Montana Summer Packing List • Travel Guides • Travel à la Mer

Summer in Montana is pure magic. Think fields of wildflowers, hikes to bright blue glacial lakes, and horseback rides through the backcountry. However, the vast temperature swings make packing for a summer trip to Montana a tricky affair. In the crisp early mornings, temperatures are often in the 40s before the blazing sun heats the afternoons into the 80s. It’s not uncommon for the mountains to see snow well into June. This Montana summer packing list is designed for female travelers looking to do everything from relaxing at a lodge, to hiking, to glacial lakes and exploring national parks!

So what’s the secret to successfully navigating Montana’s temperamental climate? One word. Layers. You can’t go wrong with layers of comfortable athletic clothes for outdoor activities, and jeans, sweaters, and a light jacket for cool evening dinners. Unless you’re attending a wedding, there’s no need to pack heels—go with hiking boots instead! And when considering accommodations, I highly recommend staying at a nice mountain lodge or ranch to maximize the western vibes. Most importantly, spend as much time as possible outside among the mountains, inhaling the cool alpine air and taking in the breathtaking views. From hiking the mountains to exploring iconic national parks, here is the perfect packing list for female travelers visiting Montana in the summer.

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Montana Summer Packing List — *Hiking shoes & warm layers*

Montana Summer Packing List Layers — *Lightweight layers for hot afternoons*

Clothes (Layers!)

Active & Hiking Wear

Shorts – I live in these biker shorts & athletic shorts from Amazon for all types of athletic activities (and as an avid runner, I can attest they hold up really well). The side pockets of the biker shorts are great for easy access to my phone will also keeping my hands free.
Long Pants – I pack the legging version (both full-length & cropped) of my beloved Amazon biker shorts for chilly early morning hikes. However, some prefer a looser fitting long pant for outdoor activities, like this top-rated quick-dry hiking jogger.
Tanks – Athletic tank tops are a great layering item. The Lulu Lemon Swiftly Tech Racerback Tank has long been a staple for me—great on its own and underneath a quarter-zip to the start the day.
Long sleeves – Again, the Lulu Lemon Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve reigns supreme as a long-sleeve athletic top.
Quarter-Zip – A good athletic quarter-zip is a must to keep you warm on chilly morning hikes. The Patagonia Micro Fleece and Helly-Hansen Half Zip are perfect layering pieces!
Raincoat – With everchanging weather forecasts, it’s always a good idea to pack a raincoat and keep it in your backpack. I like using my raincoat as a shell on chilly days.
Light Jacket – If the forecast looks particularly chilly (or you’re always cold), bring a down jacket to stay warm! A down puffer jacket, like this North Face Puffer, is a good option that is perfect for athletic endeavors. I also love the look of this FP Movement cozy fleece jacket.
Wool Hiking Socks – Wool socks are great for hiking because wool does not retain moisture like cotton does. These cushioned Smartwool Hiking Socks are perfect for exploring the mountains.

Mountain Chic (& Cozy)

Jeans (and jean shorts) – A staple for the mountains. When not in athletic wear, I’m usually in jeans. Levi’s are always a good jean option.
Sweaters – Sweaters are another essential for a summer mountain getaway. Pair a cute sweater with jeans for a delicious dinner or an evening sipping a cocktails around a firepit. I love an oversized Reformation Sweater.
Button Down – A versatile layering piece that can pull together any outfit.
T-Shirts (short & long sleeve) – Easy layering pieces to wear alone or under a jacket. I live in Skims t-shirts—specifically the Cotton Jersey Short Sleeve and Cotton Jersey Long Sleeve.
Vest – Another great layering piece.
Light Jacket – Plan for chilly mornings and evenings in the mountains. I love the Sézane Will Jacket for everything from summer in the mountains to safaris in South Africa. A jean jacket, like this soft Levi’s Jean Jacket, is another great option for the mountains.
Casual Dress – For a dressier vibe, bring a flowy maxi dress that pairs well with a sweater and jacket. This Revolve red midi dress would look great paired a sweater or jean jacket!

Shoes & Accessories

Shoes

Hiking Boots or Tennis Shoes –Whether you prefer hiking shoes for more support, or regular tennis shoes for lighter activities, a closed toe shoe for outdoor mountain activities is a definite must. I love these lightweight Merrell hiking shoes for hiking in the Rockies.
Water Shoes – A sturdy quick-drying sandal for wading into lakes and rivers is great if you plan on swimming or kayaking. These Tevas are my go-to adventure sandals. Pro tip: Leave these in the car when you go hiking so when you get back to your car, you can immediately ditch the hiking boots.
Cute Sandals – At the end of a long day of adventuring, the last thing I want to wear is shoes with a purpose. Pack a pair of cute & comfortable sandals to pair with a stylish dinner outfit.
Cowboy Boots – Optional, but on theme. If you’re staying at a ranch and plan to do a fair amount of horseback riding, cowboy boots can help you stay secure in the tack. Refer to the ranch if you’re contemplating boots for functional use. Ariat makes great cowboy boots that are both functional & decorative!

Accessories & Miscellaneous

Backpack – A backpack is necessary to carry snacks, layers, and all the misc. items when adventuring. If you plan on undertaking longer hikes or are carrying heavy items, I recommend using a backpack that has a chest and/or waist strap to better distribute the weight—like this Osprey Backpack. If you’re looking for a casual backpack, this chic neoprene Dange Dover backpack is super easy to clean.
Water Bottle – A sizeable water bottle is indispensable for exploring the mountains in any season. The high elevation can lead to dehydration faster. I always carry a water bottle to ensure I’m drinking enough water. This top-rated water bottle comes in a several sizes and so many color options.
Bear Spray – It’s vital to carry bear spray in the mountains. However, know that you cannot fly with bear spray. If you’re doing any hiking, plan on getting bear spray upon arrival. Most outdoor stores in the mountains sell bear spray and some places will offer bear spray rentals.
Bug Spray – Mosquitos love the mountains too. This deet-free bug spray is my favorite because it works and actually smells pleasant.
Sunscreen – UV rays are more intense at higher elevations so don’t skip the body sunscreen when adventuring outdoors! This La Roche-Posay sunscreen is my go-to body sunscreen (it comes in a travel-friendly 3oz size) and Elta MD is everyday face sunscreen.
Electrolyte Packets – To help combat the high elevation and increased physical activity, I always bring electrolyte packets to the mountains. *I am not a medical professional and this is not medical advice. I am simply sharing my personal experience
Binoculars – If you’re keen on spotting wildlife, especially in Yellowstone National Park, bring binoculars for better viewing.
Sunglasses – The sun is strong. I always pack my Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses and a more feminine pair of sunglasses for options.
Hat – Ballcap and/or a stylish ranch hat. I always use a ballcap when hiking to protect my face from the sun. A cute rancher’s hat is by no means a must-pack, but is a fun accessory.
Amateur Radio – Serious hikers should consider an amateur radio. You will lose cell service on most hikes and it’s always good to have a means to contact emergency services in case something happens. Better safe than sorry!