Guest post by Harry Mariano.

Planning a multi-day adventure in Death Valley? While the desert terrain may look intriguing, it requires serious preparation to spend an extended amount of time here. No matter where you hike – but especially in a place as extreme as Death Valley – your gear and equipment can make the difference between a thrilling trip and a more unpleasant ordeal.

To help you make the most of your trip, here are the essential items you’ll want to pack.

Water, food and cooking items

It goes without saying that the park can get extremely hot – summer temperatures often reach around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Death Valley is called Death Valley for a reason, and you don’t want to be stuck without water in this vast expanse of desert terrain. Therefore, make sure you have an ample supply – it’s recommended that you plan for several litres per day.

Likewise, food is a necessity, and you’ll need to make sure you’re consuming nutritious meals to sustain your energy. Pack high-protein snacks, meals, and equipment to cook or prepare them if needed. It’s also a good idea to include waste bags and utensils if you plan to cook.

Shelter supplies

A multi-day hike means finding somewhere to stay overnight. A specialised tent or other shelter is essential, and it should both keep you cool during the heat of the day and warm at night – despite what you may think, the desert can get very cold when the sun goes down. Make sure you also have a good quality sleeping bag and sleeping pad. 

This Original Travel guide shares some of the park’s best campgrounds, with entrance fees included so you can budget for your trip. While straying off the beaten path may feel like an adventure, it’s best to stick to designated campgrounds for your personal safety – and to protect the landscape around you.

Climate-appropriate clothing

It can be tricky to plan outfits that are both cool enough for the daytime and warm enough for nighttime – as well as being comfortable and appropriate for hiking. In addition to everyday clothing items, it’s a good idea to bring layers and accessories such as:

• Wicking base layer and insulating mid layer
• Outer shell/wind jacket
• Broken-in, comfortable hiking shoes and socks
• A wide-brimmed hat and a beanie
• High-quality sunglasses with full UV protection

Don’t forget a good backpack that can carry everything you need. It should be durable and waterproof, to keep your belongings safe no matter the weather.

Navigation and emergency gear

While it’s unlikely that you’ll find yourself in an emergency situation, it’s always best to be prepared for the unexpected. Particularly in a place as harsh as Death Valley, where you may find yourself miles away from help should you need it, it’s important to have the essentials to hand.

Bring a map and a compass, and consider a GPS device – it can be easy to get lost, particularly on backcountry routes which can be remote and tricky to navigate. You should also always carry a first aid kit, a torch with batteries, and basic repair tools. Above all else, always let somebody you trust know where you are – even if that just means sharing a general plan before you leave and keeping in touch each day.

Once you’ve got the basics taken care of, all that’s left is to plan your route and enjoy the park. If in doubt, always pack extra and stick to established routes – there’s so many stunning sights to see, and you don’t have to venture off into the unknown to have a wonderful time.

Sand dunes at Mesquite Flats