Last month, I published a travel guide for Shark Valley in Everglades National Park that covered when to visit, what to do, and tips to make the most of your trip. That guide included all the information you need for an enjoyable trip to Florida’s wetlands, other than one vital component: the items you should bring. I thought the topic warranted its own post, so today, I’m detailing what to pack for Everglades National Park.
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What to Pack for Everglades National Park
Sunscreen, Sunglasses and Hat
The Florida sun is no joke. Since the state lies so close to the equator, it receives stronger sunlight than the rest of the United States. To protect yourself from the sun, I recommend packing enough sunscreen to reapply every few hours. In addition, you should bring both sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes and shade your face.
Bug Spray
The Everglades are notorious for mosquitoes, particularly in Flamingo, the southernmost headquarters of the national park. Since nothing dampens the day quite like incessant insect bites, trust me when I say that you’ll want to have bug spray on hand. I personally prefer these bug repellent bracelets. They worked well during our trip to Everglades National Park and every other time I’ve used them.
Cash and Credit Card
Although it’s not advertised online, many entrances to Everglades National Park only accept credit cards. If you plan to purchase your pass at the gate, be sure to have a credit card handy. However, because technology often fails, you may need cash as well. During our visit in February, the park’s electronic card reader system was down, and had we not had cash as well, we would not have been able to enter the park. To be safe, I recommend bringing both a credit card and $30 cash. Alternatively, you can buy your pass online in advance.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Whether you’re biking, kayaking, or leisurely exploring Everglades National Park, you’ll want comfortable shoes. I wore my New Balance x J. Crew sneakers because they’re both stylish and supportive, but any tennis shoes of your choice will work.
Food and Water
Food is not sold in the vast majority of Everglades National Park, so be sure to pack lunch, water, and any snacks you want. To keep your water cold throughout the day, I recommended using an insulated water bottle. My personal favorite: this Swell bottle that keeps drinks cold for up to 54 hours and hot for up to 26.
Binoculars
When thinking about what to pack for Everglades National Park, binoculars may not be the first item that comes to mind. However, hear me out: Even if you’re not typically the birdwatching type (I’m certainly not!), you will enjoy seeing some of the 360 species of birds that live in the Florida wetlands. And you’ll appreciate having binoculars on hand to get a closer look.
Mask
At the time of publishing, the National Park Service (NPS) is still requiring that masks be worn in all NPS buildings and facilities. Masks are also required on NPS-managed lands when physical distancing cannot be maintained, including narrow or busy trails, overlooks, and historic homes. When we visited Everglades National Park, I fastened my favorite mask (which is 100% silk and by far my most comfortable face covering) to a mask chain so I could quickly and easily slip it on and off.
Rain Gear
If you’re visiting during the wet season, which runs from mid-May to November, make sure to pack rain gear. We were fortunate to have clear skies during our trip to Shark Valley, but the tram tour would have been miserable in the rain without proper gear.
Camera
Although this probably goes without saying, you’re going to want a camera to snap photos when visiting Everglades National Park! I’m partial to my DSLR because it allows me to zoom in for the best shots of the wildlife, but your iPhone camera will suffice, too!
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