Death Valley National Park, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Death Valley National Park, California, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Death Valley National Park, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Death Valley National Park
  2. Important essentials for Death Valley National Park
  3. Activities for Death Valley National Park
  4. Death Valley National Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Death Valley National Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Death Valley National Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Death Valley National Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Death Valley National Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Death Valley National Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Death Valley National Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Death Valley National Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Death Valley National Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Death Valley National Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Death Valley National Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Death Valley National Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Death Valley National Park, California, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Death Valley National Park, California, United States of America, the best time to go is March. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Death Valley National Park, California, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Death Valley National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Death Valley National Park, California, United States of America by month

January

January in this region is cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

If you vacation in Death Valley National Park during February, you might see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

If you vacation in Death Valley National Park during March, you might find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
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 Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

If you vacation in Death Valley National Park during April, you might see that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

If you visit Death Valley National Park during May, you will probably see that it is sizzling. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

If you vacation in Death Valley National Park during June, you will probably notice that it is sizzling. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. 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 things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July for Death Valley National Park is sweltering. Temperatures average in the 110s F (mid 40s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

Traveling to Death Valley National Park in August, you will notice that it can be excruciatingly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 110s F (mid 40s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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 Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold 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 be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

If you are traveling to Death Valley National Park in September, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (high 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

If you vacation in Death Valley National Park during October, you might notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

If you vacation in Death Valley National Park during November, you are likely to find that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

If you visit Death Valley National Park during December, you might find that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Death Valley National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Scotty's Castle, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you're planning to visit Darwin Falls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Death Valley National Park, California, United States of America

Death Valley National Park in California, United States of America is a vast desert wilderness that offers visitors a unique adventure. The park is characterized by dramatic landscapes including sand dunes, valleys, and mountain ranges. Visitors can explore ancient cultures, wildlife, and stunning vistas throughout the park. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Death Valley National Park:

1. Badwater Basin

Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America, sitting at 282 feet below sea level. This vast salt flat is an awe-inspiring sight and is one of the park's most popular attractions. The basin is located on the valley floor, and visitors can walk out onto the salt flats and take in the breathtaking views.

2. Zabriskie Point

Zabriskie Point is a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the park's badlands. The views from this point are especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset, when the sun casts a warm glow over the rock formations.

3. Dante's View

At an elevation of 5,475 feet, Dante's View offers visitors stunning views of the valley floor below. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The viewpoint is accessed via a winding road and is popular for stargazing at night.

4. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are located in the northern part of the park and cover over 14 square miles of desert. The dunes are constantly shifting and offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the desert landscape.

5. Artist's Drive

Artist's Drive is a scenic drive through a colorful rock canyon in the park. The drive is a one-way loop and offers visitors the chance to see unique formations, including the popular Artist's Palette.

6. Ubehebe Crater

Ubehebe Crater is a volcanic crater that is over half a mile across and 500 feet deep. The crater was formed over 2,000 years ago when magma rose to the surface and came into contact with groundwater. Visitors can hike around the crater's rim and experience the unique volcanic landscape.

7. Scotty's Castle

Scotty's Castle is a historic mansion located in the northern part of the park. The mansion was built in the 1920s and is a popular tourist attraction due to its unique architecture and the interesting story of its former owner, Scotty. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about its history.

Death Valley National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the desert landscape. Visitors can explore stunning vistas, hike through canyons and sand dunes, and learn about the park's rich history. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Death Valley National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.

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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