Whether you visit the Smoky Mountains regularly, or you’re planning your first experience to a Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin, you probably have an idea of what your family will do while you’re here. The winter weather has arrived and the afternoons can be a bit cold, so here’s what you’ll want to pack for your vacation in the Smoky Mountains, so you can stay a little warmer this season:
1. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a key destination for every vacation to the area. Even if you don’t plan to do much hiking, there are a few things you should take with you when you go into the national park. These items will help you be prepared for all adventures in the park, including hiking trips, scenic drives, and family photos:
- If you plan to take pictures, you’ll want to dress warmly, in layers.
- Gloves or mittens and closed-toe shoes
- Plenty of bottles of water for the day
- It’s always safe to travel with a first aid kit, including matches or a fire starter.
- Light snacks
2. Visiting Outdoor Attractions, like Dollywood
Most families who vacation in the Smoky Mountains like to take a day to spend at Dollywood for the Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration. To keep warm while you’re in the park, or outside at any Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge attraction, here’s a few things to pack. These items will make sure you can fully enjoy your day at all the Smoky Mountain attractions without getting too cold:
- An extra jacket
- Warm gloves or mittens
- Ear warmers
- A little extra money for a cup or two of hot cocoa to keep you warm
3. Cooking in a Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge Cabin this Winter
Everyone likes to try their hand at a homemade southern dish while they’re in the Smokies, right? When you visit our Smoky Mountain cabin rentals, you will have access to a fully equipped kitchen with all of the basics that you’ll need for your vacation. Here’s a few things you may want to pack though in order to serve your family a delicious vacation meal:
- Paper plates and plastic tableware if you don’t want to do any dishes
- Casserole dish
- Items for s’mores, such as chocolate bars, graham crackers, marshmallows
- Roasting sticks for roasting marshmallows by a fire
- Packets of hot chocolate
4. Relaxing in Your Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge Cabin
It’s great to spend a day simply resting up and relaxing, getting away from the hustle and bustle of life at home. Our cabins are equipped with amazing amenities that your family are sure to love, from game rooms to amazing home theaters! If you want to spend a day away from the chilly weather, there is plenty of entertainment inside the cabin for the entire family! Here are a few comfort items people typically like to bring with them on their vacation in the Smoky Mountains:
- A new book, so you can sit by the fireplace and read
- A bathing suit for soothing in the hot tub
- Fuzzy socks, to keep your toes warm while you spend time in the cabin
- A good movie to watch with your family
Now that you know what you should pack for your winter vacation in the Smoky Mountains, you are ready for the trip! Check out all our Smoky Mountain cabins to find the perfect home away from home for your next adventure! We look forward to seeing you soon!
