What To Pack For California – Ultimate Packing List
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What To Pack For California – California is a very diverse state with wide range of activities, landscapes and experiences. Rightfully known as the Golden State, California offers fabulous sights which include beaches, mountains, lakes, trails and national parks in abundance. Its almost sunny in California throughout the year with few days seeing rains too during winters. Californian winters are not very cold. However, temperatures vary from north to south, so be sure to check the weather before packing your essentials.
We have included all the essentials for your California packing list below. These include accessories, gadgets, clothing and skin care items that you should carry with yourselves.
What To Pack For California
Essentials
1. Sunscreen
Sun protection comes first. The days in California are quite sunny throughout the year. Save your skin from the darkening and sunburn caused due to exposure to the UV rays. While relaxing at the beautiful beaches of California Coast or enjoying the fun outdoor activities, make sure you apply high SPF moisturising sunscreen. Sun Bum is our most preferred water resistant and reef friendly sunscreen that we love to carry on such sunny destinations.
2. Sun Hat
Another essential thing that will protect you from sun’s harmful rays is a sun hat that has a good coverage in terms of UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). The sun hat from Lanzom provides UPF 50+ protection from the UV rays, looks stylish, feels comfortable and is adjustable. You can easily fold it and settle it into your hand bag.
3. Sun Glasses
Summer or winter, California sees plenty of sunshine on most days. Do not forget your sun glasses. Choose a pair of sunglasses that provides UV protection. We recommend you to check out these gorgeous sunglasses from Ray Ban, if you are looking for one.
4. Dry Bags
If you are looking forward to spending time at the sandy beaches of California, make sure you pack a dry bag too. It will be very useful to store your valuable items while you enjoy water activities like kayaking, fishing, canyoning or any other water activities. The dry bag will secure your essentials in a watertight manner so that they do not get wet. The Freegrace Dry Bag is a perfect choice when it comes to quality and reliability. They also come in a set of 3 dry bags that include a full size dry bag, an IPX8 Certified waterproof phone case and a waterproof pouch.
5. Camera
There are so many breath-taking and beautiful places to see in California. For capturing treasurable moments and fabulous picture worthy scenes, make sure you do not forget to carry your camera. Pack a tripod too that would provide you hands-free support in capturing pictures of you with your family and loved ones. If you are looking for an impressive camera, we highly recommend Sony 6400 for its incredible picture quality and stabilisation.
6. Cross Body Bag
For staying hands-free while exploring the streets of California, put a nice cross body bag too in your luggage. They are very convenient, look stylish and are practical when going out for strolls, street shopping, sightseeing, or visiting a nearby cafe. Put your keys, phone, wallet, small water bottle and other minimalist essentials that you might need, in to your cross body bag and you are good to go. Travelon’s cross body bag comes with anti theft features and RFID blocking design that makes it an ideal choice for a stress-free outing.
7. Waterproof Phone Case
Whether you are beach hopping or indulging in fun water activities in California, it would be wise to put your phone in a waterproof phone case. The universal waterproof phone case from Joto keeps your phone safe from snow, dust and water damage all the time. You will be able to access your phone, take pictures or make videos on the move too, while it stays protected in the case.
8. Toiletry Bag
Organising all your essential toiletries and medicines in a good toiletry bag, is all what you need for a fuss free access to them. We love the toiletry bag from Bagsmart as it comes with separate compartments and pockets that make it easy to arrange all the items in an appropriate way. The sturdy design of the bag ensures that the all the items stay in place and do not get damaged.
9. Filter Water Bottle
Keep yourself hydrated throughout your travel journey and do your bit in reducing the use of plastics. A filter water bottle not only provides you safe drinking water but also saves you a few bucks. You can easily refill them on the go and stay assured that you are drinking purified water.
10. Tote Bag
Foldable tote bags can be used for beach outings as well as shopping. Most stores in California do not give out plastic bags, but eco friendly paper bags with a surcharge. Having a tote bag during shopping trips would be really handy and save some money too.
11. Footwear – Sandals, Hike Boots & Flip Flops
If you are planning to spend more time at the beaches or poolsides, a pair of flip flops and some smarter sandals will be adequate. Opt for non-slip shoes with rubber soles.
For trekking trails, make sure you pack a pair of supportive waterproof hiking boots or shoes to protect your feet and for easier mobility across uneven terrains.
Dressy sandals and sneakers are flexible choices to be worn for special occasions, city tours or long walks.
Clothing
What To Pack For California In Summer
12. Summer Dresses
One of the most versatile clothing styles are light, breezy and comfortable summer dresses. You can wear chic summer dresses for club hopping, date nights, beach trips or for visiting sightseeing places.
13. Bottoms
Denims are a staple fashion piece to wear in California in summer. Cool pairs of denim shorts are comfortable to be worn to stay cool in the city. Long flowy skirts teamed up with chic tops also work well for warmer weather. Pack in atleast 2 pairs of jeans to add more comfort and versatility into your looks.
14. Swimwear
There are many fabulous beaches in California. So you should not forget to pack your swimwear. Choose comfortable swimwear options and cover ups like a kaftan for perfect beach trips.
What To Pack For California In Winter
15. Layered Clothing
A few thin layers that include long sleeved tees, sweatshirt, woollen tank tops, and light weight sweaters are sure to keep you cosy during winters. California winter’s are mild and not chilly. So you won’t be needing puffed or thick jackets. Also, pack medium weight jackets to be worn on breezy evenings or during hikes.
16. Warm Scarf, Gloves And Beanie
A cosy scarf, a decent pair of gloves, and a beanie should also be in your California packing list for winters.
17. Rain Coat and Rain boots
The rainiest season in California is the winters. So, you need to be prepared for rain showers too. Specially if you are planning activities like hiking or biking. Pack a light rain coat and a pair of anti slip rain boots to protect yourself from getting drenched in the rain.
What To Pack For California Checklist
Essentials
- Sunscreen
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
- Dry Bag
- Camera
- Cross Body Bag
- Waterproof Phone Case
- Toiletry Bag
- Filter Water Bottle
- Tote Bag
- Footwear – Sandals, Hike Boots & Flip Flops
What To Pack For California In Summer
- Summer Dresses
- Shorts, Jeans and Flowy Skirts
- Tops
- Swimwear and Cover Up (Kaftan)
What To Pack For California In Winter
- Layered Clothing : Long sleeved tees, sweatshirt, woollen tank tops, and light weight sweaters.
- Medium Weight Jackets
- Warm Scarf, Beanie and Gloves
- Rain Coat and Rain Boots
So, now you are set to have an amazing time in the Golden State. Also, be worry free about missing out anything by following our essentials California packing list.
Some Fast Facts About California
Best Time To Visit : Throughout the year
Capital City : Sacramento
City That Has The Best Climate Throughout The Year In California : Santa Barbara
Best Beach In California : Malibu
Most Beautiful Hike Trail In California : Yosemite National Park
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