My trekking poles really helpful on the slippery snow we encountered on the All Soul’s Alpine Route. Photo credit: Reid Holmes

Join the Lake O’Hara Facebook group

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Lake O’Hara Camping Gear Packing List

One of the best ways to experience Lake O’Hara is to camp. After the day hikers leave on the last bus of the day, it really quiets down.

When planning to camp at Lake O’Hara keep in mind that it is at 2,020m elevation, which means it can be chilly at night, even in the summer. The average low temperature in June, July, and August is between 2 and 5C (36-41F). Brrrr!

As well, afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common, so you’ll want to make sure you are prepared for rain.

There’s also the bus baggage limit to contend with. All your gear must fit in one large bag per person. (Read more about the bus baggage limit in my Lake O’Hara guide.) In practice, that means camping like you are going on a backpacking trip.

If you are camping at Lake O’Hara, bring all the things on my hiking gear list above, plus these items:

Backpacking Pack or Duffle Bag

The checked baggage limit for the bus is one large bag or two small bags per person. (You can also bring a day pack as a carry on.) Parks Canada specifies that checked bags must weigh no more than 25 kg/55 lbs. and cannot be longer than 97 cm/38″ on the longest side.

Many people choose to bring their backpacking pack as their checked bag, but a large duffle bag is also a better option.

You can get a huge duffle bag that holds up to 100 litres (way more than the 60L that most backpacking packs carry) and still fits within the maximum baggage dimensions for the Lake O’Hara bus.

My husband and I brought one backpacking pack and a giant waterproof MEC duffle bag. It was helpful to have it as we could store extra gear in it outside our tent without worrying about rain.

If you’re looking for a budget option, I like MEC’s Classic Recycled Duffle Bags in the 90L size.

Don’t bring rolling suitcases. They will get stuck in the gravel and will be tough to carry over roots in the campground.

People and luggage waiting for the bus at the Lake O'Hara campground
Baggage at the Lake O’Hara campground waiting to be picked up by the bus. You can see a mix of backpacking packs and duffle bags.

Tent

The tent pads fit 4-person tents or smaller. If you bring a bigger tent, it will hang off the end of the tent pad and park rangers make ask you to take it down and leave.

Bring a waterproof tent that can stand up to rain. If possible, choose one with a full-length rain fly that reaches all the way to the ground and covers the door. That offers MUCH more protection than the ones with a little fly on the top that you find at Canadian Tire.

We lent our MEC Volt 4 LT 4-person tent to our friends for our Lake O’Hara trip since they were camping as a family of 4. It’s a big tent, and it just fit on the tent pad. It has a full-length fly so it’s totally waterproof.

Tents on raised platforms in Yoho National Park
The tent platforms fit a four person tent at the largest. This photo shows a one person tent on the platform.

Warm Sleeping Bag and Insulated Sleeping Pad

The Lake O’Hara campground is at 2,020m elevation (6627 feet). It can be cold at night up there!

Pack a sleeping bag rated at least 0C (32F), but preferably -5C (23F). Choose one with a hood for extra warmth. If you’re looking for a backpacking sleeping bag on a budget, I can’t say enough good things about the MEC Draco/Delphinus bags. They are lightweight, compressible, warm, and won’t break the bank.

Even the warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold ground. Sleeping pads don’t just provide comfort – they also provide insulation since you lose heat to the ground. Choose a sleeping pad that has an R-value of at least 2.5. (R-value measures insulation and warmth). If you expect really cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R-value.  

I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm which has an R-value of 7.3 since I sleep really cold. My husband loves his Sea to Summit Ether Light which isn’t as warm (R-value 4.1), but is long and wide for a more comfortable sleep.

READ NEXT: How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

Pillow (Optional)

You can use a bunched up jacket as a pillow, but I recommend bringing a compact camping pillow to save your neck.

I love my Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Premium. It is lightweight and compact but still really comfortable once you blow it up thanks to the plush fabric. For a budget option, the basic Air Pillow is good – just layer an extra shirt over it to use as a pillowcase.

Thermal Base Layer Top and Bottoms

When it’s chilly, I sleep in thermal base layers while camping. They keep me way warmer than regular PJs. They are also nice to wear around the campsite under my clothes on cold evenings and mornings.

Choose mid-weight thermals made of polyester or merino wool and be sure to pack both bottoms and a long-sleeved top. I sleep cold so I wear a Smartwool merino wool top with a hood and matching bottoms. MEC makes great polyester mid-weight base layers at a budget price.

Warm Hat and Gloves

You lose a lot of heat through your head and hands. Pack a cozy toque and some lightweight fleece gloves to wear in the mornings and evenings.

Headlamp or Flashlight

Pack a headlamp or flashlight to find your way around at night. I like using a headlamp since it keeps my hands free. I use the basic Fenix HM23 Headlamp. It’s super bright and easy to use. Plus the batteries last a long time on low power.

Camp Shoes (Optional)

Pack a lightweight pair of slip-on sandals, flats or Crocs for around camp. You’ll want a break from your boots at the end of each day. If you choose to bring camp shoes, pick ones that are light and don’t take up too much room in your pack. I like to bring shoes that I can wear with socks for extra warmth. (Flip flops don’t work so well for that!)

Stove, Fuel, Pots and Cooking Utensils

There is a fire pit at the Lake O’Hara campground, but you aren’t supposed to cook on it. We brought our lightweight Primus OmniFuel backpacking stove and pot. If you’re looking for a simple stove, I recommend the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe.

A group of campers cooking at the Lake O'Hara campground in Yoho National Park
Warming our hands on an over-primed stove. Photo credit: Reid Holmes

Plates, Mugs, Forks, Cutting Board, and Knife

We brought our collapsible Sea to Summit bowls and our trusty Snow Peak camping sporks.

But we totally forgot to bring a cutting board. We have this fancy (and amazing) Snow Peak cutting board and knife set. It’s a bit too heavy for backpacking, but it’s perfect for car camping. It folds down so it doesn’t take up much space – I don’t know why we didn’t bring it!

We also brought our Snow Peak double-wall insulated mugs to keep our drinks warm for longer.

Dishwashing Supplies

We brought a small pot scraper, a tiny microfibre cloth, and some Dr. Bronner’s biodegradable soap.

There are sinks for doing the dishes at the campground, but they ask you not to put food into them as it clogs the drains. Parks Canada provides a few plastic washbasins. Heat up a bit of water on your stove, then do dishes in the washbasin. Strain out the food particles, then pour the soapy water down the sink and put the food particles in the garbage.

Small Soft-Sided Cooler

You aren’t allowed to bring hard-sided coolers to Lake O’Hara. But you can bring a small soft-sided cooler either as one of your two small bags, or tucked inside a larger bag.

Your cooler has to fit inside the 24″ cube-shaped bear lockers at the campground so pick a small one. Use ice packs or pack your ice inside ziploc bags to avoid a wet mess inside.

We have a little Hydro Flask Insulated tote bag cooler that we bring on trips like this. It’s big enough to fit a few small perishable items like cheese or half a dozen eggs.

Food

Unlike most backcountry trips, food weight and bulk aren’t a problem at Lake O’Hara since you get to take the bus in. We brought fresh food we wouldn’t normally bring hiking including veggies and frozen steaks!  And don’t forget the snacks! 

Tarp (Optional)

There are shared cooking shelters, but in rainy weather they get full and not everyone can fit inside. If rain is in the forecast, bring a tarp to string up over the outdoor picnic tables to create a cooking area.

I use an ultralight MEC Scout Silicone Tarp since it packs down small enough to bring on backpacking trips. But if you’re on a budget, a good old giant blue tarp will work just fine.

Bring some rope or paracord to string up the tarp. I swear by these Nite Ize Figure 9 Caribiner Rope Tighteners – they make it so much easier to pitch a tarp without having to tie all kinds of crazy complicated knots.

The campground at Lake O'Hara in Yoho National Park
The campground at Lake O’Hara. On the left is one of the cooking shelters. You can also see the bathroom building with its covered porch and dishwashing sinks. Since the cooking shelters are small, you might want to string up a tarp over one of the picnic tables.

Toiletries

Bring all your usual camping toiletries including a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, baby wipes, hairbrush, and contact solution.

Entertainment for Camp (Optional)

You’ll have a few hours each night in camp when you’ll need to entertain yourself. Consider bringing a book or some headphones to listen to music or podcasts.

The shelters can be really social so a deck of cards or a compact game can be a good way to meet new friends.

I always travel with my Kindle eReader so I have hundreds of books to choose from. We’ve brought the card game Exploding Kittens on a few trips and it’s always a hit.

Hikers on the East Opabin Trail
Hiking down the East Opabin Trail

Join the Lake O’Hara Facebook group

Stuff You Don’t Need to Pack for Lake O’Hara

Even though you can bring tons of stuff to Lake O’Hara, you don’t want to over pack. Here’s what you shouldn’t bring.

  • Climbing gear: The trails are non-technical and you won’t need harnesses, ropes, helmets, crampons, etc. However, if you do plan to climb some of the peaks nearby or head to the former Abbot Pass Hut site, you will need climbing gear, plus the knowledge of how to use it.
  • Hammocks: They aren’t allowed in the campground since they can damage trees.
  • Camping Chairs: It’s against park rules. There are lots of picnic tables and benches in the campground you can use.
  • Portable speakers or other electronics: Most people come to Lake O’Hara to appreciate the sounds of nature and prefer not to hear your music. The campsites can also be really close together, so you’ll want to keep the noise down. Plus they are against the rules
  • Musical instruments: Parks Canada doesn’t allow them.
  • Hard-sided coolers or plastic bins. They aren’t allowed.
  • Drones: They aren’t allowed in any national park unless you have a special use permit.
  • Your dog: Dogs are permitted on leash on day hikes in the park, but they aren’t allowed on the bus or in the campground.

READ NEXT: Your Guide to Camping and Hiking at Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park

Final Thoughts

With these two Lake O’Hara packing lists, you should have everything you need to have an awesome trip, whether you are hiking or camping. If you have questions about what to bring to Lake O’Hara, please leave me a comment. I’m always happy to help!

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]]> https://dawnoutdoors.com/lake-ohara-packing-lists/feed/ 5 20 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear https://dawnoutdoors.com/ways-to-save-money-on-hiking-gear/ https://dawnoutdoors.com/ways-to-save-money-on-hiking-gear/#comments Fri, 08 Nov 2024 23:48:39 +0000 https://dawnoutdoors.com/?p=3599 Getting outfitted for hiking and backpacking can seem overwhelming. When I was first starting out, I felt like there was so much gear on the market and that it was SOOO expensive. Plus I felt like the list of gear you need to buy for hiking and backpacking was never ending. That was two decades …

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]]> Getting outfitted for hiking and backpacking can seem overwhelming. When I was first starting out, I felt like there was so much gear on the market and that it was SOOO expensive. Plus I felt like the list of gear you need to buy for hiking and backpacking was never ending.

That was two decades ago, and while gear is still expensive, I’ve developed lots of different tricks for finding hiking gear on a budget.

I’ve been hiking my whole life and backpacking for 20 years. I spent three years working in an outdoor store helping people choose gear and then seven years at the head office of a big outdoor retailer writing product descriptions, how to choose guides, and staff training materials. I’ve also written two backpacking guidebooks and countless blog posts. At this point, it’s fair to say that I know quite a bit about hiking gear!

So here it is, my big list of 20 ways to save money on hiking gear. Read on for lots of ways to get deals on used gear, save money on new gear and even get some gear for free! I’ve also got pointers for what kind of gear you should look for with each method.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Borrow Gear

If you’ve got a a friend with extra gear, see if they’ll let you borrow it. If you join a hiking club in your community or at a university, they also might have gear you can borrow.

I did lots of my first backpacking trips with borrowed tents, backpacks, sleeping bags and sleeping pads. It was a great way to try out gear and see what I liked. (And what I hated, like that too-big backpack that rubbed an oozing sore onto my collarbone).

Be sure to clean and dry gear before returning it. And if you want to borrow gear again, bring your friend a 6-pack or some cookies to say thanks.

Gear to Look For

Unless your friend is the same size as you, borrowing boots or a backpack won’t be comfortable. You’ll have a bit more sizing leeway with clothing, but to set yourself up for success, stick to tents, sleeping bags, and stoves.

A hiker sits next to her huge backpack on her first backpacking trip.
Sitting next to the giant backpack I borrowed for my first backpacking trip in 2004 on the West Coast Trail. It was too big and the sternum strap rubbed my collarbone raw.

Shop Your Closet

Check your closet: chances are you might already own some workout gear or gear from other sports that will work for hiking.

Gear to Look For

Workout tops, shorts, and tights made of synthetics like polyester and nylon (avoid cotton) make great hiking clothes.

I bet you already have some gloves and a warm hat you could throw in your pack.

And speaking of a pack, if you’ve got an old book bag around, it will do fine as a day pack when you’re first starting out.

If you’re doing an easier hike on mellow trails you might not need hiking boots: you can wear your regular running shoes that you wear to the gym.

Taryn poses with a friend on the summit of Diamondhead Peak in Squamish while wearing a Ciele GoCap
My favourite hiking hat is actually a Ciele GOCap that I bought for running. I liked it so much for hiking and backpacking that I bought a second one.

Rent Gear

Gear shops often have rental programs, especially in locations near popular trails. It’s a great way to try before you buy, and sometimes you can apply the cost of the rental to the purchase of equipment. A quick google will usually find gear rental programs in your area.

Renting doesn’t make sense long term, but it’s a good idea if you aren’t sure you want to invest in expensive gear.

Gear to Look For

Most gear rental shops rent out tents, sleeping bags and backpacks. Some might also have stoves and sleeping pads too. In the winter you can usually rent snowshoes too.

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Visit Second Hand Sporting Goods Shops

Many larger cities and trail towns have second-hand sporting goods shops. These stores are usually cluttered with cheap bikes and skis from three seasons ago. But if you’re lucky, you can score a deal.

Gear to Look For

Lightly used tents, sleeping bags and backpacks. You can often find good deals on hiking boots and jackets too.

Bookmark Discount Gear Websites

Websites dedicated to selling discounted brand-name outdoor gear are a great way to find budget hiking gear.

Steep and Cheap, the bargain arm of Backcountry.com, has killer prices (up to 70% off) on big names like Patagonia. They also have a Current Steals section where products are offered at crazy cheap prices for a short period of time. I think my very first online gear purchase was from Steep and Cheap: I scored a merino wool Icebreaker sweater for 70% off way back in 2006.

If you’re in Canada, check out The Last Hunt. (They are the bargain arm of Altitude Sports.) Everything on the site is at least 30% off and some is up to 80% off!

Gear to Look For

You can get pretty much any gear or clothing on these sites from socks to sleeping bags. Check back often as deals change daily. Keep in mind that return policies can be strict or non-existent on deeply discounted gear so check before you buy.

Scour Thrift Stores

It can be worth checking out the selection at your local thrift store, particularly if you are in an outdoorsy city.

Gear to Look For

Head to the clothing section for brand name hiking pants and fleece jackets at great prices. Wool sweaters also make great warm layers for hiking.

You can wear thrift store wool sweaters as warm layers for hiking. One of 17 ways to save money on hiking gear.
My sister is a veteran thrift store shopper and knows how to find a deal. She’s found some great stuff, like this colourful wool sweater that makes a great warm layer for chilly winter hikes.

Check Facebook Marketplace, Craiglist, eBay, etc.

Online buy and sell websites can be a great place to find lightly used gear. Craigslist, Kijiji, and eBay are a good place to start. Facebook Marketplace is also awesome, as are outdoor gear buy and sell groups on Facebook – a quick search will usually find ones in your area.

Gear to Look For

Big ticket items like tents and sleeping bags are your best bets. Be sure to ask for lots of photos and a description of the current condition if you can’t see the item in person before you buy it.

Be careful when purchasing items that need to fit you like boots, backpacks or jackets. Ask if you can try it on first or stick to buying brands that you already know fit you.

Find an Outfitter Selling Off Rental Gear

At the end of the season many outfitters and rental shops will sell off used rental gear to make space for newer gear. These end of season sales can be hard to find, so its worth asking local outfitters if they have a rental sale at the end of the season.

Gear to Look For

The most common items items to find at rental gear sales are snowshoes, skis, snowboards, bikes, canoes, and kayaks. You can sometimes also find deals on tents, backpacks and sleeping bags.

READ NEXT: Which Women’s Specific Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?

Go to a Gear Swap

Attending an outdoors gear swap can be a great way to find cheap used gear. Many ski towns have annual ski swaps where you can find great deals. Some outdoor clubs and non-profits organize swaps to raise money.

As well, some outdoor stores also organize their own swaps. Pre-pandemic, REI and MEC ran legendary gear swaps at many of their stores. Both retailers have switched away from this model in recent years, but some stores may still run these events.

Gear to Look For

At ski swaps look for high end waterproof breathable backcountry ski jackets or puffy jackets since they work great for hiking.

At gear swaps look for pricey items like tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, jackets, and boots.

Hit Up Big Box Stores

You can get find some crazy cheap prices on gear at big box stores like Walmart or Target.

In general, I don’t advise purchasing backpacking gear at big box stores since you’ll likely want to replace it with better stuff after a few trips since it’s so heavy and the quality is often terrible. However, in a pinch, their stuff usually works fine.

Gear to Look For

Big box stores often have a camping section with tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, stoves and backpacks.

Their clothing sections can also be good for things like cheap fleece jackets and workout clothing that can double as hiking clothing.

Go to the Mall

You can also consider hitting up mall stores to save money on hiking gear, especially hiking clothing.

Gear to Look For

Fast fashion stores like Old Navy and H&M often have super cheap workout gear, fleece and insulated jackets that can double as hiking gear. I have some Old Navy sports bras that are great for hiking.

Uniqlo has great puffy jackets and their HeatTech line can work as lightweight base layers.

Decathlon is also a great place to check. They are a French budget sports store that has recently expanded into some North America cities, mostly at malls. They mostly carry things for running, working out, tennis, etc. but they do have some outdoor gear. Their Forclaz and MT100 puffy jackets are amazing for the price.

Check out Discount Stores

Discount stores like Marshalls, Kohls, TJ Maxx, and Winners often have name brand workout clothing at super cheap prices.

Gear to Look For

You can usually find wicking t-shirts, shorts, sports bras, and tights that make great hiking clothing. They sometimes have puffy jackets and fleece too.

Sort Through the Clearance Section at an Outdoor Store

Every time you go to your local gear store, check the clearance rack. You might score a great deal.

You can also find way more selection on the clearance and sale sections of gear store websites. Usually these sections are full of last seasons models and colours at cheap prices.

REI and Backcountry both have good deals sections. In Canada, check out the deals sections at MEC, Altitude Sports, and Valhalla Pure Outfitters.

Most gear brands also have clearance and sale sections. For example, check out Patagonia’s Web Specials section or Outdoor Research’s Past Season section.

Gear to Look For

While there might be promotions around big sales times (e.g. Black Friday), in general, clothing and footwear go on clearance each year at the end of the season when new colours/styles are introduced and old ones are cleared out.

Only a small amount of tents, sleeping bags and other gear ever go on clearance since each model is usually carried for a few years before being updated or discontinued.

If you see a good deal on gear in the clearance section, grab it because it won’t last long.

You can score great deals on items in the clearance section of a gear store. One of 17 ways to save money on hiking gear.
Right before my trip to the Yukon I found a deal on this puffy jacket in the clearance section at MEC. I was so glad to have it after it snowed in August!

Wait for Sales

If you can wait long enough, most gear will eventually go on sale. The outdoor industry runs on a seasonal cycle. Typically winter gear goes on sale in the spring and summer gear goes on sale in the fall.

Many stores have big Black Friday and Boxing Day sales (typically selling left over summer merchandise). REI has its famous Anniversary Sale in May. MEC runs its Mountain Days event in July.

Gear to Look For

In the fall, look for discounted summer hiking clothes, hiking boots and maybe even tents and sleeping bags.

In the spring, look for deals on puffy jackets and snowshoes left over from winter.

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Qualify to Get Pro Deals

Outdoor gear and clothing brands often provide industry pro deals where they sell gear at wholesale prices (usually 30-60% off). The thinking is that if people buy their gear on pro deal and like it, they are likely to recommend it to other people who have to buy it at full price. 

There are a few ways to qualify for pro deals. One of the easiest ways is to get a job at an outdoor store. If you work as a hiking guide, a ski patroller, with search and rescue, in law enforcement or for the military, you might also be eligible for pro deals too.

High end brands like Patagonia, Outdoor Research, and Darn Tough Socks all have pro deals. Lots of other brands do too – just check their websites to find out.

I worked at an outdoor store and at the head office of an outdoor retailer and got lots of my gear through pro deals. If you’re serious about getting in to backpacking, a part-time job at an outdoor store is definitely worth it, just for the pro deal access!

Gear to Look For

Almost every brand you can think of has a pro deal program.

Be sure to do the math on the discount before you purchase and factor in shipping costs, exchange rates, and duty – not all pro deals are actually that great of a deal.

Also keep in mind that you usually can’t return, exchange, or resell what you buy on pro deal so make sure you’ve got the correct sizing info.

Two hikers post in the Canadian Rocky Mountains wearing big backpacking packs
I got lots of my gear through pro deals and I’m still using lots of it today.

Go to Sample Sales or Factory Sales

Gear brands often have sample sales or factory sales once or twice a year to clear out gear. Typically these sales take place in the cities where the brands have their headquarters or sales offices. They aren’t well advertised so they can be tough to find out about.

The clothing and gear at sample sales may have already been used for photo shoots or sales meetings, but they are often in brand new or near new condition. 

At factory sales, the clothing and gear often have small imperfections that make them unsuitable for sale at the full retail price. These imperfections are often cosmetic and don’t affect function, such as incorrect colours, uneven stitching or tiny stains. 

Sometimes the stuff at sample sales or factory sales is just extra stock that the brand wants to sell quickly at a cheap price.

Gear to Look For

While some sample sales will have a range of sizes, you’ll have the best luck if you wear a size 2-6 in women’s clothing or a medium/size 32 pants in mens.

At factory sales pretty much anything could be on offer. Be sure to look over the gear carefully before you buy and make sure you are ok with any imperfections.

Check Amazon

Is there anything Amazon doesn’t sell? You’ll find all the usual big gear brands on there, and sometimes they have a slightly better price (and usually lightning fast shipping). It can also be worth waiting for Amazon Prime Day for insane deals.

However, Amazon also has smaller gear brands as well as some cheap knock-off brands you might never have heard of. The quality can be questionable on these knock-off brands, but the prices can be insanely cheap.

A few years ago, I bought this cheap folding table on Amazon to take on camping trips. It was over $100 cheaper than the Helinox table it’s a knock-off of, and it seems to be equivalent quality!

Gear to Look For

Be sure to read lots of reviews on any gear from a brand you don’t recognize. Not everything on these sites is exactly as described. There’s tons of choice out there for everything from tents, to sleeping bags to rain jackets. But as always, buyer beware.

Two people sit in camp chairs and eat off a small folding table on a beach. The table is from Amazon, which is a place to save money on hiking gear
Using our Amazon folding table on a beach on Bruny Island in Tasmania, Australia. The table is small enough to pack into the camping gear that we fly with.

Work at an Outdoor Store

I worked at an outdoor store for three years during university. It was a great way to make more outdoorsy friends and help pay for school. But the big reason to work in an outdoor store is the staff discount.

Discounts vary depending on where you work, but between 10 and 30% off most gear is the standard. You might get even bigger discounts on some brands.

Gear to Look For

Literally everything! Ask your manager if discounts stack for sales and if there are any annual events where staff get a larger discount (for example around the holidays) to help plan when you will buy gear.

Shop the Used Gear Section at Outdoor Retailers and Brands

In an effort to be more environmentally responsible and keep gear out of the landfill, some outdoor retails and brands have begun reselling used gear. They clean and repair the gear, then put it up for sale on a dedicated section of their website. Prices are usually pretty good and there is often a warranty too.

For example REI offer used gear on their REI Re/Supply site. Patagonia does something similar with their Patagonia Worn Wear program.

Gear to Look For

Patagonia has lots of gently used outdoor clothing, especially jackets and fleece. REI focuses mostly on gear like sleeping pads, tents, skis, and backpacks.

Become an Outdoor Content Creator

I’ve been an outdoor writer and content creator for about 10 years. Many outdoor companies send me free gear. Sometimes it’s in exchange for a post on social media or a mention in a blog post. But sometimes they just send it to me and “post about it if you like, no worries if not.” (And of course I always disclose when I get something for free or am being paid to talk about it.)

In the beginning I had to reach out to brands to ask to work with them, but now that I’m more established, lots of brands contact me. I actually turn down a lot of free gear since I don’t need it.

Gear to Look For

I’m careful only to accept gear that I will actually use and that I feel comfortable recommending to my audience.

Often gear brands (or more often their PR agencies) want to send you the latest thing that they are promoting. If it’s not something your audience will appreciate, say no. Your audience knows when you are shamelessly selling to them to make a buck or get free gear and they don’t like it. Keep your brand partnerships authentic.

A hiker looks down at a lake from the top of the High Note Trail in Whistler
This received this Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake sun hoodie in a PR package. But it’s become one of my favourite hiking shirts – you’ll see me wearing it tons of photos all over this website. Here I’m wearing it on the High Note Trail in Whistler.
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Final Thoughts

Unfortunately there a lot of barriers to getting into the outdoors, and the cost of gear is one of them. I hope this list of ways to save money on hiking gear helps you get the gear you need to get outside and have fun.

MORE GEAR POSTS:

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]]> https://dawnoutdoors.com/ways-to-save-money-on-hiking-gear/feed/ 6 The Ultimate Yellowstone Packing List for Every Summer Visitor https://dawnoutdoors.com/yellowstone-packing-list/ https://dawnoutdoors.com/yellowstone-packing-list/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:48:37 +0000 https://dawnoutdoors.com/?p=6469 A few years ago, I spent a week in Yellowstone National Park. OMG, what an incredible place! I did a bunch of research about what to see before I went, but I couldn’t find much info on what to pack for Yellowstone. Yellowstone presents some unique challenges for visitors. It is located in the Rocky …

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]]> A few years ago, I spent a week in Yellowstone National Park. OMG, what an incredible place! I did a bunch of research about what to see before I went, but I couldn’t find much info on what to pack for Yellowstone.

Yellowstone presents some unique challenges for visitors. It is located in the Rocky Mountains and the park is at a high elevation. Most of it is over 7000 feet (2100m) above sea level and subject to unpredictable mountain weather.

I saw lots of unprepared people shivering in the cold, soaking wet in rainstorms or with lobster-like sunburned skin. (And to be honest, sometimes I was one of them.) Even though June, July, and August are summer in Yellowstone, it’s not like summer everywhere else in America!

To have an awesome time on your summer trip to Yellowstone, you should pack a few key items along with your regular travel gear. Below you’ll find a complete Yellowstone packing list for all visitors.

I also have a bonus list of what hikers should bring to Yellowstone and one for campers too. AND, I’ve got a Yellowstone packing list for picnickers. (Since I think picnicking in Yellowstone National Park is way better than eating at restaurants every day, and cheaper too.) [Insert your own Yogi Bear picnic basket joke here ;)]

In this post you’ll find:

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

WANT MORE YELLOWSTONE INFO?  Check out these posts:

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

The Basics: Things Everyone Needs to Bring to Yellowstone

Yellowstone is a unique place. It can be brutally sunny, cold and wet… all in the same afternoon. The wildlife watching is  spectacular… and they are also not to be messed with. It’s also pretty remote.

While there are a few small stores in the park, they don’t have everything. I found it helped to be self-sufficient. Here’s my list of the things I think every single visitor to Yellowstone should pack.

Sun Protection

The sun can be really harsh in Yellowstone since it’s at such a high elevation. Bring a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for protection. You’ll also want lots of high SPF sunscreen and some SPF lip balm to avoid burned lips.

I used my Outdoor Research Oasis Sun Hat in Yellowstone since it has a wide brim and I can fold it up into my pack when I’m not wearing it.

READ NEXT: Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather

Two hikers wearing wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen in Yellowstone National Park. Make sure to put sun hats on your Yellowstone packing list.
Decked out in our sunhats, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen while hiking near the Yellowstone River.

Polarized Sunglasses

I like to wear polarized sunglasses as they let you see colours that are truer to reality than what you get with regular sunglasses. They also help you see into the water.

In Yellowstone, that lets you see deeper into the hot pools and lakes, which is really cool. I like Goodr sunglasses since they have fun frame options and they aren’t too expensive for polarized glasses. 

Camera with a Long Lens

The main reasons people come to Yellowstone are the amazing scenery and abundant wildlife. And of course, you’ll want photos of both. Your phone is fine for shots of scenery, but for wildlife, you’ll want an SLR camera with a long lens.

I’m the biggest idiot and forgot mine at home! I was cursing myself the whole time I was in Yellowstone as I missed out on some amazing wildlife shots. And if you are shooting with a long lens, you’ll want a tripod for stability. (I forgot that at home too! Oops.)

I did remember to bring my Sony A6400 camera. It’s a mirrorless camera which is more compact than a full DSLR but still produces high-quality images. I find it easy to use, plus it’s not that expensive.

When I remember to bring it, I use a budget Sony 55-200m lens to shoot wildlife. I also have a lightweight Sirui T-025SK carbon fiber tripod.

Binoculars or Spotting Scope

I’ve never seen more people carrying binoculars than I did in Yosemite. Binoculars are essential for watching wildlife since you need to stay so far away from them for safety. My advice would be to get the most powerful binoculars or spotting scope you can afford. It really makes a difference.

If you’re like me and know nothing about shopping for binoculars, check out this post on the best travel binoculars for wildlife watching.

We brought a compact GoSky Titan monocular that my husband found on Amazon. It’s pretty compact and not too expensive, but it still has great magnification. Our favourite part is that it comes with an adapter to attach your phone. That way you can turn it into a giant zoom lens for your cell phone. Pretty cool!

Two bison in Yellowstone National Park. Photo taken with a monocular and phone adapter. A spotting scope or binoculars is a must on your Yellowstone packing list.
Watching bison through our monocular was really cool!

Bear Spray

Yellowstone has a very high population of both grizzly bears and black bears. While both species usually stay away from people, they have been known to prowl through campgrounds, defend their cubs, or surprise people on trails. I saw both grizzlies and black bears on my trip – a grizzly bear walked right past our backcountry campsite one night after dinner!

Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when hiking. You can buy bear spray at most stores inside Yellowstone National Park, but it’s MUCH more expensive compared to buying it beforehand.

Buy bear spray and make sure you get a a holster so you can attach it to your backpack or belt.

READ NEXT: Bear Safety for Hikers, Campers and Backpackers

Fleece or Puffy Jacket

Even if you visit in the middle of summer, Yellowstone can be chilly since it’s over 6000 feet (1800 meters) above sea level. Pack a cozy fleece or puffy jacket to wear for cold mornings and evenings. On my visit in mid-June, I ended up wearing mine at some point every day.

My husband brought his Patagonia Nano Puff insulated jacket. It packs down super-small but still has plenty of warmth.

I packed my favourite MEC Rockwall fleece, which I love since it is soft and has a bit of stretch. But any fleece jacket will do. You also can’t go wrong with the budget-friendly REI Trailmade Fleece.

Reusable Water Bottle and Travel Mug

You need to stay hydrated at high elevations. But adding plastic waste to our world sucks. Bring your own reusable water bottle and fill up at visitor centres, hotels, and campgrounds.

I don’t go anywhere without my Hydroflask. (My husband jokes that it’s my emotional support water bottle!) It keeps my water cold all day, which makes it worth the price.

If you’re a coffee drinker, it also makes sense to bring your own mug to avoid a throw-away paper cup. Plus that way your coffee stays warm longer. I love my YETI Rambler Tumbler. It keeps coffee hot for hours and the magnetic slider lid keeps it closed. It’s also easy to disable the lid to clean it.

Phone and Power Bank

These days, we all take our phones everywhere. So, of course, you’ll want yours in Yellowstone. Keep in mind that there is no cell service in most of the park, and in the areas where there is coverage, it can get spotty.

This means that your phone battery will die quickly while it keeps looking for a signal. (And also because of all those geyser videos you’ll be taking!) Make sure you bring a portable power bank so you can charge your phone on the go.

I use a tiny Anker power bank that charges my phone a couple of times. Unlike some of the crappy power banks you can buy on Amazon (or at gas stations) these are high quality – I’ve had mine for years and it’s still going strong.

Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

There are lots of toilets around Yellowstone National Park. Most parking lots and trailheads have one. However, the toilets don’t always have a good supply of toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Keep some with you just in case.

And if you really need to go and can’t make it to a toilet, go to the bathroom the Leave No Trace way: Dig a small hole 70 big steps away from trails, roads, campsites, and water. Then bury your waste, and pack out your toilet paper in a plastic bag. I carry a super lightweight titanium trowel for backcountry poo-mergencies. Hilariously, it’s called the Deuce of Spades.

Bug Spray

The mosquitos in Yellowstone can be bad, especially in early summer. If you’re sensitive to bites, bring some insect repellent. I use bug spray made with picaridin since it is scientifically proven to be the most effective and isn’t as harsh as DEET. Skip the herbal and citronella insect repellents – they don’t work.

Rain Jacket

Yellowstone still gets rain in the summertime. It’s very common for thunderstorms to spring up in the afternoon, leading to a quick (and intense) rain showers.

Bring a lightweight rain jacket just in case you get caught in the rain. I love my Mountain Hardwear Minimizer Gore-Tex Paclite Plus Jacket since it is insanely light, packs down super-small and breathes well. The only downside is that it’s not cheap.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly packable rain jacket I recommend the Outdoor Research Helium or the REI Rainier.

READ NEXT: 5 Tips for Hiking in the Rain

A crowd watching Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park
The crowd watching Old Faithful erupt. A few minutes before this a huge hailstorm blew through! I was glad to have my rain jacket!

First Aid Kit

You can buy basic first aid supplies at stores in the park. But that won’t seem like a good option when the nearest one is 30 minutes away and someone needs a bandaid or a Tylenol. Pack a basic first aid kit. Make sure it includes bandages, gauze, and medical tape. 

You’ll also want to have lots of foot care supplies such as Moleskin or Second Skin for blisters. (Check out my full list of blister care and prevention tips and tricks.)

Bring anti-inflammatory painkillers like Advil, and anti-diarrhea pills like Immodium just in case. And don’t forget your usual prescription medications.

I like the Adventure Medical Ultralight first aid kits since they come in a water-resistant pouch. I always add more stuff to them, like more blister care and bandaids.

Bathing Suit and Quick-Dry Towel (Optional)

If you’re visiting during the warm summer months, bring a bathing suit so you can cool off in one of Yellowstone’s two swimming areas: Boiling River and Firehole River. Due to high water levels and strong currents, both of these spots are usually closed until early July, so I wasn’t able to swim on my mid-June visit. Some of the hotels in the area also have pools or hot tubs.

Don’t bring a traditional cotton beach towel – they take up tons of space and take forever to dry. I use a quick-drying microfibre travel towel from PackTowl. It absorbs lots of water and dries really fast.

Moisturizer (Optional)

If you come from a humid, coastal climate like me, you will find the high mountain air really drying. My skin complained for our entire visit! I wish I had brought some good moisturizer.

Fishing Gear (Optional)

Fishing is REALLY popular in Yellowstone. If you want to fish, you need to get a special Yellowstone fishing permit and comply with tackle restrictions. My husband didn’t bring his fishing gear since we didn’t think we’d have time to fish. He was definitely jealous of all the fly fishers we saw!

A man fishing on Yellowstone Lake
Fishing on Yellowstone Lake

Dog Leash (If Applicable)

You can bring your dog to Yellowstone, but it has to be on a short leash (less than 6 feet) at all times. Dogs must also stay within 100 feet of roads, parking lots and campgrounds. That means your dog can’t hike with you or visit any of the thermal features.

You can find more info about visiting Yellowstone with dogs on the National Park website.

Hiking Gear to Pack for Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone has TONS of hiking trails. Most visitors stick to the roadside pullouts and never venture on to a trail. That means the hiking trails are MUCH less crowded than the rest of the park.

If you’re planning to go hiking in Yellowstone, you’ll need to pack the 10 essentials, just as you would on any hike. But here are a few other things you should bring for your Yellowstone hike.

READ NEXT: The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike

A hiker at Fairy Falls in Yellowstone National Park
Hiking to Fairy Falls near Grand Prismatic Spring

Day Pack

If you’re going hiking, you’ll need a backpack to carry your gear. You can use any old backpack you have lying around the house. But I find it much more comfortable to hike with a dedicated hiking backpack.

For day hikes, I like ones that have about 20 litres of capacity and have a spot to hold my hydration reservoir. I also love ones with hip belt pockets so I can easily grab snacks, lip balm or my phone without taking the pack off.

I’ve been using a Gregory Maya for years and absolutely love it! It’s a women’s pack but it comes in a men’s version too called the Miko.

Hiking Boots

The trails in Yellowstone are pretty well maintained, but they can be steep or muddy. Wearing hiking boots gives you ankle support and keeps your feet dry in wet conditions. The tread on hiking boots also gives you better traction on steep slopes so you won’t skid out the way you might in running shoes.

I brought my trusty Salomon X Ultra Mid hiking boots to Yellowstone and wore them a LOT. They’re pretty lightweight and breathable, so they don’t get too hot.

Hiking Socks

One of the biggest mistakes new hikers make is wearing their regular cotton socks on a hike. Cotton socks hold in your sweat. That’s a surefire way to get blisters!

Wearing proper hiking socks made of wool or synthetics will help keep your feet dry. I love Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew socks. They’re comfortable and they have a lifetime warranty. They’re made in America too!

READ NEXT: How to Prevent Blisters When Hiking

Quick-drying Hiking Clothing

You can definitely hike in your regular clothes, but they won’t be as comfortable. Bring some hiking pants or shorts and a hiking shirt made of quick-drying synthetic material. They’ll keep you cool and dry when you get sweaty!

My current hiking favorites are the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoodie (it’s one of my favourite sun hoodies) and Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts. In hot weather, quick-drying hiking underwear are a must have to avoid discomfort “down there”. Read my guide to hiking underwear to see my top picks.

A hiker on a trail above the Yellowstone River
Hiking near the Yellowstone River Picnic Area

Guidebook and Maps (Optional)

You can get ideas about where to hike from the visitor centres or the park brochure, but I found having a guidebook really helpful. It was great to see all the hike options, then choose one that sounded best to us.

We bought the Yellowstone Trails guide from Yellowstone Forever. (It’s a non-profit organization that supports the park.) Other great options are A Ranger’s Guide to Yellowstone Day Hikes and Hiking Yellowstone National Park.

National Geographic makes the best topographic maps of Yellowstone National Park. They show all the trails. We just brought the general Yellowstone National Park map, but there are smaller, more detailed maps for various park regions too. 

Trekking Poles (Optional)

Some trails in Yellowstone have a lot of steep ascents and descents as well as some uneven terrain. Trekking poles can be really helpful for saving your joints on the downhills or keeping your balance in the mud.

I’ve been hiking with poles for the last 15 years and can’t imagine going without them. So of course, I brought my Black Diamond Trail trekking poles to Yellowstone. If you want a budget pair, the Cascade Mountain Tech trekking poles get great reviews.

Yellowstone National Park Picnic Gear

Yes, Yellowstone has restaurants. But they are expensive and many of the attractions far from the nearest restaurant.

We packed a picnic lunch for most of our days in the park. It was a fun way to slow down in the middle of the day and just chill out at a beautiful spot. It was also MUCH less expensive than eating out every day.

Yellowstone National Park has lots of picnic areas with tables and restrooms. Many of them are a little bit off-the-beaten-path so you get to explore some of the quieter parts of the park. Here’s my picnic packing list for Yellowstone:

Groceries and Snacks

There are a few small stores in Yellowstone, but they have very limited groceries. And the prices are expensive! If possible, stock up before you get to the park.

During our trip, we shopped at grocery stores in Gardiner, MT, West Yellowstone, MT and Jackson, WY. They all had a pretty good selection of things at reasonable prices. 

Woman eating cheese at a Yellowstone picnic area
Chowing down on some cheese on one of our many Yellowstone picnics. Photo credit: My husband who enjoys taking unflattering photos of me.

Cooler

It can get really warm in the afternoon in Yellowstone, so a cooler is a must. You don’t need anything super fancy. We have a small 18 quart Coleman cooler. It held ice for a day or so, then we just bought more at the park store.

Since our trip to Yellowstone we splurged and got a YETI Roadie 24 cooler. It’s definitely expensive, but the increase in performance is huge! We’ve used it on tons of trips (including to Moab, Utah) and it holds ice for days and days.

Pro tip: To make your ice last longer, cover your cooler with a warm jacket, blanket, or sleeping bag to provide more insulation and shade when you leave it in a hot car.

Plates, Forks, Cutting Board, and Knife

We brought a couple of camping plates and our trusty camping sporks to eat off of. Having a cutting board and knife to cut up veggies, sausage and cheese was also helpful. We have this cutting board and knife set. It folds in half and the knife stows inside!

Reusable Food Containers and Ziploc Bags

We brought a couple of plastic food containers and a handful of Ziploc bags and they were so helpful. We stored leftovers in them and used them to protect groceries from getting soggy in the cooler.

Table Cloth (Optional)

The one piece of picnic gear that I forgot to bring was a plastic table cloth. I was definitely jealous when I saw other groups using one. They are handy to have to cover less-than-clean picnic tables. And they are easy to wipe down when you’re done. Plus they make you feel a bit fancy!

Yellowstone National Park Camping Gear

One of the best ways to experience Yellowstone National Park is to camp. (I liked it so much I wrote a whole guide with everything you need to know about camping in Yellowstone.)

Most of the crowds go back to their hotels in the evenings and the park really quiets down. You may also get to see more wildlife as some animals like to hang around the campgrounds.

When planning to camp in Yellowstone, keep in mind that all the campsites are above 6000 feet (1800 meters), which means they can be chilly at night, even in the summer. The average low temperature in June, July, and August is between 34 and 39F (1-4C). Brrrr!

As well, afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common, so you’ll want to make sure you are prepared for rain. Use these tips for camping in the rain to make sure you stay dry.

For camping in Yellowstone, bring all the things on my picnic gear list above, plus these items:

Tent

Bring a waterproof tent that can stand up to rain and wind. Choose one with a full-length rain fly that reaches all the way to the ground and covers the door. That offers MUCH more protection than the ones with a little fly on the top.

We brought our MEC Volt 4 tent to Yellowstone and it held up well. Another good option is the REI Base Camp.

Three tents in Norris Campground in Yosemite National Park on a rainy day. A waterproof tent is on my Yellowstone packing list.
Soggy tents in the Norris campground. Many of the people camped near us had to rig up tarps to protect their leaky tents.

Warm Sleeping Bag and Insulated Sleeping Pad

The campsites in Yellowstone are all over 6000 feet (1800m) elevation. Many of them are over 7000 feet (2100m). It can be cold at night up there.

Pack a sleeping bag rated at least 32F (0C). Choose one with a hood for extra warmth. The REI Siesta 20 sleeping bag is a great budget pick that will still keep you warm.

Even the warmest sleeping bag can’t protect you from the cold ground. Sleeping pads don’t just provide comfort – they also provide insulation since you lose heat to the ground.

Choose a sleeping pad that has an R-value of at least 2.5. (R-value measures insulation and warmth). The Sea to Summit Comfort Light sleeping pad is a good budget pick that gives you comfort and warmth.

If you expect really cold weather or know you feel the cold at night, pick a pad with an even higher R-value. I use a Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xtherm since I sleep really cold. A cheaper option is the Big Agnes Rapide SL.

READ NEXT: How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

Thermal Base Layer Top and Bottoms

When it’s chilly, I sleep in thermal base layers while camping. They keep me way warmer than regular PJs. They are also nice to wear around the campsite under my clothes on cold evenings and mornings.

Choose mid-weight thermals made of polyester or merino wool and be sure to pack both bottoms and a long sleeved top.

I sleep cold so I wear the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Crew top and Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer bottoms. If you’re looking for a budget option, the REI Midweight base layer top and REI Midweight base layer bottoms are good.

Warm Hat and Gloves

You lose a lot of heat through your head and hands. Pack a cozy beanie and some lightweight fleece or wool gloves to wear in the evenings.

Headlamp or Flashlight

Pack a headlamp or flashlight to find your way around at night. I like using a headlamp since it keeps my hands free. I use a Fenix HM50R headlamp. It’s super bright and easy to use. Plus the battery is rechargeable and lasts a long time.

Stove, Fuel, Pots and Cooking Utensils

Most campsites in Yellowstone have fire pits, but there can be campfire bans in dry weather. Cooking on a campfire can be fun, but using a stove is much easier and more reliable.

We use a basic Coleman 2 burner stove. The design has been around for decades for good reason – they are simple to use and super-durable.

Dishwashing Basin, Soap and Scrubber

Most of the Yellowstone campgrounds don’t have dishwashing sinks and you aren’t allowed to wash dishes in the restrooms or at the water taps. Instead, they ask you to wash dishes at a basin in your campsite, then dump the soapy water in the restroom toilet.

We didn’t bring a basin so we had to wash our dishes in our largest pot. Next time I’ll definitely bring a wash basin. We saw some campers with this nifty collapsible dish basin. It stows flat when you aren’t using it and has handles for carrying it to a place where you can dump it out. I think I’ll definitely be picking one up for our next trip.

Camping Chairs

Sure, you could sit around your picnic table. But that means you can’t get close your to campfire! You need chairs. We brought our Helinox camping chairs since they pack up super small and are pretty comfortable.

Kitchen Tarp

Most of the campers we saw in Yellowstone didn’t have a kitchen tarp. That meant that on the stormy evenings, they were cooking dinner in the rain.

We brought our lightweight backpacking tarp and strung it up on ropes over our picnic table. It gave us a dry place to eat and cook, which was so nice during the storms. You could also just get a cheap blue poly tarp.

A few groups had fancy free standing kitchen shelters with bug screens. One of those is definitely going on my wish list.

READ NEXT: Camping in Yellowstone: Everything You Need to Know

Things You Shouldn’t Bring to Yellowstone

How Cold Does it Get in Yellowstone? What is the Weather Like?

Yellowstone is in the Rocky Mountains and on average, the park is at an elevation of 8,000 feet (2,400 m). That means that it can be cold, even in the summer. The weather is also very unpredictable and it changes often.

Here is a chart that show’s Yellowstone’s average high and low temperatures for each month as well as the number of days with rain. If you’re camping, keep in mind that the lows are overnight temps.

MonthAverage HighAverage LowRain
Jan28°F3°F13 days
Feb31°F4°F11 days
Mar39°F10°F14 days
Apr46°F19°F13 days
May53°F28°F12 days
Jun63°F34°F10 days
Jul73°F39°F5 days
Aug71°F37°F6 days
Sep62°F31°F7 days
Oct48°F24°F10 days
Nov34°F13°F12 days
Dec26°F4°F13 days
Data from NOAA

Summer in Yellowstone is generally warm but not hot. Daytime temperatures are around 70°F. Nights are much cooler, especially at high elevations. Expect thunderstorms in the afternoons.

The best general weather forecast is the Yellowstone National Park forecast from NOAA. Don’t use forecasts for nearby towns since they are too far away and at lower elevations.

Since the park is so big, look for a weather forecast for the area you want to visit. I like to use Spotwx to get a forecast for the exact place I’m visiting.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Final Thoughts

With these Yellowstone packing lists, you should have everything you need to have an awesome trip, whether you are hiking, camping, picnicking or just touring around. If you’ve already been to Yellowstone, what was your one “must-have” item you brought? Tell me in the comments.

MORE YELLOWSTONE POSTS:

MORE ADVICE FOR CAMPERS AND HIKERS:

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