Top 20 Packing List for Cumberland Island, GA
We have compiled a list of suggested items you might need for your next trip to Cumberland Island, Georgia. For either a day trip or a trip overnight or longer, this packing list has the special items you will need for your trip. This remote island is pack-in and pack-out with no trash cans or trash pick up on the island. There is ferry or boat access only. Read more detailed information about Cumberland Island at GransOnTheGo.com.
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Essential Things to Pack
Day Pack
When visiting Cumberland Island, you will want to keep your gear dry in case of rain. This lightweight day pack will do the job while providing a dry shoe area
for an extra pair in case of wet feet. The Venture Pal products have proven sturdy and trustworthy on my adventures.
Our suggestion: Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Backpack with Wet Pocket
Waterproof Hiking Shoes
These women’s waterproof, lightweight hikers will keep you dry and provide maximum support for your visit to the island.
Our suggestion: Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Sunscreen
You will want to have reef-safe sunscreen when visiting Cumberland Island. Sea turtles use the island as a regular nesting ground, as well as many different
species of animals. Make sure not to use a sunscreen with chemicals to animals who call the island home.
Our suggestion: Alba Botanica Green Tea Hawaiian SPF 45 Sunscreen
Bug Spray
This four-star rated heavy-duty bug repellent will keep the bugs away while keeping the animals on the island safe as well.
Our suggestion: Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin
Combined Bug Spray and Sunscreen
And if you’re into saving time, you’ll just want to apply both sunscreen and bug spray at the same time. This is also reef-safe for animals.
Our suggestion: Badger – Sunscreen All Natural Insect Repellent Cream Water Resistant Anti-Bug 34 SPF
Backpacking Camp Stove
If you decide to spend the night on Cumberland Island, you will need a lightweight camp stove for your backpack.
Our suggestion: Coleman Gas Stove | Portable Bottletop Propane Camp Stove with Adjustable Burner
Collapsible Water Bottle
For all your travels, be prepared with a collapsible water bottle that takes up minimal room.
Our suggestion: Collapsible Silicone Water Bottles – Sports Camping Canteen 20 Oz
Mess Kit
This 17-pc mess kit rates 4.5 stars on Amazon and will provide you with everything you need for cooking on Cumberland Island.
Our suggestion: Gold Armour 17Pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit Backpacking Gear & Hiking Outdoors Bug Out Bag Cooking Equipment Cookset
Flashlight
The tactical flashlight is the perfect companion for Cumberland Island trips. Water-resistant and shockproof, lightweight with a pocket clip, it will be your trusted companion.
Our suggestion: GearLight M3 LED Tactical Flashlight [2 PACK] with Belt Clip, Batteries Included – Zoomable, 3 Modes, Water Resistant, Small Mini Light
Compass
This compass to attach to your jacket will have you traveling in the right direction.
Our suggestion: MiniComp II – Mini Orienteering Compass with Rotating Bezel
Additional items you might need
Some extra and handy items you may want to bring along with you on your visit.
Biodegradeable Wipes
Our suggestion: Combat Wipes ACTIVE Outdoor Wet Wipes
All-weather Notebook
Our suggestion: Rite in the Rain Weatherproof Top-Spiral Notebook
All-weather Pencil
Our suggestion: Rite in the Rain All-Weather Mechanical Pencil
All-weather Hat
Columbia is a trusted brand and will accompany you on many of your adventures.
Our suggestion: Columbia Unisex Bora Bora II Booney Hat
Sleeping Bag
This lightweight backpacker’s sleeping bag will keep you warm and dry for your Cumberland Island camping trip.
Our suggestion: Outdoorsman Lab Sleeping Bag | Lightweight Backpacking & Camping Sleeping Bag for Adults & Kids
Travel Pillow
This self-inflating pillow will be your companion for all your travels, not just for backpacking.
Our suggestion: TETON Sports ComfortLite Self-Inflating Pillow
Snacks
Peanut Butter Packs
Our suggestion: Justin’s Classic Peanut Butter Squeeze Packs, Only Two Ingredients, Gluten-free, Non-GMO, Responsibly Sourced, 10 Pack
Waffle Snacks
Our suggestion: Honey Stinger Gluten Free Waffle Variety Sampler Pack
Quest Nutrition Bars
Our suggestion: Quest Nutrition Ultimate Variety Pack, High Protein, Low Carb, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Keto Friendly
Backpacking Meals
Our suggestion: Peak Refuel | Freeze Dried Backpacking and Camping Food | Amazing Taste | High Protein | Quick Prep | Lightweight
Helpful Information for Travel to Cumberland Island
- Schedule your ferry & camping reservations in advance.
- Arrive 1 hour before your scheduled ferry departure time.
- Bring food, drinks, sunscreen, insect repellant, and wear comfortable walking shoes for an enjoyable visit.
- There are no shops, stores, or other amenities on the island.
- Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fee park. You will pay your entry fees at the mainland visitor center when you check in for the ferry.
- There are several places to refill water bottles on the south end of the island so bring a bottle that is refillable.
- Take a look at the map and get oriented to distances between places.
- Some areas are private residences. Please respect and posted signs.
- Traveling the island is on foot or by bike. Roads are not paved and can be bumpy.