Winter Packing List | U.S. National Parks

Not sure what to pack for your winter road trip? We can help! Don't get caught in the cold without these essential items for your winter National Park road trip. 

Denali National Park in Alaska

Clothing

The weather can change at a moment's notice, so it is important to keep items nearby for sudden temperature drops.

  • Long underwear (Dress in layers to keep your body insulated)
  • Mittens or gloves
  • Hat
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Warm socks (wool socks are often recommended)
  • Sweater
  • Jacket (Water-repellent clothing is often recommended to help keep you warm and dry)
  • Rain jacket, parka, windbreaker or umbrella
  • Snow boots
  • Hiking boots
  • Scarf
  • Hiking boots 
  • Face coverings

Toiletries

Winter weather can mean dry skin or treacherously cold conditions. Make sure you are prepared for dry skin, chapped lips and everything in between. 

  • Medication 
  • SPF sunscreen for lips, face and hands (the reflected glare from snow and ice can be intense, especially at higher altitudes)
  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Brush/Comb
  • Face wash
  • Face cream
  • Lotion 
  • Q-tips
  • Hand warmers

Miscellaneous Items

Weather you're hiking through the wildnerness or setting up for s'mores by the fire, make sure your campsite is equipped with these oftentimes forgotten items. 

  • Snacks 
  • Water bottle
  • Travel mug/Cup
  • Camera
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Earplugs
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Sunglasses
  • Small medical kit
  • Trash bags
  • Bandana/handkerchief (for runny noses)
  • Battery-operated alarm clock/wristwatch
  • Dry bags/waterproof bags
  • Binoculars
  • Camera
  • Cash
  • Identification card
  • National Park Pass (if required; check with the National Park you are visiting for more up-to-date information on entry requirements)

Planning a Trip During COVID-19

From sightseeing on vacation to visiting far-away family, non-essential travel is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. We've rounded up important things to consider when you're taking a road trip during COVID-19.

Planning a Trip During COVID-19

From sightseeing on vacation to visiting far-away family, non-essential travel is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. We've rounded up important things to consider when you're taking a road trip during COVID-19.

Packing Your Car for a Road Trip

 
You're ready to hit the road. Make sure your car is, too, with these convenient lists of must-have items. 

In Car Essentials

Your road trip starts and ends with your car! Make sure you're equipped to handle important situations:

  • Driver’s license
  • Car registration and insurance information (When renting, oftentimes your car rental agreement will act as your registration and/or insurance)
  • Car manual
  • Extra car key (Not on the same car ring. If you lose one, you'll lose them all.)
  • AAA membership card and/or phone number(s) for Roadside Assistance
  • Spare tire (With a tire jack and tools to change a flat)
  • Flashlight
  • Paper map (For when you're stuck with no service)
  • First-aid kit 

Roadside Emergency Kit

No one plans on breaking down during a road trip, but it can happen. Be prepared with a roadside emergency kit.

  • Quart of oil
  • Jug of coolant or water
  • Wiper fluid
  • Portable gas container
  • Ice scraper
  • Small shovel/Trowel (In case you need to dig yourself out) 
  • Tire chains

Road Trip Must Haves

The number one rule of the road: comfort is key. Make sure you and your travel companions are prepared:

  • Phone
  • Chargers for cell phone, tablet, digital camera and/or laptop
  • Facial tissue
  • GPS (or traffic app like Waze or Google Maps)
  • Wet wipes/baby wipes
  • Paper towels
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Sunglasses
  • Air freshener/Deodorizer
  • Blankets and pillows
  • Sweater/Sweatshirt
  • Comfortable shoes

Popular Road Trip Cars

Take your pick from one of these classic road trip car options.

SUVs

Room for one more? With an SUV rental, you'll have room for baggage, souveneirs and last-minute additions. 

View SUVs

2-Door Jeep

2 is better than 1 with a 2-door jeep from Enterprise. Bring a friend, pick the playlist and start your next trip.

View 2-Door Jeeps

4-Door Jeep

With more leg room and ample space for luggage, a 4-door Jeep is perfect for family outings. 

View- 4-Door Jeeps

Rental Car Resources

 

From our Complete Clean Pledge to curbside pickup options, we're here to help you get back on the road again. 

COVID-19 Car Rental FAQs

Check our COVID-19 FAQs for information on hours of operation, reservations and steps we're taking to keep employees and customers safe.

View COVID-19 FAQs

Planning a Road Trip During COVID-19

Are you thinking about taking a road trip during COVID-19? Check out our tips and resources to consider before you leave.

Plan Your Trip

Complete Clean Pledge

Learn about our commitment to protecting the well-being of customers and employees, including our Complete Clean Pledge.

See Details

Road Trip Ideas

Looking for road trip ideas? You've come to the right place! Explore scenic drives along the West Coast, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and much more.