A feast for audiophiles, Bare Essentials' deluxe packaging is a multi-course repast for the eyes. The disc is bound in a 5 x 5 volume with a heavy, book-weight cover, which is illustrated with a close-up image of Rowan's c1937 Gibson L-5 guitar case. The inside front and back covers illustrate the plush interior of the case.

The title page of the 20-page booklet is an image of the spruce and abalone inlay and other details of the Dillon guitar heard on the record. The booklet includes personal photos and color images of the landscapes that have inspired Rowan's music. Entries for each song include his comments about its origins and inspiration, as well as notations about the particular instrument, the tuning, the kind of strings used, and other details of special interest to guitarists.