Death Valley Packing List

Pack for extreme desert heat, vast distances, and zero shade

National Park · California Best time: November–March Beginner to Strenuous
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Death Valley National Park is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the US, with salt flats at 282 feet below sea level, towering dunes, and colorful badlands. Heat management is a matter of survival here. Use this packing guide as a starting point, then let PackList's AI personalize it based on your exact dates, activities, and gear preferences.

About Death Valley National Park Service

In this below-sea-level basin, steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes. Yet, each extreme has a striking contrast. Towering peaks are frosted with winter snow. Rare rainstorms bring vast fields of wildflowers. Lush oases harbor tiny fish and refuge for wildlife and humans. Despite its morbid name, a great diversity of life thrives in Death Valley.

Current Weather & Patterns

62°F — Clear (current forecast).

Current Park Alerts National Park Service

Gas Pumps at Panamint Springs Resort are Closed at Night Information

Gasoline is available at Panamint Springs Resort from 7am-9:30pm, daily. Gas is available at Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells 24hrs.

Essential Gear & Permits

Must-Have Essentials

  • Extreme water capacity: 4+ liters per person per day minimum
  • Electrolyte tablets (heat depletes sodium rapidly)
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+, lip balm, and wraparound sunglasses
  • Wide-brim sun hat
  • Full-coverage sun clothing
  • Extra water and food in your vehicle
  • Paper map (cell service is almost nonexistent)
  • First aid kit

What to Wear

Clothing & Footwear

  • Loose, light-colored, long-sleeve sun shirt
  • Lightweight UV-protective pants
  • Wide-brim hat with neck cover
  • Warm layer for cold winter nights and high elevations
  • Sturdy closed-toe shoes for salt flats and rocky terrain

Gear & Equipment

Backpacking & Camping Gear

  • Large-capacity hydration system plus backup jugs
  • Cooling towel and electrolyte drink mix
  • Sun umbrella for shade on open trails
  • Vehicle emergency kit (spare tire, coolant, extra water)
  • Satellite communicator for remote areas

Food & Nutrition

Food Planning

  • Heat-stable, salty snacks
  • Electrolyte-rich foods and drink mixes
  • No-cook meals (it's too hot to want to cook)
  • Far more water than feels necessary

Safety Tips for Death Valley

Summer temperatures exceed 120°F — avoid all low-elevation hiking after morning

Never hike in the heat of the day; many heat deaths occur here

Stay with your vehicle if it breaks down — it's easier to find than a person

Carry extra water for your car's radiator and yourself

Popular Activities

hikingphotographystargazingscenic drivingdune walking

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