Oregon Packing List (23 Items You Might Forget)

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Oregon is more geographically diverse than most people realize, so first-time visitors may be a little confused when it comes to packing. 

Don’t worry — McKenna is an avid traveler who’s visited Oregon many times, and Chelsea has lived in the Pacific Northwest for over 15 years. Together, we’ll guide you to all the items you’ll really need on your trip.

This packing list covers everything you’ll need for rainy weather in Western Oregon, high desert adventures in Central and Eastern Oregon, plus some special items for coastal activities. It also includes clothing for every season, so you can stay comfortable while enjoying Oregon’s best sights and attractions.

So let’s get into it. Here’s everything to include on your Oregon packing list.

Oregon Packing Checklist

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of this packing list here!

Travel Umbrella

Visiting Western Oregon anytime from October to April? You’ll want to be prepared for the rain! Typically, you’ll experience consistent rainfall, but not big storms. A travel umbrella is a good way to be prepared for all those drizzly days. 
I love how compact the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is, and the fact that it’s windproof is another plus! There’s nothing worse than getting caught in the rain when it’s windy and having your umbrella turn inside out. This umbrella is designed to withstand that.

Hiking Poles

Hiking is a must in this state if you love the outdoors. There are tons of incredible Oregon hikes, but if any of those hikes involve steep climbs, a pair of trekking poles will make said climbs a little less exhausting.

These Trail Buddy Trekking Poles come with multiple accessories for all types of terrain, and can be easily disassembled or collapsed to fit into your hiking pack. I admit, I resisted using hiking poles for way too long. But after feeling how much pressure they took off my knees going uphill and downhill, I’ll never hike without them again.

Binoculars

Wildlife enthusiasts will be spoiled on a trip to Oregon. Head to the coast to see puffins or gray whales. Spot elusive black bears around the Cascades or venture into the remote Steens Mountain Wilderness to see the wild Kiger Mustangs. Bring binoculars so you won’t miss a thing.

You don’t need to spend a fortune for high-quality binoculars, and the Occer Compact Binoculars are an affordable option for travelers. These are small, so they pack well, and they’re lightweight and easy enough for kids to handle, too.

Bike Helmet

Oregon is consistently listed as one of the most bike-friendly states in the country. Many of its cities have bike-friendly infrastructure, especially Portland, Corvallis, Eugene, and even the small city of Ashland. Bringing a helmet is smart whether you plan to explore the cities via bike, or want to cycle on one of the state’s many scenic bikeways.

With the FEND Foldable Bike Helmet, you won’t have to worry about a helmet taking up valuable room in your suitcase. This one packs small enough that you can stow it in a day bag, and has important safety features like bright lights and adjustable straps.

Daypack

Plan to be out exploring all day? Bring a day pack with you so you won’t have to stop back at your hotel to drop things off or grab gear you forgot. 

The Osprey Daylite is a Travel Lemming favorite. This 13-liter backpack is the perfect size for carrying around travel essentials during the day without making you feel too bulky.

 

Power Bank

Between taking photos, recording videos, and checking maps, your phone’s battery will probably run down faster than you expect it to. There’s an easy solution to this: Simply have a power bank on hand to keep your phone and other devices charged.

Power banks like the Anker Portable Charger can give you that extra boost of battery so you can access offline hiking maps, driving directions, and more. This one is also slim and lightweight, and can charge multiple devices quickly.

Waterproof Phone Case

Planning to wander waterfall trails, take a dip in the Umpqua Hot Springs, or go swimming in Crater Lake? Keep your phone protected with a handy waterproof phone case. 

Using the ProCase Waterproof Phone Pouch will ensure your phone doesn’t encounter any water damage. Also, touch screen operations are still available through the transparent screen of this case, so you won’t have to take it in and out of the case constantly to use it.

Sunglasses

Summer is one of the best times to visit Oregon and yes, the summers are sunny and bright enough that you’ll want sunglasses. Honestly, you’ll probably want them in the winter, too — especially if you’re visiting snowy Mount Hood. In my opinion, polarized sunglasses are the way to go because they help reduce eye strain and glare.

The Sunski Polarized Sunglasses are my go-to pair of shades. They’re stylish, long-lasting, and the lenses can easily be replaced.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes can come in handy if you’re visiting Oregon for more than a few days. Use them to feel like a packing pro, especially if you get easily frustrated with a disorganized suitcase. 

The Well Traveled Packing Cubes are one of the Travel Lemming team’s favorites. This lightweight yet durable, 8-piece travel organizer can fit way more than you think and conveniently comes with a bag for laundry and your shoes.

Headlamp

Headlamps are essential for camping trips and safely making it back to the trailhead on sunset hikes. Adventurous (and non-claustrophobic) travelers will also appreciate them when going caving at the Oregon Caves National Monument in southern Oregon. 

I’ve used the Black Diamond Headlamp on a number of occasions and it’s always done exactly what I need it to. It provides both bright and dimmed light, and the battery power lasts for hours.

Quick Dry Towel

A microfiber towel is a solid item to bring for any occasions when you may get wet — waterfall or muddy forest hikes, taking a dip in the Pacific while you’re on the coast, or drying off after a soak in a hot spring. It’s also a practical item if you’re staying in a hostel or camping. 

The Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is hyper-absorbent, but it dries quickly so you won’t have to worry about stuffing a soggy towel back into your pack when you finish using it. It’s also super soft and squishes down small so it can fit in just about any bag you have.

First Aid Kit

Some of the best things to do in this state involve the outdoors — whether you’re windsurfing along the Hood River, rock climbing in Smith Rock, or backpacking along the coast. Be smart and stay safe by always bringing a first aid kit. You just never know what might happen. 

This All Purpose First Aid Kit includes nearly 300 first aid items, including gauzes, bandages, creams, and ointments, all of which will come in handy for unexpected cuts, scrapes, or burns.

Oregon Map

In the age of online maps, it may seem silly to bring a physical one. But if you’re exploring remote stretches of Eastern Oregon, a physical map is essential. In some areas, you may not have reliable Wi-Fi or cell service, meaning you could be caught in a pinch if you get lost without access to either.

The National Geographic Map of Oregon makes this a non-issue. The map is revised regularly. Along with an updated map, it includes additional helpful information like a calendar of events and a chart detailing driving distances between popular sites.

Travel Insurance

It never hurts to be extra prepared when traveling to a new place. I always purchase World Nomads Insurance just in case. This insurance company protects emergency overseas medical and dental, trip cancellation, and lost baggage, making it one of the best and most affordable in my opinion.

Other Oregon Essentials to Pack

• Toiletry bag
• Toiletries
• Glasses or contacts
• Contact solution
• Hand sanitizer
• Prescriptions and medications
• Laptop & charger
• E-Reader or physical books
• Neck Pillow
• Sleep mask
• Passport and/or ID
• Cozy travel blanket
• Reusable bags
• Reusable water bottle

Clothing to Pack for Oregon

Ask anyone what clothing to pack for Oregon, and they’ll probably tell you the same thing: bring layers. Layering is key in the Pacific Northwest, no matter the season. It’s especially important if you’re visiting multiple places throughout the state and planning a number of outdoor adventures.

Style-wise, you can plan to dress casually while here. Athletic wear is perfectly fine and there’s no pressure to dress up. More often than not, you’ll see locals rocking outdoorsy clothing, even when they’re not on the trails.

Your specific clothing items may change slightly depending on if you’re visiting western versus central or eastern Oregon. But the following items are a good idea to bring year-round:

Rain Jacket

There’s no way around it: A rain coat should absolutely be on your packing list, especially if you’re going to be in Western Oregon anytime from October through April. During the rainy season, you should expect persistent light rain.

The Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket is a great option that’s highly waterproof. It comes in women’s and men’s sizes and is made by a trusted Pacific Northwest brand. This jacket packs down to the perfect travel size so you can easily stow it away if there’s a quick break in the rain.

Hiking Boots

Unless you’re sticking to city exploration, a pair of hiking boots should be on your list. Wear them on hikes through state parks and national forests, along the coast, or while tackling mountain trails.

The Oboz Sawtooth X Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are perfect for visitors who prefer more foot and ankle support. The waterproof technology is a must when hiking through the mud or when it’s raining. They’re also available in men’s sizes.

Wool Socks

Oregon can get pretty chilly during the winter time, and feeling your feet go numb from the cold is one of the worst feelings (especially if they’re also wet from the rain). A pair of wool socks is the best way to prevent this.

I never do an overnight adventure without my Smartwool Classic Mountaineer Socks. These wool socks are some of the warmest on the market for everyday use, and they’re the perfect pajama socks to wear during cold nights on the Oregon coast. If you’re planning to do any camping, they’re a great thing to pack!

Hiking Pants

I personally own a pair of REI Trailmade Pants and could not recommend them enough. You don’t heat up in these lightweight pants, ideal for hiking in the summer and perfect for layering in the winter. 

Also available in a men’s option, The Trailmade pants are also water resistant, which is an ideal feature for hiking in the rainy state.

Fleece Jacket

Fleeces are a laying must in the Pacific Northwest, no matter which season you visit. The Columbia Fleece comes in both a men’s and women’s version, with plenty of colors to choose from for each. It’s super soft and affordable. It’s also lightweight enough to stow in your bag to bring with you anywhere.

Down Jacket

If you’re like me and you run cold, you will definitely want to bring a down jacket to Oregon, even in the summer. The nights can get chilly on the coast and in the high desert. 

This 650 Down Jacket will keep you warm whether you’re exploring snowy Mount Hood or wandering the streets of Portland. The price may be a little steep, but it just means the quality is high. This jacket is also great for layering with a fleece and comes in a men’s style, too.

Waterproof sandals

I’ve traveled and hiked all around the world in my Teva Tirra Sandals. A padded sole provides extra support and the waterproof feature makes hikers unstoppable in any terrain. The men’s Teva Terra Fi 5 sandal is a similar style with the same great features.

Sundress

Oregon summers can be hot and a sundress is an easy way to stay comfortable and mobile in the heat. The lightweight Mountain Hardwear Dynama Dress is not only multi-functional, but also stylish. The added shorts mean you won’t have to constantly worry about your dress’s state in windy weather and you can even hit the hiking trails in style.

Sun Hat

A reliable sun hat is an essential you don’t want to forget, especially since you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors in Oregon. The style of the Chaos Krystal Hat makes it versatile enough to wear both on hiking trails and in the cities.  For a men’s option, check out the Outdoor Research Sunbriolet Sun Hat.

Other Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories to Pack for Oregon

So what other clothing, shoes, and accessories should you pack for Oregon? Here is a quick clothing checklist: 

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Flip flops/shower sandals
• 2 hiking tops
• 2 long-sleeved shirts
• 1 light jacket
• 3-4 pairs of socks
• 3-4 pairs of underwear
• 1 baseball hat
• 1-2 dresses
• 1-2 button-up shirts
• 2-3 pairs of jeans or long pants
• 1-2 pairs of shorts
• 3-5 T-shirts

Oregon Packing Tips

Pack For a Variety of Weather Conditions

You will want to pack a varied wardrobe when visiting Oregon, especially from fall through spring. Expect rainy weather in Western Oregon during this time, and a chance of snow and frigid temperatures in Central and Eastern Oregon. Also, the Oregon coast generally has cooler summers, chillier winters, and gets a lot more rain than places further inland.

Don’t Forget the Rain Gear

You’ll need proper rain gear if you’re exploring west of the Cascades in the rainy season. For the most part, a rain jacket, travel umbrella, and waterproof shoes will more than suffice.

However, I’d recommend against bringing tall, heavy duty rain boots which can be hard to walk around in, especially while exploring the cities. They’re a bit overkill in addition to being impractical for daily wear, too. The rain in Western Oregon is persistent, but lighter than most people realize.

Bring Plastic Bags for Muddy/Wet Clothes

You’re almost guaranteed to have wet or muddy clothes if you go hiking in the rain or forget your rain jacket. Bring a plastic bag designated for muddy or wet shoes if you need to change outfits in a pinch.

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I hope this guide has helped you determine what should go on your Oregon packing list. Planning to spend some time in Oregon’s largest city? Up next, check out our guide to the best things to do in Portland!

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of this packing list here!

Editor’s Note: Chelsea Booker contributed to this list.