How to Pack for a Trip to Los Angeles

Los Angeles lives up to its reputation of sun, sand and surf even in the winter. Dress light in the summer and layer in the winter to be comfortable in this mild climate.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carry-on Bags
• Garment Bags
• Luggage Sets
• Sunglasses
• Swimsuits
• Travel Clothes
• Sunscreen
• Backpacks
• Duffel Bags
• Swimsuits

1. Prepare for sun and mild-to-warm temperatures most of the year. The L.A. sun is dry; rain touches this glamorous corner of the country infrequently.

2. 

   Pack business attire appropriate to your line of work. Business casual is widely accepted in most offices. Think lightweight materials year-round.

3. 

   Bring casual clothes with a dressy edge for taking in the sights and spending time visiting friends. Sundresses are great for women, while shorts and a button-down short-sleeved shirt are appropriate for men. Although this town is notoriously relaxed, people tend to dress up versus down.

4. 

   Take a fleece jacket and a few sweaters to layer when visiting during January, February and March. Pack clothes made of lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen and rayon for spring, summer and fall visits.

5. 

   Pack a pair of sandals or canvas sneakers for daytime; bring comfortable but casual dress shoes for evenings.

6. Remember black will hide dirt and absorb heat; white and ivory will betray dirt but keep you cool. Color in general is very popular in L.A. attire.

7. 

   Bring sunglasses and sunscreen.

8. 

   Stash a swimsuit in your bag for a quick dip in a hotel pool or a swim in the Pacific Ocean.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a carry-on bag that includes all necessities you might need in case your luggage goes astray: a change of clothes, all medications, spare contact lenses or glasses, all forms of money and any important documents.
• Pack to accommodate your needs. Leave superfluous items at home.

on 11/22/2005 If you're going Downtown to the Staples Center for a concert dress well according to who you're going to see. If you're going to a game, comfort is key. When visiting Beverly Hills, or Hollywood, dress in your best but not formal. You can never go wrong with black pants. And no matter what time of day, where sun glasses. In the nicer parts of L.A. we like to be inconspicuous.

on 11/22/2005 If you want to do the real L.A., you'll be out of place in traditional, dull or touristy duds. Wear the best you can afford; people here are diplomatic to your face but will evaluate you by your clothes.