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It may be nicknamed the City of Angels, but this trendy metropolis is more known for its A-listers, fashion, and art scene. If you’re headed to this fun West Coast city, see our tips for what to pack for Los Angeles year-round.

What to Pack for Los Angeles

I obviously have a soft spot for LA because that’s where I’m from and spent my formative years. I enjoy returning as much as I can to connect with friends and family and do so at least once a year.

We’ve crafted a great guide with travel tips on what to pack for Los Angeles year-round!

Wit & Wisdom Bootcut Jeans | Target Commuter 16″ Backpack

Los Angeles Clothing Style

Los Angeles is easy to dress for, as it contains so many diverse fashion styles. Reflecting the city’s relaxed lifestyle, the overall fashion in LA is casual and laid-back. Depending on the neighborhood, you’ll see a mix of athleisure, trendy streetwear, high-end designer, and beachwear.

Stylish locals are always on top of the trends but like to mix in a good amount of comfort with staple pieces like t-shirts, lots of denim, and sneakers. No matter your personal style, anything goes in Los Angeles!

Los Angeles is a big city so we’ve got the scoop on what to wear in LA by neighborhood so you can fit right in everywhere you go!

What to Pack for Los Angeles in Summer (June, July, August)

Summer in LA is hot and dry. Daytime temperatures are typically in the 80s (26 ℃), depending on where in Los Angeles you are. It’s always a bit cooler by the water and a lot hotter in the Valley.

In late May and early June, you’ll likely experience what’s known as “June Gloom,” which entails pleasantly warm weather but with gray skies for most of the day. Despite the moody weather, rain is extremely rare.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

Pact Softspun V-Neck Tank | Sizes XS-3X

Tops for Summer

Breathable clothing is a must for your Los Angeles packing list, so choose tops made from fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon.

Tank tops and t-shirts are easy basics that’ll have you set for most LA outings, so bring a few of each. The Pact Softspun tank top is a cute pick that’s made from breezy, 100% organic cotton. The relaxed fit with a deep v-neck elevates the look, so it’s great for both sightseeing and casual dinners!

J.Crew Capitaine Linen Shirt | Sizes XXS-3X

Slouchy linen tops are an easy way to stay comfortable in sweltering temps while looking effortlessly stylish.

Whether worn with wide leg pants for a voluminous look or paired with denim shorts for a beach day, this J. Crew linen button down is a stunner. It’s crisp and slightly structured yet soft and practical for warm-weather adventures.

Maeve The Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Pants | Sizes 23-34 (Regular, Tall, & Petite)

Bottoms for Summer

Linen pants are beachy-chic and perfect for summer in SoCal! They’re fabulous in the heat and will add an elegant touch to any look. Another bonus is that they can easily look dressy with some wedges and a pretty blouse.

Readers adore the Colette cropped wide-leg pants. Made of 100% linen, they exude casual chicness and feature practical additions like a comfortable waistband and roomy front pockets.

If you’re spending the day walking around different neighborhoods or hiking to the Hollywood sign, leggings or lightweight joggers are great staples that you’ll always see on locals! Add some trendy sneakers and a polished t-shirt, and you’re good to go!

Quince Washable Silk Maxi Skirt | Sizes XS-XL

Skirts are another easy, breezy option for summer in LA. Midi and maxi skirts are popular, as they’re chic yet comfortable and will give your legs some coverage from the strong California sun.

A silk or satin slip skirt is fun, flirty, and extremely versatile. Add sneakers and a tee during the day or strappy sandals and a cardigan for a night out! This Quince Washable Silk maxi skirt is a gorgeous option that’s travel-friendly and temperature-regulating!

Shop Sweaty Betty Midi Dress: Amazon | Nordstrom (Sizes XS-XL)

Dresses for Summer

No SoCal packing list is complete without a dress or two! They’re a cute and elevated option for virtually any activity, and they’re a nice way to keep cool. If you’ll be spending the day on foot, opt for a moisture-wicking dress to keep everything feeling fresh and comfortable.

Simple sundresses are always perfect for LA, too. From strolling the farmers market to dinner with an ocean view at Nobu, this quick drying dress from Sweaty Betty has a casual but feminine boho vibe for California!

Loveappella Surplice Maxi Dress | Sizes XS-XL Regular & 1X-3X Plus

A trip to Hollywood requires at least a bit of glamour! This Loveappella maxi dress is a stunning pick that readers absolutely love. It boasts a long, graceful silhouette and a deep neckline, so it’s perfect for a night out.

Maxi dresses like this one are always elegant and flattering!

J.Crew Classic Denim Jacket | Sizes XXXS-3X

Jackets for Summer

It’ll be sweltering during the day, but temperatures drop significantly at night – anywhere from 10 to 20 degrees. That means you’ll likely need a light jacket for the evenings and in the brisk mornings.

You can never go wrong with a classic denim jacket, which exudes that laid-back California vibe. They’re the perfect weight for a summer night and look great with everything from joggers to dresses.

This J.Crew jean jacket has a sleek fit and a sun-faded look. Its thoughtful tailoring and pretty hardware make it look high-quality.

Everlane The Cozy-Rib Cardigan | Sizes XXS-XXL

A light sweater is also a fabulous option for cooler nights. Summer knitwear is always a go-to for locals.

A simple cardigan like this one from Everlane is an easy option that you can wear on its own or layer over a t-shirt. It’s cute, flattering, and will look great with anything! And it’s made from a dreamy organic cotton blend that’s warm yet breathable.

Sorel Ella II Sandals

Shoes for Summer

For shoes, you’ll be set with a pair of sandals and a pair of sneakers.

Bring a fun yet comfortable pair of sandals that you can wear out and about during the day and dress up for dinner. These Sorel Ella II sandals are a cute, modern take on a gladiator style. They have a comfy footbed and a pretty leather upper with soft straps.

Most restaurants and bars are quite casual in LA, so you don’t need anything too dressy, though if you want a dressy option, go for some wedges or full on gladiator sandals!

Shop Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Sneakers: Amazon | Dr. Scholl’s

Stylish sneakers are a must in LA. White sneakers are always classic and go with everything, but you can never go wrong with a cute pair of tennis shoes, either.

Whether vintage shopping in Los Feliz or strolling down the Walk of Fame, these Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneakers will keep your feet comfortable and protected on those bustling city sidewalks! And they’ll add a cool flair to your outfits.

Here are comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!

What to Pack for Los Angeles in Fall (September, October, November)

Summer weather lasts throughout the fall in Los Angeles, so there are still plenty of beach days to be had on your autumn trip! You may see a bit of rain starting in early November, so be sure to check the weather forecast leading up to your trip.

Temperatures typically start at the low 80s and decrease to the low 70s F (16℃) by the end of the season, and nights are quite brisk. It’s a beautiful time to visit LA!

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:

Unbound Merino V-Neck T-Shirt | Sizes XS-XL

Tops for Fall

Pack a few basic t-shirts for your fall trip to LA. Perfect for warm days and easy to layer with on cooler nights, they’re easy staples for your capsule wardrobe. Despite the sunny weather, fall is the time to transition to a darker, earthy-toned color palette.

Merino wool is a wonderful fabric for warm weather and active days, with its naturally breathable, sweat-wicking, and anti-odor properties. This Unbound Merino t-shirt is casual yet nicely tailored and works for anything from hiking to brunch!

Quince Stretch Silk Tank | Sizes XS-XL

You can also keep cool in the heat with a tank top! Tanks are still seen around town in the fall and are great for layering.

This silk tank top from Quince is a lovely option for a night out. Its sleek fabric and flattering drape offer laid-back elegance and smooth, breathable comfort.

Madewell Curvy Curvy Kick Out Crop Jean
Sizes: 23-33 Regular, Petite, & Tall | 14W-20W Plus

Bottoms for Fall

While you can definitely get away with shorts in the fall, you should save them for beach days and instead opt for pants or skirts when exploring the city.

Lightweight cropped pants or cropped jeans will feel great in the warm weather and are perfect for showing off some cute shoes. Wide leg pants are a popular style, and they’re an easy way to achieve a fashion-forward look while staying comfortable throughout the day.

These cute Madewell patch pocket jeans are made of a cotton-blend fabric that sculpts and flatters while remaining incredibly comfortable. They only need a slouchy tee or linen blouse and trendy sneakers for a chic look!

Athleta Brooklyn Heights High Rise Pleated Pants
Sizes: 0-26 Regular | 0-16 Tall | 0-14 Petite

Lean into the athleisure style that Angelenos love by packing a pair of sporty-chic pants. Their breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics will keep you cool and dry throughout the day.

The Athleta Brooklyn wide leg pants are an adorable pair that have the comfort and functionality of activewear but definitely don’t skimp on style!

Despite the warm weather, you’ll see plenty of jeans around town – particularly in slouchier silhouettes. And for days when you want to keep it casual and comfy, or if you’re heading to Topanga for a hike, bring along a pair of black leggings!

Quince Linen Button Front Dress | Sizes XS-XL

Dresses for Fall

Take advantage of the gorgeous fall weather with a cute dress! This Quince linen dress has the perfect look for fall, with a midi length and a gorgeous earthy hue. Wear it strolling through Malibu, barhopping in Silverlake, or as a beach coverup!

Michael Stars Andrea One Shoulder Midi Dress | Sizes XS-XL

Los Angeles is generally very laid-back in terms of style, so simple dresses or even jeans and nice blouses are acceptable for most restaurants and bars, That said, if you plan on going to clubs or nicer restaurants, LA is such a fun place to get dolled up and really lean into the glitz and glam of the city! You can never go wrong with a little black travel dress!

This one from Michael Stars would be such a fun addition to your LA wardrobe. It has a flirty one-shoulder design and a stylish midi length. While it has a slim fit, the side ruching and ultra rib fabric make it extremely flattering and comfortable!

Caslon Relaxed Knit Blazer | Sizes XXS-XXL

Jackets for Fall

The evening temps are lovely in LA in the fall, though they can be a tad chilly, so pack a lightweight jacket. Choose something made from a lightweight and breathable fabric, whether a jean jacket or a sweatshirt.

We love the Caslon knit blazer, which has a relaxed yet polished vibe. It’s soft and versatile for casual days or dressier nights. Or you can always dress like the SoCal residents and wear a stylish hoodie instead! Quince’s Flowknit hoodie is a great basic that could easily look more elevated with some jeans or wide leg pants and cute shoes!

Quince Stretch Crepe Cropped Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

An oversized blazer or a shorter cropped option will add major style points to both casual and dressy looks, so it’s another fabulous option when visiting this trendy city!

The Quince cropped crepe jacket is a pretty and polished option and can be layered with a long-sleeve tee or light merino sweater if you need a bit of warmth, but would also do well in the heat of the day as it’s lightweight!

Shop Samba OG Sneaker: Nordstrom | Amazon | Adidas

Shoes for Fall

Sneakers are the best shoes for Fall in LA, so bring one or two pairs to switch it up during your trip. You might want to consider a more polished option, like a sleek slip on sneaker or a trendy tennis shoe, and then another athletic sneaker for long walking days or a hike at Runyon Canyon!

Adidas Sambas are a quintessential LA sneaker! They’re not only cute and versatile, with a leather and suede upper that elevates than a bit but they’re also extremely comfortable and great for sightseeing.

Shop Vionic Kensley Loafer: Amazon | Nordstrom

Fall in LA is great for flats or loafers, too, and the Kensley loafers from Vionic offer cushioning, stability, and arch support. They’re comfortable for walking, and the suede upper gives them a polished sheen. You could wear them with flared leggings for a stroll on the Venice boardwalk or with a cute dress with pockets for a day at Universal Studios.

I also love the Taos Plim Soul Lux sneakers due to their polished leather upper and cushioning and have used them several times on my travels. If you want something more sporty, the Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers are a popular pick with readers, particularly for heavy sightseeing days.

Sunny, beach-inspired clothing is always in style in SoCal, regardless of the season, so sandals work, too! Unless you’re heading to the beach in flip flops, opt for some platform slides or strappy black sandals.

What to Pack for Los Angeles in Winter (December, January, February)

Although you’ll see plenty of locals bundling up with down jackets and beanies, winter in LA is quite mild! If you’re accustomed to cold weather, you’re sure to enjoy the crisp, cool temperatures that hover around the 60s (20℃) to mid 50s F (10℃).

Winter is the rainiest time of year, and you’ll usually see rain in spurts of around 3-7 days in a row before the sun peeks out again, so check the weather forecast and be prepared for rain just in case.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

Everlane The Luxe Micro-Rib Long-Sleeve Crew | Sizes XXS-XL

Tops for Winter

Long sleeve tees are perfect for the winter weather and the laid-back atmosphere of California. Simple and easy to style, they’re great capsule wardrobe basics!

This Everlane long sleeve micro rib tee is slightly fitted for a more polished and feminine look. Wearers say the soft, breathable cotton is wonderful for travel as it stays looking nice wear after wear and wash after wash!

Quince Cashmere Crewneck Sweater | Sizes XS-XL Regular & 1X-3X Plus

In the evenings and on chillier days, you’ll want a cozy sweater. Opt for sweaters that are lightweight yet plush and insulating, like cashmere, merino wool, or alpaca.

This cashmere crewneck sweater from Quince is a consistent favorite with readers! The classic fit, high quality cashmere, and warming comfort make this a major win for winter travel. Plus, you can dress it up and down easily!

KUT Meg Fab Ab High Waist Wide Leg Jeans | Sizes 00-18

Bottoms for Winter

Jeans are the default style of pants during the cooler seasons in California. You’ll see every style of jeans in LA, though looser-fitting pairs are the most popular, no doubt stemming from the area’s laid-back surf culture.

These Kut from the Kloth wide leg jeans have that stylish wide leg silhouette and a cool raw hem, and the beautiful wash, flattering fit, and high quality look kick them up a few notches!

Old Navy High-Waisted Pull-On Pixie Wide-Leg Pants | Sizes XS-4X

Locals prioritize comfort, so you should, too! Pack some comfortable travel pants, as they’ll be a dream to wear on gloomy sightseeing days. Joggers are another great option that you can wear for active adventures and just strolling around town.

The Old Navy Pixie wide leg pants were made for travel, so they’re lightweight, cozy, and breathable. The sleek fabric and elongating shape make them versatile, too. Style them up with a cashmere sweater and some leather boots!

Wool& Eliza Swing Dress | Sizes XS-3X

Dresses for Winter

Dresses are worn year-round, so bring one or two versatile pieces that you can style up in different ways and wear for various occasions. Long sleeve dresses and merino wool dresses are ideal for looking elevated while staying warm during LA’s mild winters!

The Wool& Eliza swing dress is simple yet pretty. It has a flattering a-line shape and long sleeves to keep you warm. The lightweight merino wool knit couldn’t be more travel-friendly—it doesn’t wrinkle or retain odor, and is naturally thermoregulating!

Lands’ End Cozy Lofty Sweater Dress | Sizes XS-3X

On cooler nights, a lightweight sweater dress is perfect! The Lands’ End ribbed midi dress has a cotton and wool blend, so it’ll keep you warm on a chilly evening but the materials are breathable, so you won’t be hot and uncomfortable.

Cole Haan Packable Hooded Rain Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Jackets for Winter

Chances are you’ll see at least a bit of rain during your trip, so pack a rain jacket. Make sure it’s not too bulky and stifling but rather a breathable, mid-weight option that you can layer underneath for extra warmth if need be.

Cole Haan’s packable rain jacket is a great option because it’s functional and looks great whether or not it’s raining! It’s neutral and classic, with a removable hood and a cute bow detail in the back. And it’s easy to pack down and stash in your day bag.

Quince Lightweight Down Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Temps drop significantly at night, so a lightweight down puffer jacket is another great staple to add to your LA packing list. Puffer jackets are simple and cute, so they’ll look great with a wide variety of outfits, plus they’re conveniently very packable.

This one from Quince is a cute pick that’s designed with a comfortable hood and water-resistant fabric in case rain is in the forecast!

While it may not be snowing or even freezing in LA, locals love their winter accessories. If you’re used to a warm climate similar to SoCal, you’ll love having a beanie and scarf on hand!

Ecco Sculpted Luxury Ankle Boot

Shoes for Winter

When the weather cools down, LA locals switch from sandals to boots. Sleek black ankle boots look fabulous with everything and will easily elevate your outfits!

The Ecco Sculpted LX ankle boots have an almond toe and a slight heel, making them the perfect neutral yet slightly sassy option for strolling down Rodeo Drive or wandering through the Getty Villa. The best part about them is they’re incredibly comfortable!

Shop Vionic Kearny Loafer: Amazon | Nordstrom

As the weather is never freezing, sneakers are great options for the wintertime, too. Leather sneakers are not only luxe and chic but will offer a bit more warmth.

The Vionic Kearny slip on sneakers are comfortable yet sophisticated, with a leather exterior and a platform sole that elevates them. These pretty sneakers will look great with wide leg jeans, and are polished enough to look amazing with dresses, too!

What to Pack for Los Angeles in Spring (March, April, May)

Spring in Los Angeles is crisp and cool, varying greatly both in temperature and rainfall. Average daily temperatures range from the high 50s (10℃) to the low 70s F (16℃) throughout the season, and many days are overcast, particularly near the coast.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

Rails Ellis Button-Up Shirt | Sizes XXS-XXL

Tops for Spring

If you run warm or are used to cool weather, you’ll likely feel comfortable in t-shirts. Long sleeve tops, however, are ideal for the season. Bring a mix of basic long sleeve t-shirts and some oversized white button downs.

This Rails cotton gauze white button up is soft, comfortable, and offers the perfect amount of coverage for a cool spring day. The fit is well-tailored and polished, so it’s the perfect versatile shirt to mix into your capsule wardrobe!

Treasure & Bond Relaxed V-Neck Sweater | Sizes XXS-XL

For chillier days and cold nights, a slouchy sweater suits the SoCal style! Chunky yet lightweight, this Treasure & Bond sweater is a wonderful pick for spring. It has a chic, oversized fit and a gorgeously sleek look that’ll dress up casual outfits and pair nicely with dressy trousers and skirts.

Madewell Harlow Wide-Leg Pant
Sizes: 00-16 Regular, Petite, & Tall | 14W-28W Plus

Bottoms for Spring

Wide leg pants are both in style and comfortable to walk around in, so pack a simple pair that you can dress up and down. You can’t go wrong with versatile black travel pants for the same reasons!

Offering it all in terms of both fashion and function, these Madewell Harlow wide leg pants are a major favorite among TFG readers. These pants have a stylishly nonchalant vibe that LA is known for, but they can easily look sophisticated with a sweater and leather boots.

Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution High Waist Wide Leg Jeans | Sizes 0-18

Jeans are a must for LA year-round, and you’ll definitely see a lot of them around town in the spring. Perfect for the cool weather, jeans are a versatile pant option that you can wear casually during the day and also to virtually any restaurant or bar!

These Wit and Wisdom jeans boast a wide leg silhouette and a pretty medium wash that makes them look dressier. These pants are designed to shape and flatter while keeping you comfortable, so you’ll be looking and feeling confident in this pair!

Chico’s Classic Short Sleeve Maxi Dress | Sizes XS-XL Regular & Petite

Dresses for Spring

Florals and pastels are always lovely for springtime, although the most stylish LA locals often keep it simple and chic with darker neutrals and even all-black. Darker colors will actually compliment the often gloomy weather of LA in the springtime!

This Chico’s Travelers Dress has a timeless midi silhouette and short-sleeved, crewneck design, making this dress versatile and classy. While perfect for exploring LA’s exciting nightlife, you could dress it down with sneakers for a cute daytime look.

Faherty Legend Sweater Dress | Sizes XXS-XXL

Shirtdresses are easygoing and polished, so they’re another great dress option for LA, and this Faherty sweater dress will keep you nice and cozy! It’s soft and warm and drapes beautifully, with a button-down front elevating the overall look.

Quince 100% Merino Wool Shirt Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Jackets for Spring

Bring a lightweight to midweight jacket with you on your trip. If you’ll be spending a lot of time near the water, you may need a windbreaker or a down puffer jacket to keep warm, as it’s always much colder at the coast.

Cool and laid-back, this Shacket from Quince totally looks like it belongs in LA! The oversized fit and large buttons add style, while the deliciously soft, 100% merino wool fabric keeps it functional. It’s perfect for layering, too!

Levi’s Faux Leather Moto Jacket | Sizes XS-XXL

If your style is a bit more edgy, then consider packing a leather jacket! Timeless and very practical for the cool weather, you can dress up a pair of leggings with it or add it to your going-out look.

Levi’s Moto jacket is made of faux leather that’s soft and flexible but still looks luxe and high quality! It’s easy to move around in and comfortable to layer with, too.

Blondo Raniah Waterproof Bootie

Shoes for Spring

Leather boots are a great shoe option for the season. If you’ll be in LA during a rainy spell and plan on doing a good amount of walking outdoors, then opt for a waterproof pair. Otherwise, anything goes, from sleek Chelsea boots to chunky mid-calf boots.

For something chic and eye-catching, these Blondo Raniah boots have a stacked heel, are waterproof, and have a memory foam footbed to cushion feet. Plus, they’re so cute and would look amazing with faux leather leggings or a pencil skirt.

And because LA has an incredible history of rock-n-roll (we did mention the leather leggings), you may to embrace a part of the iconic style by donning a pair of motorcycle boots! Be sure to take otmo boots for a spin in legendary Laurel Canyon, where you’ll no doubt see similar pairs!

Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane

While you can definitely bring out some sandals in the spring, many days will still be a bit too chilly for them. Instead, keep it light for spring with some flats. Classic ballet flats, mary janes, and loafers are all great options that you can wear casually with jeans and a tee and also wear on a night out.

These Rothy’s mary janes have a fresh, feminine look that’s perfect for LA in the spring! They’re flexible, supportive, comfy to walk in, and super low maintenance. Pair them with casual pants or dressy skirts!

Read these articles for destinations close to LA:

Away The Carry-On, 21″

What is the Best Luggage for Los Angeles?

Now that you have an idea of what to pack for Los Angeles, it’s time to pick out your luggage. If you’re looking for a hardside pick, readers rave about the Away Carry On. It’s so easy to maneuver around airports and airplane aisles, with a telescoping handle and amazingly smooth spinner wheels. Loved for both domestic and international travel, this carry on is described as compact yet impressively roomy inside!

Travelpro Maxlite 5, 21″

If you want a more traditional wheeled suitcase, the ultimate reader’s favorite brand is Travelpro. Their 21” Maxlite 5 carryon suitcase has spinner wheels, organizational pockets on the front, and even has expandable capacity to pack a little bit more.

Read these tips on how to pick a suitcase and consider one of these top brands.

WANDF 18″ Foldable Travel Duffle Bag

A travel tip for souvenir shopping in Los Angeles is to bring a packable duffle bag to store all your goodies.

Readers swear by the Wandf packable duffle and say it’s so easy to transport and is useful for other things like hauling laundry, not just gifts or souvenirs.

Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes

Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes, which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, while keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free.

Many readers use our Compass Rose Packing Cubes for packing, and they’re now offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13″ x 5″ x 2.8″, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8″ x 13″ x 8.5″. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase and can help you organize and compress clothing items.

The medium size is great for bulkier items or clothes you may want to fold instead of roll. Check out this video on how to organize using packing cubes; it’s incredibly easy!

Compass Rose Digital Luggage Scale

Be aware that airlines are becoming increasingly strict about baggage allowances, so use a luggage scale to always ensure you meet weight requirements. This will save you the headache of having to check in your carry on because you’ve gone over the limit and pack it into a personal item so if you buy anything to take home, you’re not exceeding weight for your return.

Also, always remember to check with each airline you’re flying with for the latest baggage policies, as they can change.

If you want more resources on what type of suitcase to choose for Los Angeles, start here:

Shop Sherpani Soleil Anti Theft Backpack: Amazon | Sherpani

Best Purse or Day Bag for Los Angeles

If you’ll be out and about all day and want to make sure you have all the essentials on you, opt for a backpack! It should be compact and comfy to carry yet nice and roomy for all of your things.

In big cities like LA, there’s a risk of pickpocketing in crowded or touristy areas, so you may want to choose an anti-theft backpack that no one can get into, especially because the zippers are out of sight.

The Sherpani Soleil convertible backpack is a reader fave that has numerous organizational pockets, RFID blocking, secure zippers, and a chair lock cable. And you can flip it into a backpack, tote, or crossbody!

The Travelon Classic backpack is another stylish and secure option with tons of anti-theft features as well as excellent organization, and durable fabric.

Lo&Sons Pearl Crossbody Bag

If you want to travel light, a crossbody purse is another great sightseeing bag for London. Crossbodies are secure and comfortable, and your belongings will always be within reach.

If you want something more elevated, the Lo&Sons Pearl shoulder bag is perfect and so versatile for carrying in the day or for your night’s adventures. It’s made of sleek leather and has great compartments.

Or if you want practical and cute, the Travelon Classic Messenger bag is a popular travel purse that offers excellent organization and versatility. It holds a day’s necessities, feels light and is comfortable to carry, and has anti-theft features to keep everything secure.

Bandolier Emma Pebble Leather Crossbody

Alternatively, you could also opt for a sling bag or fanny pack, and if you want to have your phone ready to take pics, readers recommend crossbody phone purses, such as the Bandolier Emma crossbody phone purse. It’s sleek, can hold cards in the back, and is super practical to keep your phone secure while you snap photos.

Los Angeles Accommodations

Accommodation in LA can be rather pricey, especially if you’re staying along the beach. Palihotel Melrose is a centrally located hotel with a funky vibe, and Mama Shelter is one of Hollywood’s trendiest hotels. If you want to splurge in an iconic experience, try the famously pink and green Beverly Hills Hotel!

Airbnb is a great option for accommodation in Los Angeles and other parts of California. I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb.

Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life, plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel, such as a kitchen and washing machine. Sign up here for a free $40 credit!

Read these Airbnb tips for more info!

If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, try using Agoda.com and Hotels.com.

Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!

What to Do in Los Angeles

When traveling to LA, make sure to check out some of these legendary sites:

The Griffith Observatory
Santa Monica Pier
The Getty Museum / The Getty Villa
Third Street Promenade
West Hollywood Bar Scene
The Academy Museum
Malibu Pier
Universal Studios
Disneyland

Los Angeles Transportation

Public transportation isn’t great in LA (in fact, it’s one of the worst), but it’s slowly getting better. You can take the metro or bus, but you’ll find most locals driving their own cars or taking a Lyft or Uber. To get in and out of the city, try a train or bus at Union Station.

I love renting a car with Alamo because they have a super easy self check-in and free shuttle at the airport. I’ve used them to book rentals in LA on three different occasions now for a total of six weeks. I can’t recommend them enough. Book here!

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

Safety

Safety is a big concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy cities like Los Angeles, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

How can I stay safe while traveling in Los Angeles?

Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Make your clothing theft-proof, and choose items with strong zippers.

Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch them.

Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list.

And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap.

Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses.

These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:

Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.

Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel!

Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for Los Angeles

Bra stash, neck pouch, or money belt with RFID protection
Anti-theft Crossbody Bags
Passport case
TSA-approved luggage lock
Clothing with hidden pockets (like underwear, tops, and scarves)

What are your tips on what to pack for Los Angeles? Please comment below!

These are a few popular Los Angeles guidebooks:

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4 Comments

Joyce Craig on November 9, 2019 at 5:10 am

Hi. Good packing tips. But I live in LA and it’s never 120 in the City. Don’t be scared off — I’ve not known anyone to be pick pocketed or have their purse slashed — except possibly on Hollywood Blvd where tourists are packed onto the streets. But if you’re renting a car – do not leave anything in view — because window smashing IS a thing here, even in the “best” neighborhoods.
- Alex on November 13, 2019 at 12:44 am
  
  Hi Joyce, thank you for sharing your helpful advice for Los Angeles with us, always love hearing from a local!! ?
trish piazza on October 17, 2017 at 8:24 am

Thanks! We live in the wind West but my husband travels to California all the time for work and I never know what to wear. I’m bookmarking this page!
- alex on October 19, 2017 at 10:23 am
  
  Glad you like it!

What to Pack for Los Angeles: A Year-Round Guide + Travel Tips