What to Pack for Los Angeles

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Wondering what to pack for Los Angeles? Here’s a packing list to help get you ready for your next trip to SoCal.

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Sunglasses

In L.A., your sunnies say a lot about you—they’re the first thing everyone sees. So consider investing in a designer pair before heading to L.A.

Sunscreen

Angelenos are all about what’s eco-friendly, so you may as well join the crowd and protect the Earth while protecting your skin, too. Bring at least SPF 30 or higher.

Shorts and T-Shirts

Bring sets of shorts and tees that you’d be comfortable strolling a museum in, or that seem fitting for a day at a theme park.

At Least One Hat

Whether you prefer a baseball cap or a floppy sun-blocking thing, definitely include a hat on your list of what to pack for L.A.

Bathing Suit

At the beach or at the pool, everyone will be wearing a bikini or board shorts, and their best cover-up, too.

Hiking Boots

You may not reach for your hiking boots first when thinking through what to pack for Los Angeles, but it’s a good idea to add them to your packing list. L.A. has hundreds of miles of beautiful trails and you’ll want to be properly equipped. We recommend the Keen brand for their extreme comfort, durability, and style.

Flip-Flops and Flats

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L.A.’s not a walking town, but if you’re planning on exploring a museum or tromping around a theme park, comfortable flats or flip-flops are an essential item to pack for your L.A. trip.

Dry Shampoo

In L.A., you’re OK walking around with “I just woke up” hair. But spray a bit of dry shampoo in to make it look—and smell—better. A great addition to anyone’s packing list for Los Angeles.

Your Makeup Bag and Hair-Styling Tools

Angelenos are remarkably well-groomed, especially at night. The tiny but powerful Bio Ionic Power Diva hair dryer is a good investment for any world traveler, anyhow. And the Bareminerals cosmetics line embodies that dewy, natural look that’s perpetually popular in Los Angeles.

Maxi Dress

L.A. is the land of boho chic, so if you’re pondering what to pack for Los Angeles and have a flowy maxi dress at your disposal, throw it on in your suitcase.

Water Bottle

Water bottles are as much an accessory in L.A. as designer handbags. Make sure yours is cute, and always full of filtered water to ward off dehydration under the hot California sun.

Trim Clothes for Men

L.A. men stay dapper by avoiding baggy looseness. Stick with close-cropped button-ups, slim-cut tees, and slim-fit shirts.

And don’t forget to save some room in your suitcase for your L.A. shopping finds.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• 10 Best Cheap Hotels in Los Angeles
• 10 Best Los Angeles Beach Hotels
• 10 Best Los Angeles Luxury Hotels
• 10 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles
• 10 Popular Los Angeles Restaurants for Celebrity Sightings
• 10 Best Cheap Eats in Los Angeles
• 9 Fun Things To Do in Los Angeles
• 10 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles
• 9 Must-See Los Angeles Attractions
• What to Wear in Los Angeles

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– Original reporting by Avital Andrews

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