Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Gateway National Recreation Area, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

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

When to go to Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gateway National Recreation Area, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America by month

January

January in Gateway National Recreation Area is pretty cool. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) to high 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 20s F (single digits below 0 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 Gateway National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Save money 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. Take care to get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February here can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gateway National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March here is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gateway National Recreation Area. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April for Gateway National Recreation Area can be chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gateway National Recreation Area. 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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. Make sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you go to Gateway National Recreation Area in May, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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 Gateway National Recreation Area. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice 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. Be careful to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Gateway National Recreation Area in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gateway National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, 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.

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. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Gateway National Recreation Area is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage 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 Gateway National Recreation Area. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Most 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.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Gateway National Recreation Area is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, 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 Gateway National Recreation Area. 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. Be careful to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in this region is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gateway National Recreation Area. 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 always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

Traveling to Gateway National Recreation Area in October, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gateway National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Gateway National Recreation Area is pretty cool. 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
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gateway National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice 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. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December is brisk. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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 Gateway National Recreation Area. 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 pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Jacob Riis Park Visitor Contact Station, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Gateway National Recreation Area, New Jersey, United States of America

Gateway National Recreation Area is a stunning collection of natural and historic landmarks dotted along the coast of New Jersey. The area is home to lush meadows, pristine beaches, historic forts, and maritime forests. Its proximity to New York City makes it a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Gateway National Recreation Area.

1. Sandy Hook Lighthouse

The Sandy Hook Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States, dating back to 1764. The lighthouse offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Raritan Bay. Visitors can climb the 95 steps to the top and discover the history of the building and its role in maritime trade.

2. Fort Hancock

Fort Hancock was constructed in the late 1800s and played a significant role in coastal defense during World War II. The site features numerous historic buildings, including barracks, officer's quarters, and a parade field. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort and learn about the military history of the area.

3. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a vast area of wetlands, salt marshes, and islands. It is home to over 330 bird species, making it a must-visit destination for birdwatchers. Visitors can hike around the trails, kayak through the marshes, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the New York City skyline.

4. Jacob Riis Park Beach

Jacob Riis Park Beach is a popular destination for beachgoers, surfers, and families. The beach boasts miles of white sand, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The park also offers a wide range of activities, including beach volleyball, picnicking, and cycling.

5. Floyd Bennett Field

Floyd Bennett Field was the first municipal airport in New York City and served as a critical airfield during World War II. Today, the field is home to numerous activities, including camping, fishing, kayaking, and cycling. Visitors can also check out the historic aircraft at the Aviator Sports and Events Center.

Conclusion

Gateway National Recreation Area is an excellent vacation destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and everyone in between. From historic forts to picturesque beaches, there is something for everyone in this stunning area along the New Jersey coastline.

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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