Everything You Need to Watch the April 8 Solar Eclipse
This year’s total solar eclipse—the last to pass over North America until 2044—is coming soon, and if you ‘re heading into the path of the April 8 total solar eclipse , you’ll want to come prepared with the appropriate gear. Here’s everything you need to take with you on eclipse day.
Solar Eclipse Glasses
If you only have one thing with you on April 8th, it should be solar eclipse glasses, which are essential for viewing the eclipse safely . This goes without saying, but never, ever look directly at the sun without proper eye protection, as this can cause permanent damage to your retina. Please note that there are many cheap counterfeit glasses on the market, so look for glasses approved by the International Organization for Standardization, which labels certified products with the “ISO” seal. And if you plan to take a telescope, camera or binoculars with you, make sure you have the right solar filters .
Nice folding chair
Depending on your viewing location, you may be outside waiting for long periods of time—too long to be comfortable standing, sitting unsupported, or even hanging out in your car. Even organized viewing events are unlikely to have enough seating for every visitor. In addition to a folding chair, you may also want a pillow and blanket to lay out on the ground or to keep your passengers cozy on the round trip. Bonus points if you have an air mattress or camping mat.
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Portable Camping Chair $31.49
Food and water
Then again, you may be waiting (or sitting in traffic) for most of the day, so you’ll be glad to have snacks and drinks readily available. It’s also possible that restaurants and convenience stores along the route to totality will have long lines and even run out of food, so don’t expect to be able to buy anything along the way. At a minimum, have a jug of water per person in your group.
Recommended Products
Don’t miss out on the celestial event of the century by trying to see the eclipse without these essentials:
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ISO Approved Solar Eclipse Glasses $22.95 (5 pcs)
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Portable Camping Chair $31.49
Personal items
You should also have a few outdoor and travel essentials for overall comfort and hygiene, especially if you’re heading to or passing through a more remote area:
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sunscreen
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Broad-brim
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Sunglasses (before and after)
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Insect repellent
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Toilet paper
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Cleaning wipes
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Hand sanitizer
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Medicines (prescription and pain)
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First aid kit
Cash
Of course, cash isn’t usually needed in 2024, but it’s better to be safe than sorry if the card machines don’t work or you have to pay for parking.
Phone and battery
Obviously, you’ll have your phone, but you should also have an external power source and charging cord with you in case your battery dies. If you’re traveling to an area where cell service may be spotty, consider downloading offline maps. You can also take a pretty decent photo of the eclipse with your smartphone .
And bring some fun
Be prepared to have a lot of downtime during the day, during which you may want to do something that doesn’t require cellular service or Wi-Fi. Download TV shows and movies in advance, pack a book, take your Steam Deck with you, or take with you any other entertainment you might need. This is especially true if you’re bringing kids who aren’t yet as excited about the eclipse as we are.