What to Pack When You Visit The Smokies

Welcome!

Welcome to the Smokies. One of the best places to vacation in the world. (We are obviously prejudiced.) But, there truly is something for everyone: adventures, shopping and eating are all here for types of personalities. Knowing what to pack for the time of year you are planning to visit is a must. As they say here in Tennessee, give it 5 minutes, the weather will change. And depending on where you will be spending your time, in the mountains or at Dollywood, that can change what you need. Throw a stay at a cabin into the mix and there are even more things you may want to consider bringing with you. This packing guide can help you make sure you have just what you need for your Smoky Mountain getaway.

Spring

We love spring in the Smokies!
The sunshine and cool breezes, the wildflowers, the young wildlife, the promise of summer!

No matter what your plans – hiking, walking, shopping, sightseeing, eating out, taking a tour, visiting Dollywood – you’ll need some of the same things in your suitcase.

Layers are always good any time of the year just with minor changes per season.

The weather in the spring can be unpredictable. It can change drastically year-round, but especially in early spring—when it can be warm and sunny, then suddenly become cold and snowy. Afternoon rainstorms are very common— April’s average rainfall is 4 inches, and there are typically 10 days of precipitation each month of the season.

A rain jacket and layers are musts.

The weather in the spring can be unpredictable. It can change drastically year-round, but especially in early spring—when it can be warm and sunny, then suddenly become cold and snowy. Afternoon rainstorms are very common— April’s average rainfall is 4 inches, and there are typically 10 days of precipitation each month of the season.

It can get warm enough and sunny enough to want sunscreen and sunglasses. It can be chilly enough to want a warm coat and boots and a hat. Whether you plan to go hiking or not, waterproof boots are a great idea so is a small backpack for your day trips.

What kinds of things will you see on a hike in the spring? Wildflowers and wildlife for sure! The trees are growing fresh leaves and flowers. You might want to pack your antihistamines to keep the sneezing at bay.

Summer

Summer in the Smokies can be hot. Expect sunny days with the occasional afternoon shower that cools things off.

You know what that means you’ll want to pack: light rain jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, light clothing. Don’t forget a water bottle to stay hydrated and a small backpack for hikes or day trips into town or along a scenic driving route.

There are swimming holes and water adventures – kayaking, water slides, Dollywood’s Splash Country and cabins with swimming pools – don’t forget your swimsuit!

Fall

Oh autumn, what colors do you bring!
Fall in the Smokies is a special experience, as the days turn cooler, and the leaves turn to spectacular colors. It is indeed a sight to behold.

According to the National Park Service, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park usually experiences an autumn leaf season of several weeks as fall colors travel down the mountain sides from high elevation to low.

Daytime highs are usually in the 70s and 80s during September, falling to the 50s and 60s in early November. The first frosts often occur in late September. By November, the lows are usually near freezing. This is the driest period of the year with only occasional rain showers.

As you can see, you might need to make a little more room in your suitcase for a variety of temperatures. A rain jacket just in case; layers of clothing instead of bulk are always a great idea; sunscreen and sunglasses in September for sure; hat, gloves and coat for November. You still want to pack a swimsuit for any hot tubbing! We hot tub on covered porches year-round in the Smokies.

If you’re going hiking, in any season, you’ll want the following: a backpack, hiking shoes; a first-aid kit, bear spray; a flashlight or headlamp; plenty of water; a trail map; compass; storm whistle, money and ID; a pocketknife; high-energy snacks; waterproof matches; extra socks and shoes. Don’t forget your phone!

Winter

Winter in the Smokies can be fickle so watch the weather forecasts. Days can be sunny with high temperatures of 65° or snowy with highs in the 20s. In the lower elevations, snows of 1" or more occur rather infrequently - usually only a few times each winter. Typically this snow melts within a few hours of falling, according to the National Park Service.

At higher elevations, the climate is significantly cooler than in the surrounding lowlands and the mountain peaks receive much more snow. At nearly a mile high, Newfound Gap (elevation 5,046') receives an average of 69 inches of snow during the winter season. When winter precipitation is falling however, travel conditions can quickly become very hazardous in the park. Before visiting the park in winter, please call (865) 436-1200 for road closure and weather information.

Like all the other seasons, layers are how you should think and pack. If you’re hiking, consider thermal underwear, and hats and gloves that don’t retain moisture. Winter socks and boots are a must even if you aren’t planning to hike.

 Speaking of winter, let’s talk about staying in a cabin during these chilly months.

Check the weather before you go. If it snows, sleets or freezing rains, you might get stuck in your cabin for a day or two. Snowplow Service is scarce to non-existent in the Smoky Mountains and our topography creates extra driving challenges.  Roads may become snow-covered quickly and stay snow-covered for a couple of days.  

Let’s make sure you have everything you need before you go – water and food, medications. Gas up your car before you drive up the mountain.

Most APG cabins have gas fireplaces so you won’t need wood but always check the amenities list to verify. But, don’t rely on fireplaces as a significant source of heat. Pack extra blankets.

If there is a storm coming, make sure you are prepared to get stuck on the mountain in your cabin – this can be fun if you are prepared!

Ensure you have a well-stocked emergency kit with: food, water, warm clothing, necessary medications, a first-aid kit, flashlights with extra batteries, a battery-powered radio. The power might go out and the roads might become impassable, that’s ok, make it fun! Games and a good attitude go a long way!

Hit the grocery before you head up the mountain and make sure you have snacks and food and treats to keep you entertained and comfortable. Make sure you have water (for drinking and cooking) and your favorite beverages.

For your car, check your tire tread before heading up the mountain; consider snow chains.

Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle including: a scraper, blanket, jumper cables, and extra windshield fluid

Ok so that’s winter – usually that’s extreme winter. Let’s talk about a regular weather stay in a Smoky Mountains cabin!

While all American Patriot Getaways cabins have basically stocked kitchens with pots, pans, utensils, glasses and so on, if you are planning to do a lot of cooking, you might want to bring some items with you to complete your homemade meals.

Will you be grilling? Bring charcoal unless it states it has a gas grill. If your grill runs out of gas, Guest Services will be happy to bring you a re-fill. However, always check the gas grill as soon as you arrive to ensure it is working properly as busy seasons and traffic may mean our runners might need more time to get to you.

Are you planning on breakfast, lunch and dinner at your cabin? Think about what you use daily and pack those items: salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, dried herbs, olive oil.

Do you like your condiments? Soy sauce, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, hot sauce?

Planning to make pancakes – you’ll need to bring all the ingredients – flour, baking soda, baking powder, vanilla or just your favorite pancake mix. Maybe you like an electric griddle for many of your meals – bring it along.

Do you like a cup of tea instead of or in addition to coffee?  You might want to pack a tea kettle.

You can always call us to ask about specific items for your specific cabin! For the most part, these items are supplied based on the homeowner’s preference. Toiletries such as shampoo & conditioner are usually not provided.

You are more than welcome to request additional items and if we have them on hand, and we are happy to provide them.

Ready to book a cabin and get started on your getaway?

Find a cabin near all the fun in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, whether you are looking for something for you, your family, your friends, American Patriot Getaways has a cabin for you.

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Let us help plan your trip to the Smokies with these useful vacation guides! Insider tips to help you plan the perfect Smoky Mountain vacation.

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