Back in 2017, Brad and I drove down to Oregon with some friends for the Great American Eclipse. It was such a fun experience (despite the 5 hour drive that turned into a 13 hour drive home afterwards). Since this total solar eclipse crossed the continental US from west to east, it was a unique experience for the entire country to experience.
Another total solar eclipse is happening April 8, 2024; this one isn’t within driving distance so I’m not sure we’ll be able to see it, but I’m still crossing my fingers that I can make it happen.
Before the Total Solar Eclipse on August 21, 2017, I had originally created this post with things that I thought we might need for the viewing experience. Now that I’ve actually experienced the eclipse, I updated this post with items that we definitely used, and some others that I wish we had along for the trip.
Essentials For The Total Solar Eclipse
I've bought this 10-pack a couple times - both for the total eclipse in 2017 and also the "ring of fire" eclipse in 2023.
If you're viewing the eclipse with kids, get them some smaller sized glasses to protect their eyes.
Make sure that all solar glasses are properly certified! These plastic ones are a bit more heavy duty than the classic cardboard ones.
This book is aimed at age 4-8. It features maps, diagrams, activities, etc to get kids ready for the eclipse.
Protect your phone camera while taking photos or videos of the eclipse.
Safely look the sun up close with these sunoculars that are properly filtered to protect your eyes.
A larger version of the mini sunoculars to safely view the eclipse up-close.
These viewers protect the eyes, offer a map of the eclipse, and also have 2x magnification.
If you're bringing a telescope or DSLR to the eclipse, use this filter to protect the internal workings of your scope or camera.
Bring some snacks! Totality only lasts a few minutes, but there is lots of time hanging out before and after when snacks are essential.
You're probably going to use your phone a lot (between GPS to get where you need to be, killing time before/after Totality, and taking pictures/video). Be prepared with extra battery life.
Just because the sun is hidden for a few minutes doesn't mean that the UV risk is lower that day!
Don't foget to hydrate!
Many viewing locations are people's backyards or fields. Bring some comfortable seating for yourself.
The number one thing to pack for your trip to the Total Solar Eclipse? Patience! A lot of people want to view this special event, and it is a very narrow band of the country where it is viewable. Consider adding some additional travel days on either side of April 8th to avoid traveling on the extra busy days.
Kathy E. says
Great list! Yes, we plan on traveling to Missouri to watch it. We’ve already had trouble finding accommodations down there, so it will be a busy place! Good thing it will happen mid-day, so we can travel a little ways and still get there in time for viewing. Thanks for doing the shopping research!
Phyrra says
I need a pair of those glasses!
Brooke @ Blushing Noir says
I love when there’s an eclipse! The last one that came around it was too cloudy to see =( I hope we can get a peek this time!
Chelsea says
Whaaaat, so cool! I had no idea you need actual glasses to be able to see the whole thing!
Cris of Kiss My Tulle says
Thank you for the book suggestion! I’ve been trying to explain the eclipse to my little girl and not having much success.
Camille Gabel says
What a great idea! I’m sad we won’t be in the zone to see it because – SCHOOL. Bleh!
Carly Anderson says
that book looks adorable!
Ashley says
SO many awesome ideas! I want all of them, haha ;)
Andrea Bai says
This is an amazing idea! I can’t wait to watch it this year. I have to get the book for the kids.
Christa says
I want to be prepared now. What a great idea!