Hot Springs Packing List: Plus 6 Essentials I Won’t Go Without
If you’ve never been to a wild hot spring, it’s time to plan one! Yes, they are just as magical as Pinterest makes you think and worth an early wake up and hike in. Whether you’d like to adventure solo, with a partner, or group of girlfriends, I’m here to give you some of my favorite must-haves for your epic hot spring adventure. Fill out the form below for a complete hot springs packing list and read on for my unique must-haves I won’t go without.
1. Lightweight Rubber Shoes
These are probably the most important items I too frequently overlook. Think a “Croc”-style shoe: something that’s lightweight, has breathable holes, is easy to slip on and off, and I like a heel strap for extra stability. Plus, the heel strap can be used to attach them to the outside of your backpack. My pair are from a gas station in Panama where I paid a total of $4 and they have lasted me over 8 years!
2. Packable Towel
It might go without saying that a towel is a great addition to a hot springs packing list. I mean, if you’re going to get wet, you’ll need to dry off. But just any old bathroom towel is too bulky and not fun to fit in your daypack. For a hot springs trip, you’ll need something lightweight, that dries quickly, and packs well. Enter the 21st century with a microfiber towel! They come in various sizes and you can definitely get away with a small one for a short hot springs visit. My personal favorite is the OSO Quick-Dry Towels: they come with beautiful artwork and are big enough to use for other adventures too.
3. Garbage or Wet Bag
Some choose to go fancy with a wet or dry bag, but I personally love throwing a standard garbage bag into my pack. This is where all my wet items go for the hike out. It’s lightweight and I don’t have to worry about sealing it incorrectly: just push the air out, seal it with a good twist, throw it in my pack, and I’m good to go!
4. Warm Hat
Hot spring season is usually when the weather is a little cooler than the dog days of summer. The draw of sitting in a warm pool when the weather is crispy outside just calls to us that time of year. Your head and hair might get a little wet and cold in the process, so be sure to bring a warm hat or headband to keep that body temperature happy.
5. Waterproof Pouch
Since you plan to soak in said hot spring, something worth thinking about is all the things that may get wet on your excursion. Consider how you’ll protect your phone, camera, keys, and other valuables safe from water damage. For this, you can use anything from waterproof cases to zip locks!
6. Tarp or Mat
Now this might be my favorite little secret item: a lightweight tarp or mat. Why? When you’re in the middle of changing outfits and getting in and out of the pool, the last thing you want to worry about is setting your things on soggy ground. A small tarp is lightweight and worth its weight in gold when you can just dump all your things on it without having to worry. Trust me, it’s a game-changer and I even keep one in my car at all times for everyday adventures. I guarantee your adventure compadres will be dazzled with envy if you bring one of these.
In Sum
The other items you pack will depend on how long your trek into the hot springs location is. Some are roadside while others are deep in the wild. A trip to a hot springs can be extra special, so if you can spare the weight and space, I’d encourage you to bring extra special items to indulge in. In the past, I’ve packed a stove to make fresh hot drinks and breakfast, a hammock, and a tasty dessert. A hot springs trip is meant to be experienced at a slower pace than other adventures: relax, enjoy, and SOAK it all in!
What are the essentials on your Hot Springs Packing List? Share in the comments below!
