Lifestyle Loungers

If you’re planning another trip to the American West, it’s a good idea to reconsider what you need to bring along. So, here’s a guide to essential items for enjoying your prepared California journey!

Sunscreen

First and foremost, sunscreen is a must-have for your California adventure. California is renowned for its abundant sunshine, and protecting your skin from the sun is crucial! ☀️ Make sure to bring sunscreen with a high SPF. Whether you’re not used to applying sunscreen often or prefer BB cream with sun protection, it doesn’t matter—just bring plenty of sunscreen that suits your skin. The sunlight in California is truly on another level!

Sunglasses

Secondly, sunglasses are a must-have accessory. Not only do they shield you from the sun, but they also add a stylish touch to your look by partially covering your face. Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from UV rays, and they come in handy while driving. (I feel a bit embarrassed admitting my age, but 😅) As Lee Min-ho mentioned in “The Heirs,” sunglasses here are not just a fashion item but a necessity. So, pack them leisurely and wear them to enhance your style!

Athletic Shoes

Athletic shoes can be useful for various activities. California is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and offers various outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and beach walks. Comfortable shoes are a must for enjoying these activities. Even if you’re not interested in trails and just want cute shoes for your travel, be aware that there’s plenty of dirt and sandy paths. So, it’s recommended to bring comfortable sneakers or athletic shoes.

Portable Camping Chair or Mat

A portable chair or mat is a convenient tool for taking a break or enjoying a picnic. It comes in handy when spending time in California’s parks or on the beach. Bringing a lightweight, affordable portable chair can be useful during your travels. Picnicking in the park is a must-do in California, so make sure to bring picnic essentials to enjoy a meal or snacks with friends or family.

Swimsuit

California has many beautiful beaches and swimming pools. Therefore, having a swimsuit to enjoy swimming or sunbathing on the beach is a great idea. Even if you don’t plan to get into the water, wearing a swimsuit on the beach can still be enjoyable. Even during winter in California, there are many places where you can experience a warm outdoor jacuzzi at your accommodation. So, a swimsuit is a must regardless of the season!

Water Bottle / Chopsticks

California often experiences drought, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Bringing a large water bottle that allows you to quench your thirst anytime and even wash your hands a bit is a good idea. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle for environmental reasons. Also, for outdoor eating, reusable chopsticks can be more convenient than disposable forks, if you used to use chopsticks when you eat noodles! Having a set of reusable chopsticks can make outdoor dining much more comfortable.

Map or Navigation App

California is vast, and there might be areas where your phone signal is weak, or you might get lost. Therefore, a map or a smartphone navigation app is essential. Especially for national parks with challenging terrains, it’s recommended to download offline maps using Google Maps’ offline feature in advance.

Windbreaker or Light Outerwear

California’s weather is diverse, and evenings can become cool. There might be times when you’ll feel like you need to wear all four seasons’ worth of clothes in a single day. Hence, having a lightweight and portable windbreaker or jacket can be very useful. A windbreaker is handy in the hot and dry California weather, and it can also be used indoors during the summer.

Spacious Tote Bag / Backpack

Preparing for a California trip can lead to accumulating various items. From picnic gear to water bottles and sunglasses, having a spacious bag is crucial. Moreover, when traveling in the U.S., it’s recommended not to leave belongings in the car for safety reasons. So, having a bag size that allows you to carry your essentials all the time is beneficial. Consider bringing an extra bag for any shopping you might do during your trip.I