The Complete Dude Ranch Packing List

When it comes to planning a guest ranch vacation, it always helps to have a packing list at hand! There are so many important items that you don’t want to forget, so that’s why we’ve created the ultimate dude ranch vacation packing list. Grab your suitcase, and check off these ranch essentials. And, don’t forget your personalized New Mexico guest ranch itinerary before you hit the open road. Submit your preferred travel dates, activities, and interests and we will send you a personalized itinerary within the next 24 to 72 hours! Planning your vacation couldn’t be easier.

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Your Complete Dude Ranch Vacation Packing List

Sun Protection

Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch is a place where you and your family will make lifelong memories, so don’t let sunburn spoil those moments! If you want to make the most of your vacation, then sun protection is a must. Put these items to pack at the top of your list:

  • Sunscreen.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Lip balm with SPF protection.
  • Long-sleeve shirts. These will add an extra layer of sun protection for a day spent horseback riding and also protect against branches. Pack light colors for the summer months. 

Clothing

There are so many things to do on our ranch, so remember to dress for the occasion! You can make a splash in spring-fed creeks, enjoy a leisurely hike, horseback ride through Gila National Forest, or simply relax. Here are a few clothing items that will help you make the most of your trip.

  • Cowboy hat (with stampede string). Any wide brim hat is good for sun protection, but must be secured under your chin with a string on rides. 
  • Medium-weight jacket.
  • Heavy riding coat (spring and fall).
  • Layers (The Gila National Forest has a big temperature swing from daytime highs to nighttime lows, no matter the season).
  • Rain gear (we provide full length riding rain slickers, but bring your own jacket for other activities).
  • Helmet if you own one and wish to ride in it. We also have helmets and brimmers for sun protection for anyone who would like to use one. Helmets are required for children under the age of 13.
  • Riding boots or cowboy boots with a heel and smooth sole. This is required for riding. We do have some to lend if needed. Please ask about sizes.
  • Boot socks or tall socks that go as high as your boots.
  • Jeans. We recommend Wrangler Jeans. Because they don’t have the double sewn, inside leg seam, their design reduces skin chafing.
  • Padded bicycle shorts. These help prevent soreness.
  • Pantyhose. These can help prevent chafing.
  • Tennis shoes, hiking boots, or hiking shoes. (We explore many places on foot!)
  • Water shoes (not flip flops) for wading, swimming, and playing in the rocky creek! The creeks are warm because they are fed by warm springs, making them perfect for enjoying during most seasons!
  • Bathing Suit. There are a couple places in the warm spring fed creeks that are deep enough to get all wet! The weather is often warm enough April through October.
  • Riding gloves (for cold weather/personal preference)

Personal Items

We use our personal items every day, so it’s funny that they are the things we are most likely to forget! Remember these everyday items:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and other toiletries.
  • Any medication/prescriptions.
  • A personal first aid kit with band-aids and other essentials.
  • Phone charger and any chargers for other electronics!
  • If using a digital camera, don’t forget a memory card and extra batteries.
  • Stain remover pens for the clothes you love.
  • A laundry bag to keep your cabin tidy and prevent dirty clothes from piling up. We do not have laundry facilities at our ranch, so this will help you to keep your clean and used clothes separated.

What’s Provided, What Not to Bring, & Other Tips

  • Hairdryers are not provided, and the use of them is highly discouraged. We are off the grid, and they draw too much current. If you must use one, please use only when the generator is on from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • You are welcome to bring your own beer, wine, or liquor. We don’t carry a liquor license, so bring what you like.
  • Towels, linens, and bedding are provided.
  • We provide a plastic water bottle to carry when riding or hiking, but feel free to bring your own as well. We will go out all day sometimes and you will need more than one!
  • We have excellent quality tack that is comfortable for our guests to ride in and also fits our horses. Our saddles are mainly Tucker, Reinsman and Circle Y. (Our tack is what you will ride in during your stay at our ranch.)
  • Remember, there is no cell phone service at the ranch. You can give your family and friends the ranch phone number 575-772-5157 for emergency contact.
  • We do not offer Wi-Fi for guest use. This is your chance to disconnect and get a much needed digital detox!

Pack Your Bags for Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch

Now that you’re prepared with the ultimate dude ranch vacation packing list, there’s only one thing to check off your list of things to do, and that’s reserving your cabin at the best guest ranch in New Mexico! Comforting amenities, like three home-style meals, unlimited horseback riding, and family-friendly entertainment, are always included with your stay.

If you are ready to plan your getaway, remember your free personalized itinerary. We hope to host you soon at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch!