Catskills, New York, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Catskills, New York, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Catskills, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Catskills
- Important essentials for Catskills
- Activities for Catskills
- Catskills in January: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in February: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in March: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in April: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in May: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in June: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in July: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in August: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in September: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in October: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in November: weather and what to pack
- Catskills in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Catskills, New York, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Catskills, New York, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Catskills, New York, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Catskills, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Catskills, New York, United States of America by month
January
January in Catskills is frosty and snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Pajamas
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteLip balm
The best option: this
Sweaters
Fleece for under jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Catskills, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.Ski accessories
Catskills has some excellent ski areas If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
In February, Catskills is very cold and snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). During your visit, you can expect extremely heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Catskills, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Lip balm
The best choice: this one
Extreme cold weather gloves
Sweaters
Pajamas
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteCoveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Fleece for under jacket
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Catskills, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.Ski accessories
Catskills has some good skiing If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Catskills is cold and snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Gloves
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy jacket
Sweaters
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
thisHeavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our choice: this
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Catskills, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.Ski accessories
Catskills has some excellent ski areas If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you vacation in Catskills during April, you might notice that it can be chilly and snowy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to snow ().
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Catskills, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential in this type of weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.Ski accessories
Catskills has some great ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
May in Catskills is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
June in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you go to Catskills in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
August in Catskills is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
September in Catskills is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
In October, Catskills can be chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). During your visit, you can expect a dusting of snow. This is also a rainy time for Catskills, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November is cold and snowy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows (several inches of snow).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy jacket
Gloves
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this one
Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Sweaters
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisWaterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Catskills, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is something you need here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Catskills has some great skiing If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
In December, Catskills is frosty and snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). During your visit, you can expect heavy snowfall. This is also a rainy time for Catskills, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Fleece for under jacket
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme cold weather gloves
Sweaters
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Pajamas
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Catskills, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.Ski accessories
Catskills has some excellent ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Catskills. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to North-South Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
What to do in Catskills, New York, United States of America
The Catskill Mountains of New York are a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From sprawling state parks to quaint towns, there is plenty to see and do in the Catskills. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the region:
1. Kaaterskill Falls: Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New York, cascading down over two stages for a total of 260 feet. Located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, the hike to the falls is just as breathtaking as the falls themselves. It's a perfect spot for a day hike, picnic, or a photo op.
2. North-South Lake: North-South Lake is the biggest and most popular state park in the Catskills. It boasts numerous hiking trails, camping sites, and swimming areas. The views from the top of North Mountain are particularly stunning. The park is also home to numerous wildlife species such as coyotes, black bears, and bald eagles.
3. Woodstock: The town of Woodstock is famous for its music festival in 1969 but has since become a creative hub for art and culture. Explore the unique shops, galleries, and restaurants on Tinker Street or visit the Woodstock Playhouse for live performances.
4. Hunter Mountain: Hunter Mountain is a winter playground for skiers and snowboarders with over 50 trails and six terrain parks. During the summer months, the mountain transforms into an adventure park featuring ziplining, treetop courses, and scenic chairlift rides.
5. Opus 40: Opus 40 is a unique outdoor sculpture park created by Harvey Fite. It features a sprawling network of stone walls, ramps, and sculptures over six acres. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine garden and marvel at the artist's ingenuity.
6. Thomas Cole National Historic Site: Thomas Cole is considered the founder of the Hudson River School of art, and his home in Catskill has been converted into a museum dedicated to his work. The site features galleries, gardens, and walking tours that offer a glimpse into the life and art of this seminal American artist.
7. Catskill Animal Sanctuary: The Catskill Animal Sanctuary is an educational farm that rescues and rehabilitates animals from factory farms and other abusive situations. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and interact with the animals such as cows, pigs, turkeys, and even llamas.
The Catskills are a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, and it's no surprise that they have been a popular destination for generations of tourists. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, the region has something for everyone.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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