Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward us a small commission – at no extra cost for you.
Pajamas? Check. Toothbrush? Check. You’ve got the “boring” essentials, but what else do you need for your trip to LA or any other vacation spot? Here’s a list of 8 LA outfit packing essentials I was so glad I brought along on my trip with me that will hopefully help you too!
8 LA Outfit Packing Essentials
1. sneakers
I’ll admit that I usually go for style over comfort, but you do not want your trip ruined over something like aching feet! I usually pack one pair of sneakers that are not only comfortable but go great with any outfit. You still want to look cute and not like you’re going to hit the gym…enter a pair of white canvas sneakers!
bodysuit (similar)
skirt (h&m, old)
sneakers (target, similar)
2. a couple of longer bottom options such as a maxi skirt or cropped pants
Even if you’re going at a good time weather-wise, it can still be a bit chilly in the morning and at night. To stay warm and not sacrifice style, make sure you bring a couple of options for bottoms that are longer!
I loved having my cropped high waisted culottes with me. The white still screams spring/summer while the length is perfect for staying warm, but also letting in a little breeze!
Â
pants (levi’s, similar)
top (thrifted, similar)
slides (Rue21, similar)
necklace
scrunchie
I also loved having my maxi skirt! It kept my legs covered on a cloudy day, but when the sun came out it was still flowy and easy!
Â
bodysuit (similar)
skirt (h&m, old)
slides (rue21, similar)
3&4. strappy sundress + espadrilles
In LA, all styles go, but they are known for being pretty casual. For your night out look, go for a strappy sundress paired with espadrilles. You’ll still be dressed up without looking too fancy!
dress (Forever21, similar)
espadrilles (Payless, similar)
5. small backpack or larger purse
Though I have tons of adorable small straw bags that I wanted to use, it just wasn’t as practical for the amount of stuff I needed to tote around. Especially if you go shopping or want to carry an extra layer and don’t want to make trips back and forth to the hotel.
It ended up being so nice to have my hands free though! Avoid the college/hiking style and go for something that is small yet fashionable. This can double as airport luggage too!
backpack (similar)
skirt (h&m, old)
sneakers (target, similar)
chambray (tjmaxx, similar)
6. multifunctional swimsuit
Of course, no suitcase is complete without a swimsuit! This particular swimsuit top can be worn either as a halter top or bandeau style.
I’d almost say this type of swimsuit is an essential because you can take the strap out so you don’t have any weird tan lines when laying out, or leave it in to provide extra support when walking on the beach!
Also, if you’re feeling a bit more laid back you could wear the swimsuit top under a button-down with a couple of buttons undone as a makeshift bralette!
swimsuit top
swimsuit bottoms (kortni jeane, similar)
7. light outerwear such as a button down
Along with needing some longer bottoms, you’ll want a light outerwear option as well! I found having a relaxed fit button down came in handy way more than I thought.
It can work as a swimsuit coverup or part of your regular outfit. It can be stuffed easily in a bag and worn different ways whether you knot it over a dress or tie it on your waist!
button down
pants (levi’s, similar)
8. sunglasses
Such a small item that sometimes gets overlooked! Not only are they practical and protect your eyes, but they definitely complete your look and give those laid back LA vibes!
Â
sunglasses (Francescas, similar)
pants (Tjmaxx, similar)
slides (Rue21, similar)
bodysuit (similar)
Planning my next vacation the minute I get back from my last one…does that sound like you too? Hehe
Pin this packing list to save it for your next trip to LA or any other vacation! And check out my LA guide for things to do that would be perfect for a girls trip!
Related Posts:
- Pack Your Beach Vacations Outfit in Just a Carry-On
- Your New Favorite Things to do in Iowa City
- 3 Chic Travel Outfit Formulas that are First Class Worthy
Yep, looks like the perfect LA essentials to me!! I love that maxi skirt. So cute!
That maxi skirt is one of my favorite clearance finds!
I sure hope I get to visit LA one day. It’s certainly up there on my travel bucket list. Really, all of California is haha. This packing list sounds great for so many different places in the summer. You listed all the essentials, that’s for sure!
All of California is amazing! I could always go back!
Completely agree with this whole LA essentials, these are all must haves. & giiiirl these shots are a mood
So happy you love the shots 🙂 Photography is oh so fun!
Great packing list babe!! I am loving the skirt (SO cute), the maxi dress with espadrille wedges, and the button down!! Cute sunnies for sure too!
Kileen
cute & little
Thanks so much girl!
I love all the pieces you chose here! Perfect for LA and the weather.
Now I’m just ready to go again haha!
Sneakers are a must-have when you are walking around a ton.
Totally agree! Makes all the difference!
These are the most gorgeous photos!
Thanks so much! Love when places pretty much photography themselves!
This is such a great packing list! I definitely agree with sneakers with any big city!
It really helps to improve the trip…especially if you’re doing a lot of walking!
Great packing list and such cute outfits. I absolutely love the skirt!
Thank you! One of my favorite finds!
Love the pictures!!! I love your outfits especially the orange pants
Thank you! They make a fun bold summer statement!
Love this outfit list. Those orange pants are amazing. Everything is so chic and put together. Love it!
Aw thanks so much! Happy it was easy to follow!
Such cute outfits! I’m loving those culottes on you – I may have to get a pair and try those out 🙂
Thank you! They’re such a fun pair of pants that are different than the norm!
Sneakers and sunglasses are truly a must especially when travelling! I walk tons whenever I’m out of town or out of the country that’s why I always have a pair of sneakers and flats with me.
I hear ya! A comfy pair of shoes is a must!
This list really got me in a travel mood! I’m mentally packing already! Awesome post!
Right there with ya. Always mentally packing hehe!
Wow, that bathing suit is so good! Lovely fit on you too- and I really like the pics you took on the beach, they have a great mood. Really liking the cullotes too, I need to gt my hands on a good pair for summer.
Thanks so much, Silvia! I’m really into the high waisted swimsuits. Hides my mom stomach haha!
I love the red dress!
It’s good to have a party/casual option!
Oh my gosh I seriously love every single one of these looks! Casual-cute and perfect for you! You’re nailing adorable travel style 🙂
Aw, thanks! I love travel style!
All of your pictures are gorgeous babe!! Love all the outfits especially that swimsuit!! <3 <3
Thank you! I love high waisted swimsuits now! Gotta hide that mummy tummy haha!
But did this fit all on a carry-on? That’s the real question, lol. Love the striped looks!
Haha! Well to answer your question, it did 😉
A good pair of sneakers are a definite must! I can’t imagine walking around LA without them!
That’s for sure! You’d have dead feet by the end of the day!
I just love maxi skirts! Especially as the weather get warmer. Maxi skirts and sandals are the best!
you’re absolutely right, LA can be very warm during the day and surprisingly cold at night. Loved the retro bikini, very cute!
I am loving the high waisted swimsuit look. Covers my mommy tummy haha!
i always love your photos – so beautiful and artistic!
Wow so many cute looks all in one post!!! I love the wide leg pants! The shade is gorgeous.
Thanks so much, Whitney 🙂
OMG love love love that red dress and that swimsuit!
Thanks so much, Ashley 🙂