Los Angeles: Packing

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Packing

What You'll Need in L.A.

Although casual dressing is a hallmark of the California lifestyle, the best restaurants and nightspots sometimes require a jacket and tie in the evening, and women usually wear something dressier than regulation sightseeing garb. If you're going to the trendier bars or clubs, you'll need a suitably trendy outfit.

The most important rule to bear in mind in packing for a southern California vacation is to prepare for temperature changes. There can be significant temperature differences between inland areas and the shore, and temperatures can drop substantially at night. Clothes that can be layered are your best insurance.

Always bring sunscreen. Even if you're not planning on sunbathing per se, you can get burned quickly just being outdoors. If you'll be hitting the beach or a pool, pack a bathing suit, large towels, and flip-flops or slides.

Don't forget your bathing suit and a beach-friendly top layer like a zip-front sweatshirt, plus a plastic bag to stash them in should you need to pack them while they're still damp. If you're going anywhere near sand: bring a casual pair of shoes you can easily slide on and off.

Be sure you take comfortable walking shoes. People may say that nobody walks in L.A., but you will spend plenty of time on your feet.