Zion Packing List:
12 Essentials Your Family Needs in the Summer
So you’re planning an epic family adventure to Zion National Park and need the a complete packing list? You’ve come to the right place.
Zion is definitely a breathtaking journey your family will never forget. You’ll find yourself in awe as you travel through its narrow canyons and look up at it’s towering cliffs. You’re truly in for an unforgettable time!
However, as with any with a outdoor trip, it is paramount to be fully-prepare for this family vacation destination, especially if you’re planning on visiting during hot summer months.
In this post, you’ll learn about 12 essential items that families must pack to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, allowing you fully soak in all the wonders and beauty of Zion, all while creating beautiful, lasting, family memories.
Welcome to your packing guide for an epic summer adventure ins Zion National Park
What is Zion National Park?
Zion National Park is a dream, outdoor destination that has become a popular destination for nature-loving families from all parts of the country.
It is nestled in the heart of southern Utah, and is an enchanting national park perfect families seeking a getaway filled with outdoor excitement and natural beauty.
Zion boasts of towering red cliffs that appear to scrape the sky and the sparkling Virgin river that winds its way through majestic canyons. It’s truly a huge favorite among outdoor enthusiasts since it offers opportunities for so many thrilling activities, along with tranquil sights that will leave anyone breathless.
Some popular things to do in Zion include hiking along gorgeous paths, splashing in cool streams, biking on scenic drives, camping, horseback riding, and observing the incredible wildlife. Its no wonder why so many people flock to this magical park.
Be well-prepared for a summer trip to Zion
As you and your family gear up for a summer adventure to Zion National Park, the importance of a well-planned packing list should not be taken lightly.
Having a thorough packing list can ensure a smooth, safe, and truly enjoyable family trip.
And not only will a well-curated list save you from the stress of not having essential items, but it can also ensure that you have everything you need so that you can make the most out of your time at this well-loved National Park.
No wasting time, frantically making last-minute purchases from overpriced souvenir shops. That means you and your family will have more time exploring and having fun!
From packing appropriate clothing for the hot summer weather to packing sturdy shoes for all those breath-taking hiking trails, a complete packing list is important so you can really focus on creating wonderful memories while still keeping the entire family comfortable and safe.
With that said, here are 12 must-have essentials you won’t want to forget to put on on your summer Zion packing list.
Summer Clothing Essentials
1) Loose-fitting and breathable clothing
During the hot summer months in Zion National Park, temperatures can get pretty hot. This is why making sure your family wears light, breathable clothing is absolutely crucial when visiting the park during June, July, and August.
Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics typically allow for better airflow which will keep you and your kids more comfortable throughout your summer adventure at Zion.
Wearing these types of fabrics will also allow your body to regulate its body temperature better, prevent overheating, and in turn allow your family to truly soak in the stunning landscapes and enjoy any thrilling activities you have planned.
Types of breathable material include:
- merino wool
- polyester
- mesh
- coolmax
- nylon
- bamboo
- TENCEL lyocell
Materials to avoid wearing in hot weather:
- cotton
- denim
- fleece
- silk
- heavy wool
- rayon
- vinyl/plastic
2) Light fleece long sleeve top
Even though summer temperatures at Zion National Park can get quite hot, I highly recommend adding some type of light, fleece top that has long sleeves to your Zion packing list.
It may sound a little weird to be wearing long sleeves in hot weather, but here are a couple of really good reasons why to bring this item along with you.
Indoor activities
Since it gets pretty hot in Zion during the summer months, indoor attractions inside the park and stores in Springdale (the town just outside of Zion) will be airconditioned.
Having a light fleece jacket on hand allows you to stay comfortable when you and your family decide to visit indoor spaces like the Zion visitors center, museums, souvenir shops, and restaurants
Cooler mornings and evenings
At Zion, the morning and evening temperatures can be significantly cooler than they would be mid-day. For this reason, having a long-sleeve fleece would be super helpful in keeping you and your family warm until the summer sun starts to heat things up.
A light fleece will do a nice job keeping your family comfortable during cooler times of the day without being too big and bulky to keep in your day pack when you don’t need it.
3) Swimwear
As mentioned earlier, summers in Zion National Park can get quite hot. This is why having swimwear on your Zion packing list is really important.
When you’re in the park, wading around in the Virgin River and small swimming hold can be a great break from the Utah heat. (Just always remember be aware of park rules, regulations, and flash flood forecasts when participating in water-based activities)
Also, most hotels around Zion National Park have swimming pools, so if you are planning on staying in a hotel close to the park, you’ll definitely want a couple of swim suits so you can take a nice, cool dip after a long day in the park.
4) Sun protection gear
To help further protect your family from the sun, having proper sun protection gear is so important. Things like sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are all a must.
Thing to look for when shopping for a sun hat.
- Wide brim: Having a wide brim will give your face and neck shade from the sun
- UPF rating: An Ultraviolet Protection Rating of 50+ is the best, most reliable way to protect from ultraviolet.
- Material: Just like clothing, having a breathable and light material will make your hat more comfortable
Things to look for when shopping for sunglasses.
- UV protection: Good sunglasses should offer 100% UV protection
- Comfortable fit: Having a comfortable fit will ensure that you will be able to wear your glasses for long periods of time
5) Sturdy hiking shoes
Proper footwear is so important with any outdoor family adventure, so adding a sturdy pair of hiking shoes to your Zion packing list would help make your time at the park more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.
Here are somethings to consider then shopping for hiking shoes:
- Comfort: As will all shoes, comfort is keep to preventing things like foot fatigue, soreness, and blisters.
- Ankle support: The terrain in Zion is often times quite uneven. A shoe with good ankle support can help prevent ankle injuries.
- Grip and traction: The right hiking shoes can provide your family with good grip to prevent slips and slides.
- Breathability: Look for shoes with breathable materials that’ll keep feel cool in hotter weather
6) Comfortable, waterproof sandals
Another must-have item to add to your Zion packing list are comfortable, waterproof sandals. While sandals might always not be the best when going on nature hikes, there are definitely some advantages to packing sandals with you on your Zion adventure.
Advantages to packing comfortable, waterproof sandals to Zion National park:
- With Zion’s high, summer temperatures, sandals can help your feel stay nice and cool.
- Sandals are much easier to slip on that hiking boots, which make them the perfect foot wear for walking around the hotel, swimming pools, and towns near the park.
- Waterproof sandals can make wading in shallow, rocky rivers much more comfortable since the sturdy sole will provide your feet some protection.
- They’re lightweight and take up very little room in your luggage.
In this complete guide, we’ll address some for the most commonly asked questions and concerns that first-timers have about Zion.
Day Pack Essentials
7) Light, day packs
Having a light, day pack when visiting Zion National Park with kids will allow you to stay fully-prepared and comfortable during your day-long visits to the park.
Having a daypack will also give you hands-free convenience , which is is really important when hiking and exploring with kids.
Your day pack will allow you to carry the following, must-have items:
- Extra clothing and layers
- Snacks and hydration
- First aid kits
- Sun protection
- Souvenirs
Things to look for when shopping for a day pack:
- Breathable material: As with clothing, you will want breathable material of your pack to help keep you cool during your visit.
- Comfortable shoulder straps: You’ll be wearing your pack all day, so comfortable and supportive straps are a must.
- Hip belt and chest strap: A pack that has a hip belt and chest strap will help make carrying easier on your body
- Pockets: A pack with easily-to-reach pockets will help you stay organized, making things quick and easy to find.
- Light-weight: This is preferable as you do not want to add any extra, unnecessary weight on your back.
- Durability: Investing in a durable pack is a good idea since your pack will go through a lot on your trip. It needs to be tough!
- Size and capacity: Packs come in various sizes based on liters. Consider what you’ll be carrying in your pack when shopping.
8) Extra cell phone battery pack
While there isn’t a lot of cell service in the middle of nature, while you’re exploring Zion National Park, you will likely need your phone a lot to help your family navigate the park (with downloaded maps) and capture tons of epic, family photos.
With all that cell-phone use, it will be very likely that you will need to recharge your device and one point in your trip or another.
Having an extra battery pack or two can ensure that your cell phones stay powered. This way you can stay safe and connected throughout the day without worrying about completely draining your battery.
9) Insulated, water bottles
Water bottles and/or hydrations packs should absolutely be on your family’s Zion packing list. In hot summer months, it will be extremely important for your family to stay well hydrated throughout your time at the park, especially if you plan on doing a ton of hiking and other outdoor activities.
And while it’s true that you can easily buy bottled water at a store before heading into the park, there are still a couple of really important reasons why this essential needs to be on your Zion packing list.
Insulated bottles keep liquids cold
There is nothing more refreshing that gulping down ice-old water on a hot day. Having your own, insulated water bottles can assure that your family have refreshing water readily.
Insulated bottles reduce plastic waste
Using your own water bottles or hydration helps reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles, which, in turn, helps in nature conservation efforts. Plus, Zion National Park encourages visitor to practice a Leave-No-Trace mentality and using your own refillable water bottle aligns perfectly with that philosophy.
10) Dry bags
Dry bags are waterproof bags or pouches that keep your belongings dry and protected from water and moisture.
These bags come in various sizes and designs, ranging from small pouches to larger bags, so you can easily get the size that’s perfect for your family’s specific needs.
They can be really helpful on family trips especially if you’re planning on doing any water-related activities while in Zion National Park, like hiking The Narrows.
Some things to consider when looking for dry bags:
- waterproof closure: Make sure your dry bag has a roll-top closure that get secured in place with buckles.
- floatation: Having a dry bag that floats is great in case your pack accidentally falls in the water.
- visibility: Having a bright-colored dry bag makes them much easier to find in the water.
12) First aid kits
Another essential item to add to your Zion packing list is a first aid kit.
A first aid kit is essential as it can allow you provide on-the0-spot care to your family during your outdoor adventures.
And while there are park rangers that can help in providing first aid, having your own kit will allow you to immediately care for any cuts and scrapes your family might experience during your day at the park.
Your basic first aid kit should include the following basics:
- a variety of adhesive bandages
- gauze
- sting-relief wipes
- hand sanitizer
- antibiotic ointment
- allergy relief
- asprin or ibuprofen
- antacids
- splinter remover
- scissors
- tape
Tips and Tricks for Exploring Zion with Kids
Be sure to check safety guidelines and precautions before going in to the park
Zion National Park provides guests with vital information on safety precautions, so always check the park’s website for the most up-to-date guidelines
Practice a leave-no-trace mentality
Remain flexible
As a parent, you probably already that life with kids can be quite unpredictable at times. This is especially so when you’re out in nature.
With this said, plan to have a general plan of what you’d like to do during your time in Zion, but also keep a flexible mindset. I’ll make your time far more enjoyable when you can just go with the flow.
Visit the restroom before starting your activity
Have snacks handy all the time.
Nothing ruins a good time like hungry, cranky kiddos and parents. Regularly eating snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and apple sauce pouches can satisfy empty bellies and drastically improve moods.
Try out the Junior Ranger Program at Zion
Arrive to the park early
What must-know tip for any family visiting Zion in the summer is to arrive to the park early. Arriving early will allow you to beat the crowds, find better parking, get on the shuttles with minimal waiting, and enjoy the park before the mid-day heat sets in.
Bring a carrier for smaller children
Most of the hiking trails at Zion National Park are unpaved and uneven. For this reason, toting smaller kids around in a carrier would be much more suitable than a stroller.
Look into getting the America the Beautiful Pass
If you plan on visiting multiple national parks in a year, it might be a good idea to invest in the America the Beautiful Pass, which will give your family unlimited park entrances for one price. You can find out more about the America the Beautiful Pass by clicking here.
Take lots of breaks
In Conclusion
Having the right gear is vital to a safe and memorable family trip to Zion.
Having a well-planning packing list is super important when taking a family trip to Zion National Park during the hot summer months.
From breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes, to roomy day packs and essential sun protection gear, every item on your packing list will play an important role in creating a stress-free, safe, and enjoyable trip for your entire family.
As you begin preparing for your adventure to Zion with your loved ones, remember that preparation is key during hot summer months.
By packing wisely and thoughtfully, you’ll be able to create lasting memories, with your family as you immerse yourselves in the beauty of mother nature, all while assuring that everyone remains safe.
So grab your day packs, fill your water bottles, put on your hiking gear, and get ready for a summer adventure filled with the joy of exploring Zion National Park.
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