With the summer season in full swing, we’re getting lots of questions about what to pack for your upcoming adventure. We’ve spent countless hours exploring the Rangeley region, so we’re excited to share our insider tips and a few personal anecdotes to make sure you’re fully prepared for your Rangeley escape.

The hatchback of a car with luggage in Rangeley, Maine.

Layering is Key: Embrace the Maine “Four Seasons in a Day”

If there's one thing we’ve learned about Maine weather, it's that it can be a bit unpredictable. You might wake up to a cool, crisp morning, bask in the warm sunshine by midday, and then find yourself reaching for a fleece as the sun dips below the mountains. That’s why layering is your best friend!

Start with a Base: Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking tops and bottoms for those active days. We love breathable fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends.

Add Warmth: Even in summer, bring along a cozy sweater or fleece jacket. A vest is always a good idea, too, as it provides warmth without being too bulky.
Don't Forget a Raincoat: A waterproof outer layer is essential, even if the forecast looks sunny. We’ve had our fair share of unexpected showers while out hiking or kayaking, we learned this lesson pretty quickly!

Footwear for Every Adventure:

From forest trails to lakeside docks, Rangeley offers a variety of terrains to explore. Here’s what we recommend packing to keep your feet happy:

Hiking Boots or Trail Runners: If you're planning to hit the trails, sturdy footwear with good ankle support is a must. Chris swears by his trusty hiking boots, while I prefer the flexibility of trail runners.
Water Shoes or Sandals: These are perfect for days on the beach or exploring rocky shorelines. We always pack a pair for wading into the lake or relaxing by the campfire.
Casual Shoes: Don't forget a pair of comfortable sneakers or sandals for strolling around town or enjoying a meal at one of Rangeley's many delicious restaurants. You won’t want to miss walking along Main Street, Rangeley.

Fun in the Water (and On It!):

Rangeley Lake is the heart and soul of the region, so be sure to pack your favorite water gear:

Swimsuit: Whether you prefer a one-piece or a bikini, a swimsuit is a must-have for those lake swims.

Towel: A quick-drying microfiber towel is ideal for packing light and minimizing dampness. If you’re enjoying the lake from one of our cabins, we’ve provided some lake towels for you!
Kayak or Canoe (Optional): If you own one, bring it along! If not, many local outfitters offer rentals; check out Rangeley Adventure Co.
Life Jacket: Safety first! Always wear a life jacket when you're out on the water.
Fishing Gear: If you’re an angler, you’ll definitely want to pack your rod and tackle. Chris never leaves home without his fly fishing gear!

Sun & Bug Protection: Stay Safe and Comfortable

The Maine sun can be surprisingly strong, even in the summer. Protect yourself with:

Sunscreen: We always pack broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) and reapply frequently.
Sunglasses: Polarized lenses are great for reducing glare on the water, and a wide-brimmed hat will help shade your face and neck.
Insect Repellent: Depending on the time of year, you might encounter mosquitoes and black flies. We recommend packing an effective insect repellent with DEET or picaridin. (Pro tip: We keep a bottle in each of our cabins, just in case!)

Embrace the Cozy Cabin Vibes:

Evenings in Rangeley are meant for relaxation. Here's what we pack to make the most of our cabin time:

Comfortable Clothes: Pack cozy pajamas, sweatpants, and your favorite t-shirts or sweatshirts.
Books & Games: We always bring a few books or magazines for our downtime. In our cabins, you’ll find a fun selection of board games and a deck of cards.

Gear Up for Adventure:

We’d be remiss if we didn’t take a moment to mention one of our favorite adventure stores when prepping for our adventures. If you're heading to Rangeley from the Portland area, don't miss the chance to stop at the L.L.Bean flagship store in Freeport. It's a Maine institution, and they have everything you could possibly need for your outdoor adventures. We love spending hours wandering through the store, reminiscing about past adventures, and planning for future ones. Got a question? We have always found their incredible staff to be more than happy to offer advice and recommendations.

A Few More Essentials:

Camera or Phone: Be prepared to capture those breathtaking views and memory-making moments. The photos will never do it justice, we know, we’ve tried, but at least you’ll have something to look back on and smile long after you’ve traveled back home.
Snacks & Drinks: Stock up on your favorite trail snacks and drinks to stay fueled during your adventures. Nuts, Junkless granola bars, and dried fruits are some of our favorites.
First-Aid Kit: It's always wise to be prepared for minor cuts, scrapes, or insect bites. We provide kits in our cabins, but if you’re smart like Chris, you will take a smaller travel kit with you on every adventure.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Rangeley gets very dark at night. This makes for incredible stargazing, but sometimes, you still need a little flashlight to light your way.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated out there!

A woman in hiking clothes enjoying a view of Rangeley Lake, Maine.

And Don't Forget...

A Sense of Adventure: Rangeley is a place to embrace the great outdoors and try new things.
An Open Mind: Be ready to be surprised by the beauty and warmth of the Rangeley community.

With this list in hand (and a little extra room in your suitcase for souvenirs), you'll be ready for an unforgettable Rangeley experience. Happy packing!

Ready for your Rangeley adventure? We can't wait to welcome you!