25 Top Yosemite Packing List Items for 2025 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

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Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California and is one of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders. You’re sure to be astounded by the iconic views, giant trees, and fantastic granite cliffs.

If it’s your first time visiting Yosemite, it can be hard to know what to pack for your trip! We’ve put together this awesome Yosemite Packing List to help you out.

We also include sections on what to wear at Yosemite, what NOT to bring, and answers to all your Yosemite FAQs.

25 Top Yosemite Packing List Items for 2025 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring
Table of contents
See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

What to Pack for Yosemite- 25 Essentials

  • 1. Neck Wallet

    Neck Wallet

    You’ll definitely want to bring a neck wallet with you on your trip to Yosemite. It’ll keep your important belongings safe and organized while you hike. Tuck your phone, credit cards, cash, and keys away in this handy pouch and you’ll be good to go!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    charger

    If you’re relying on your smartphone or camera during your trip to Yosemite, you won’t want to risk your battery dying at an inconvenient time. Toss this lipstick-size portable charger in your backpack and charge your devices on the go!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 3. Cooling Towel

    towel pink

    With so many trails to hike and views to explore, you’re bound to work up a sweat discovering Yosemite. Even if you avoid visiting during the hot summer months, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you warm up, even after a little bit of hiking. This cooling towel is compact enough to throw into your day bag and forget about it until you need it. If you start to get a little too hot, wet the towel, wring it out, and you have a refreshingly cold towel to cool you off.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 4. Backpack

    Backpack

    A backpack like this one will be your best and most convenient method of carrying your belongings during your visit to Yosemite. Keep everything you need with you on your back so you’ll be mobile and able to go wherever you want at a moment’s notice.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 5. Packing Cubes

    Hero Packing cubes

    Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized and help you avoid overpacking for your trip to Yosemite. They come in different sizes and in a variety of fun colors so you’ll be able to pack and unpack without a problem.

    Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.

    Or view them on Amazon.com

  • 6. Travel Insurance for Yosemite

    Travel Insurance for Yosemite

    If Yosemite is more than 100 miles away from home for you, you’ll definitely want to invest in some good travel insurance to protect your trip. Faye is our favorite way to find the perfect insurance plan for all of our trips. They make it easy to get a low rate for protection against common issues like flight cancelations, baggage loss, theft, trip cancelations, and medical coverage. The hospital bills are what can really get out of hand quickly! And if your domestic provider isn’t covering you, Faye is a no-brainer.

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye

  • 7. Filtered Water Bottle

    Filtered Water Bottle

    There’s no doubt you’ll need a reliable, reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated during your trek through Yosemite. This one is great because it comes with a built-in filter to ensure the water you’re drinking is clean and safe. If you want one that’s made for real outdoorsmen (in cases like having to drink from a river or consume contaminated water), I would recommend going for the Grayl instead of the Brita.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 8. Hiking Boots

    hicking-boot

    These are a must-have for your trip to a massive national park. You’ll need a good, sturdy pair of hiking boots like these to keep your feet comfortable while you’re hiking and exploring all that Yosemite has to offer.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 9. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Hero Umbrella

    You won’t want to get caught in the rain at Yosemite without a proper windproof travel umbrella! This one is awesome because it’s big enough to cover you and your backpack while you hike, keeping your most important belongings dry.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 10. Binoculars with Phone Adapter

    Binoculars with Phone Adapter

    One of our favorite things to bring to national parks are a pair of binoculars to spot the wildlife and look out along the vast landscapes of nature. This pair is fantastic because they have a phone adapter so you can stream and photograph what you’re seeing. This really helps you capture the memories so they’re not lost forever. And it weighs less than a pound!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 11. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    Magenta travel towe

    A quick-dry towel is a great alternative to a regular towel and will definitely come in handy while you’re at Yosemite. It’s lightweight, compact, and dries super fast so you can use it over and over again and quickly pack it up without a worry when it’s time to go.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 12. Electrolytes

    Hydration

    It’s so important to stay hydrated when you’re spending long days hiking and exploring in Yosemite. Be sure to bring these electrolytes to add to your drinking water to ensure your body is properly absorbing the water you’re putting into it.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 13. Hiking Poles

    Poles

    Some people prefer to use hiking poles when embarking on serious hiking trips. These will help you stay steady and balanced while on the trail, plus they’re adjustable so anyone can use them! Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran hiker, these hiking poles are a necessary luxury for safety and comfort on your trip to Yosemite.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 14. Activated Charcoal

    Activated Charcoal

    If you eat or drink something that results in an upset stomach during your trip to Yosemite, it could really ruin your trip. Be sure to bring these activated charcoal pills to quickly absorb and expel the toxins in your body to keep you on your feet.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 15. Waterproof Pocket Blanket

    Waterproof Pocket Blanket

    This is our favorite travel-sized blanket for adventures! Instead of folding up a giant blanket to tote around, this one is literally pocket-sized and compresses down into a small pouch. It’s waterproof and comes with stakes so it doesn’t blow away. You’ll love having it for camping, beach days, picnics, and more.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 16. Deodorant Wipes

    Deodorant

    During long days of hiking and physical activity in Yosemite, you’re bound to be sweaty and smelly! Freshen up quickly with these handy deodorant wipes. Simply toss a pack of these in your backpack and keep yourself feeling and smelling fresh in a pinch.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 17. Mosquito-Repellent Wristbands

    mosquito repellent wristbands

    Mosquitos are prevalent at Yosemite, especially around dusk and dawn hours. To protect against any mosquito-borne illnesses, use these wearable wristbands that use citronella to deter pests! They are super convenient, water-resistant, and reusable. We love that they’re safe for kids since they don’t use harmful chemicals and toxins.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 18. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Since you won’t have countertop space or anywhere to put your toiletries, this hanging toiletry bag is a miracle worker! Hook it on any branch, pole, or hook, and you can unfold it to expose 4 giant compartments that work like a built-in shelf. We use it to vertically optimize our lives since it can hold our entire family’s toiletries (including all shower, skin, and dental products, as well as makeup, towels, accessories, medication, etc.)

    View on Amazon.com

  • 19. Waterproof Phone Pouch

    Waterproof Phone Pouch

    Keep your smartphone protected from the elements with this handy waterproof phone case! Whether you’re taking a dip in the water, if it starts to rain, or you just want to keep your device safe from dust and dirt, you can’t go wrong with this waterproof pouch.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 20. Affordable Underwater Camera

    underwater camera

    You’ll certainly want to capture all your favorite memories at Yosemite, both in and out of the water! This affordable underwater camera is lightweight, compact, and durable, which is perfect for a hiking trip in this gorgeous natural setting.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 21. Headlamp

    Headlamp

    I advise against exploring at night without a headlamp or trustworthy flashlight. We prefer the headlamp since it will keep you hands-free. You don’t want to risk tripping on a rock or hurting yourself when looking for the bathroom in the dark. This tool is essential for any avid camper.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 22. Dry Shampoo

    dry shampoo

    There will be few opportunities to take a true shower during your trip to Yosemite, so you’ll definitely want to invest in some good dry shampoo. After long days of hiking and camping outside, there are few things you can use to make you feel fresher than this!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 23. Hand & Foot Warmers

    Hand & Foot Warmers

    No one likes to have cold fingers and toes! These hand and feet warmers are one of our best discoveries (we almost wanted to keep them secret!) They stay warm for up to 10 hours, which can be a godsend in the Yosemite temps that can reach 30°F, below freezing. These pocket-sized warmers are a delight to put in your gloves, jacket compartments, or shoes.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 24. Luggage & Tent Locks

    luggage locks

    It’s wise to bring a couple of luggage locks to secure things at your campsite when you’re out exploring and hiking. We’ve actually had someone try to open our tent in the middle of the night! To prevent any peepers or sticky fingers from perusing through your things, use these locks to secure your suitcase, tent from the inside, lockers, or anything else you want to be sealed tight!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 25. Biodegradable Toilet Paper

    Biodegradable Toilet Paper

    Yosemite has a rule of ‘leave no trace,’ which means no waste can be left behind. You will need biodegradable toilet paper that will disintegrate. TP is a must, but additional options are a shovel to bury any waste (Yosemite states that buried waste must be 100-feet from water, camp, or trails and at least 6 inches underground). Or these disposable bags for when you have to go during long road trips or late at night when you don’t want to walk around the forest in the dark!

    View on Amazon.com

What to Wear at Yosemite

yosemite looking out of car Be sure to wear plenty of layers when heading to Yosemite, as you’ll want to be able to easily adapt to changing weather conditions.

You’ll want to wear clothing fit for hiking and being outdoors, such as hiking pants, hiking boots, and clothes made from quick dry or sweat wicking materials. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle and wear lots of sun protection!

What Should WOMEN Wear to Yosemite? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

hiking pant
hicking boot yose
crew neck yos
women short yos
addidas cap yos
Sunglasses yos
leging yos
soft jacket yos
swimbkni yos
flip flop yos
swim suit yos
fanel shirt yos
womenjeans yos

Women visiting Yosemite should be prepared with plenty of layers to be able to easily adapt to changing weather conditions. Comfortable, durable clothing will be best for long days of hiking and exploring. Keep it casual, as you’ll be in the national park the entire time!

What Should MEN Wear to Yosemite? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

man jeans yos
man shirt
cqr paint
man hat yos
man shirt yos
worout tshirt
men short
MEN CLOMBUS
men trunk yos
Sunglasses Overnight yos
man cap
sweat pant
fleece jacket

Men visiting Yosemite should wear plenty of layers to easily adapt to changing weather. You should be prepared with comfortable and durable clothing that can withstand long days of hiking and exploring. Be sure to bring some warmer layers, too, for cooler evenings.

Packing for the Seasons in Yosemite

You’ll want to dress for the season and prepare your trip accordingly before you head to Yosemite. The summer is the best time to visit the national park, but other seasons also have their charms.

  • WINTER - December, January, February

    Winter in Yosemite is cold, wet, and snowy. Hiking paths at higher elevations will be restricted during this time, so you’ll have less backpacking options available. Be sure to dress warmly and prepare for rain and snow during this time.

  • SPRING - March, April, May

    Spring weather in Yosemite can be very unpredictable, ranging from warm pleasant days to cold days with rain storms. Evenings are typically cool, so be prepared with plenty of layers if you plan to travel during this time of year.

  • SUMMER - June, July, August

    Summer in Yosemite tends to be warm and dry, though evenings can still be a bit chilly. This is the best time to visit the national park, as there will be less restrictions for hiking paths at higher altitudes. You may experience a rain storm or two, so be prepared for precipitation.

  • FALL - September, October, November

    Fall weather will still remain warm and pleasant for most of the season, though nighttime temperatures will begin to cool off significantly. Be prepared with plenty of layers to be able to easily adapt to changing weather conditions.

How to dress for different activities in Yosemite – (Click to expand)

Hiking - you’ll definitely be doing a lot of hiking in Yosemite, so be sure to dress for the season. Bring plenty of layers, comfortable hiking shoes, and lots of water to stay hydrated during this activity.

Camping - you’ll most likely be camping out during your trip to Yosemite, so bring plenty of warm layers for chilly evenings, and comfortable clothes for lounging around your campsite. Sweat wicking or water resistant clothing will be best. Don’t forget to bring crocs or sandals, too, to give your feet a chance to breathe when you’re not hiking or exploring.

What NOT to Bring to Yosemite

  • 1. DON’T PACK a regular towel

    A regular towel will only bog you down during your visit to Yosemite, so instead opt for a lightweight quick dry towel. This will dry incredibly fast and be ready to go whenever you are.

  • 2. DON’T BRING too much stuff

    The last thing you need is to be weighed down by an overstuffed backpack while you’re at Yosemite. Make your life easier by bringing a lighter pack filled only with what you need.

  • 3. DON’T TAKE expensive electronics or valuables

    You won’t have any need for expensive valuables and electronics during your trip, so leave those things at home. If something is truly essential, bring it, but keep it safely guarded!

  • 4. DON’T PACK fancy clothing

    You’ll be spending all of your time in Yosemite hiking and camping, so you won’t have any need to wear fancy clothing. If it’s something you’d be upset to have ruined by the elements, leave it behind.

  • 5. DON’T BRING uncomfortable shoes

    With all the hiking and exploring you’ll be doing during your trip, you won’t want to be wearing uncomfortable shoes. Make sure your hiking boots are well broken in before you go.

  • 6. DON’T TAKE heavy books

    If you plan to do some reading during your trip, opt for a lightweight kindle instead of bringing a ton of heavy books. You’ll be glad you brought less with you when you’ve got to carry everything on your back!

What clothing should I NOT wear to Yosemite? – (Click to expand)

You’ll want to avoid bringing clothing that is too fancy or that you would be upset if it got ruined. This is an outdoorsy camping trip, so bring clothes that you’ll be comfortable wearing outdoors over and over again. Avoid bringing valuable or expensive jewelry or electronics, as you won’t want to risk them getting lost, broken, or stolen.

FAQs for Going to Yosemite

  • 1. What are some main attractions in Yosemite?

    Some of the most popular natural attractions in Yosemite are the Yosemite Valley, the iconic Half Dome, the Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point, among many others.

  • 2. Is Yosemite safe?

    Yes, it is safe to visit Yosemite. That said, it is a large natural park, so you’ll need to have your wits about you and make sure to remain hydrated and avoid interacting with any dangerous wildlife you may encounter.

  • 3. Can you go camping at Yosemite National Park?

    Yes, however, there are specific designated areas where you are allowed to camp and you will not be permitted to camp outside of those locations.

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