Preparing for the Trail: GFCD Recommended Packing List

The Great Florida Cattle Drive is more than an event — it’s a living piece of Florida history. To help ensure a safe, authentic, and enjoyable experience for everyone on the trail, participants are asked to prepare carefully and pack thoughtfully.

This guide outlines recommended gear, clothing, and supplies for riders and horses taking part in this primitive, historically inspired cattle drive.

Travel Light: Gear Limit & Packing Tips

Participants are limited to 60 pounds of personal gear and equipment. All gear will be transported in an open stock trailer, so items should be packed with weather protection in mind.

January weather in Florida can be unpredictable. Rain is always a possibility, and mornings can be cold while afternoons warm quickly. We strongly recommend packing items inside trash bags, Ziplock bags, or waterproof containers within your luggage to protect against moisture.

Please note:
This is primitive camping. There will be no electricity and no showers available at camp.

Honoring History Through Dress

The Great Florida Cattle Drive is designed to resemble an authentic Florida cattle drive from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Participants are encouraged to dress in period-correct clothing whenever possible to help preserve the historical atmosphere of the ride.

Layered clothing is essential, and rain protection is a must. Full-length saddle slickers are highly recommended, as they protect both the rider and tack.

Recommended Packing List

Clothing

• Period-correct long-sleeve shirts with collars and pants or western wear
  (No sleeveless shirts permitted)

• Undergarments and socks (bring extras)

• Sturdy riding boots or closed-toe shoes with a heel

• Warm coat or jacket

• Gloves

• Rain gear (avoid ponchos)

• Broad-brimmed hat for sun protection
  (Riding helmets with brims are acceptable; no ball caps)

• Comfortable closed-toe shoes for camp

Camping Gear

• Tent (please avoid large “cabin-style” tents)

• Ground tarp

• Warm sleeping bag

• Lightweight sleeping pad or air pad

• Small pillow

• Water bottle

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Small solar-chargeable battery pack (for phones or essential electronics)

• Solar shower bag

Personal Items

• Prescription medications

• Non-prescription medications (ibuprofen, allergy medicine, antacids)

• Sunscreen

• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)

• Powder (such as Gold Bond)

• Washrag and small towel

• Baby wipes (there are no showers in camp)

• Hand sanitizer

• Bar of soap

• Extra plastic bags for trash or laundry

• Small personal first aid kit (must fit in saddlebag)

• Pocket knife or multi-tool

Horse Supplies

• Saddle, bridle, pads, and required tack
  (Neutral colors preferred to maintain historical appearance)

• Spare reins or supplies for minor tack repairs

• Saddlebags

• Feed pan or feedbag

• Items for securing your horse (hobbles, picket stake and line, etc.)

⚠️ Small electric ribbon pens are allowed, but there will be no charging available, and the complete kit counts toward the 60-pound gear limit.

• Small first aid kit for your horse (must fit in saddlebag)

Clothing Resources

The following vendors are provided as references only for historically inspired clothing and accessories. These businesses are not affiliated with the Great Florida Cattle Drive.

• Wild West Mercantile – www.wwmerc.com

• Historical Emporium – https://www.historicalemporium.com/old-west.php

• River Junction Trade Co. – https://www.riverjunction.com/Old-West-Clothing-and-Accessories

Final Thoughts

Preparing properly helps ensure a safer, more enjoyable ride and allows everyone to fully experience the tradition, grit, and heritage of Florida’s early cattle drives. Thoughtful packing, weather-ready gear, and period-appropriate attire all contribute to making this event a true step back in time.

We look forward to seeing you on the trail.