What to Pack For a Successful Fall Smoky Mountain Vacation

It’s almost time for you and your family to pack up the car and begin your relaxing fall Smoky Mountain vacation. You have already found the perfect Gatlinburg cabin rental for you all to stay in, and you have already checked out all the amazing discounts to popular Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions that are included with your rental. However, do you know what to should pack for a Smoky Mountain vacation?

(Also popular: Why Choose a Cabin For Your Smoky Mountain Vacation This Fall?)

For the Car

One of the best parts of a fall Smoky Mountain vacation is that it is really easy for most families to pack up the car and drive to the mountains. Not only does this cut way back on travel costs because you don’t have to buy separate plane tickets, but it also makes taking quick trips during the school year really easy.

That being said, what all should you and your family have with you in the car during the drive?

  • Cell phone with car charger
  • Directions
  • Road map
  • Hand-held video game systems for the kids
  • Portable DVD player in case you have a long drive
  • Headphones
  • Snacks

For a Rainy Day

Although we like to pretend that it never rains when we are on vacation, there is always the possibility. However, even if it does rain a little during your fall Smoky Mountain vacation, that doesn’t mean that you have to let it ruin your entire day. Here are a few items you can bring from home that are a great way to improve a dreary day in the Smokies:

  • Kids’ favorite board game
  • Deck of cards
  • Favorite movie
  • New book
  • Smoky Mountain themed puzzle
  • Bathing suit to enjoy your cabin’s hot tub

For Hiking

No matter what time of year you visit, hiking in the Smoky Mountains is always a good idea. Not only does spending the day exploring the trails give you and your family a chance to see a whole new side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but it is also a great way to sneak in a little exercise to your fall vacation in the Smoky Mountains.

However, before you hit the trails, be sure that you are prepared by including these items on your vacation packing list:

  • Backpack
  • Hiking trail map
  • Compass
  • Flashlight
  • Lighter
  • Sunscreen
  • First aid kit
  • Binoculars
  • Sunglasses
  • Hiking boots
  • Thick socks

For Cooking

At Great Outdoor Rentals, all of our Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg cabins come equipped with a fully-functioning kitchen. This includes an oven with stove top, refrigerator, dishwasher, and starter sets of pots and dishware. That being said, there are a few items you may want to bring from home:

  • Wine/bottle opener
  • Favorite serving dish
  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Non-stick pan
  • Cookie sheet

If you have any more questions about how to prepare for your family’s next trip to the Smokies, be sure to check out the Frequently Asked Smoky Mountain Vacation Questions page on our website. There you will find answers to most, if not all, your planning questions. However, if there are still a few things you need answers to, feel free to give us a call, or fill out the Great Outdoor Rentals contact form on our website.

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About Mal Alder

Mal Alder is a graduate of the University of Tennessee where she studied Creative Writing with a minor in Journalism and Electronic Media. Beyond writing, her interests include politics, new technology and anything involving the Smoky Mountains. When she's not at work she can be found at the dog park, a bookstore or a golf course, depending on the weather.