With thousands of casinos, clubs, shows and more to choose from, Las Vegas is all about fun and relaxation. That’s why the last thing you want to be doing on a long-awaited vacation or weekend getaway is wasting time shopping for a replacement for something you left at home. Determining what to pack for Vegas can be more of a challenge than many first-time visitors expect, but luckily you’re not alone.
In the following guide, we’ll take a closer look at which essentials should be on every Vegas packing list, covering everything from the things you’ll need from day to day as well as a few items which many Sin City visitors might never think to pack. Here’s what experienced travelers and AAA recommend you should bring.
Toiletries
While vacationing in Vegas, it's important to look and feel your best, so it's advisable to pack an ample supply of toiletries for your trip. In addition to the essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant and any specific soaps or shampoos you require, it's worth considering the inclusion of the following items:
Sunscreen
If you’re planning an excursion to Red Rock Canyon or any of the hiking, biking or riding trails around the city, bring along some SPF 30 sunscreen. Even if you don’t plan to spend time outdoors, Las Vegas typically receives around 300 days of sunlight every year, with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F in the summer. With that in mind, pick up enough sunscreen to prevent sunburn and other heat-related issues during your stay.
Chapstick, Lotion or Moisturizer
Desert air is exceptionally dry and Las Vegas’ many casinos and hotels typically keep their interiors cool and dry for the comfort of their guests. Unfortunately, this can sap the moisture from your lips and skin, leaving you uncomfortable during what should be a memorable vacation. Avoid this issue by packing a few ChapSticks and a bottle of your favorite lotion or moisturizing skin cream to protect your skin and stay comfortable during your trip.
First Aid Supplies
Most places where you might visit or stay in Las Vegas are staffed by attentive people with emergency training. However, you may not always be able to get help in an emergency, so invest in a travel-sized first aid kit before you head off. Make sure your kit contains essentials such as Band-Aids and bandages, disinfectant, medical tape, eyedrops, hand sanitizer and any other items you may think necessary. It’s also a good idea to bring along extra prescription medicines if you need any.
Painkillers
If you’re planning to drink alcohol while visiting Vegas, bring your preferred painkiller to help with any after-effects. Although ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin and other pain relievers can be bought in any number of pharmacies, stores or hotels in town, many vacationers find it’s easier to bring some along and avoid the shopping trip.
Clothing
What you wear in Las Vegas will depend heavily on how you plan to spend your time. If you intend to indulge in the city's vibrant nightlife, it's advisable to focus on packing evening wear that suits the occasion, as well as comfortable clothing for relaxation. It's always a good idea to pack one or two versatile garments or outfits for unexpected situations, as Las Vegas is known for its unpredictable nature. Here are a few essential clothing items that every visitor should consider bringing along:
Hats
As mentioned, Las Vegas is one of the sunniest cities in the United States. Even if you plan to spend all your time cooling off indoors, bring a hat that offers plenty of protection from the sun. If you want to be prepared for whatever comes your way, pack one more formal hat and one casual one for daily wear.
Comfortable Shoes
If you plan to move around Vegas on your feet, pack at least one comfortable, supportive pair of walking shoes, one pair of dress shoes and one pair of sandals to wear if you want to relax near a swimming pool.
Swimwear
Hotels in Las Vegas pride themselves on offering everything their guests could want to stay comfortable — including, famously, swimming pools and hot tubs. Avoid high prices and lost time by packing at least one swimsuit.
Warm Garments
As hot as the desert can get during daylight hours, it can get just as cool after the sun goes down. If you want to be ready to relax in the brisk evening air or to stay warm at the gaming tables, pack at least one sweater, sweatshirt or jacket. Las Vegas casinos typically don’t follow a dress code other than asking guests to exercise some discretion and common sense, so don’t worry too much about how your warm wear looks — it just needs to be comfortable.
Accessories
Chargers
Bring at least two spare charging cables for devices like phones, tablets and cameras. Keeping these powered is a great way to ensure you can keep in touch with your party, family and friends along with entertaining yourself while resting in your hotel room. You can also invest in a portable power bank in case you can’t find an outlet when you need one.
A Water Bottle
No matter how you want to spend your time in Vegas, staying hydrated is essential. While testing your luck at the gaming tables, casinos will usually offer you drinks for free. For all other times, it’s wise to carry a refillable water bottle and to research where public refilling points are in town.
Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Las Vegas today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.