The difference between a great rental day and a miserable one is often what you remembered to bring — or forgot. Most of these items weigh almost nothing and take 5 minutes to pack. Here's the master packing list, organized by rental type.
Every rental: the universal list
- Valid driver's license or government ID
- Phone (charged, in a case) + car charger for the drive
- Cash or card for fuel if fuel policy is "return full"
- Water — at least 1 liter per person per half-day, more in heat
- Snacks for full-day trips
- First aid kit (compact belt or pack kit — $15 at any outdoor store)
- Sunscreen SPF 30+ (waterproof for water activities)
- Sunglasses with UV protection and retention strap
ATV and UTV rentals
- Clothing: Long pants (not shorts — trail debris, heat from exhaust), long-sleeve shirt or light jacket, closed-toe shoes or boots
- Protective gear: Gloves (prevents blisters and hand fatigue on long rides), goggles or glasses (dust is real), helmet if not included in the rental
- On-trail kit: Trail map (download offline before you lose cell service), basic tools if you know how to use them, zip ties and duct tape (solve 80% of trail emergencies)
- Communication: A charged phone is not enough in remote areas — download an offline GPS app (Gaia GPS, onX Offroad) before you go
Jet ski and watercraft rentals
- Swimwear (rash guard recommended for sun protection)
- Water shoes or secure sandals (flip-flops fall off and are a hazard)
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag ($10–$20 — your phone will get wet on a jet ski)
- Sunscreen that's water-resistant (reef-safe if in coastal areas)
- Change of dry clothes for after
- Towel
Kayak and paddleboard rentals
- Dry bag for your valuables, keys, and any gear that can't get wet
- Water shoes with heel strap (for launching and landing)
- Hat with a brim (sun protection while on the water is often underestimated)
- Bug spray for marsh or river paddling
- Long-sleeve sun shirt for multi-hour paddles in open sun
Snowmobile rentals
- Base layer (moisture-wicking, not cotton) + insulating mid-layer + waterproof outer shell
- Insulated waterproof gloves or mittens
- Neck gaiter or balaclava
- Wool or synthetic socks (two pairs if it's below 20°F)
- Insulated, waterproof boots (pac boots or insulated snowmobile boots)
- Hand warmers (chemical or electric) — luxury but worth it below 10°F
- Trail permit if required by your state (verify with the owner)