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21 Top Vegas Packing List Items for 2022 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

21 Top Vegas Packing List Items for 2022 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring
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Las Vegas is the notorious party playground for adults. Whether you’re going for a getaway, a conference, a bachelor/bachelorette party, or a spontaneous trip with your friends, it’s the perfect destination to let loose.

The key is knowing what to bring, what to wear in Vegas, and what NOT to pack. I also include general FAQs about Las Vegas.

Whether you’ll be spending your time at the exclusive casino pools, air-conditioned shops, fancy acrobatic shows, or night clubs, this packing list has everything you need for a great trip to Sin City.

Lyric playing slots in Vegas!
Lyric playing slots in Vegas!

What to Pack for Vegas – 21 Essentials

  • 1.

    A night out in Las Vegas is a great reason to wear a killer outfit. If you’re going out on the town, go bold with a super sparkly dress or a bold halter jumpsuit like the one pictured. This one is not too expensive, and will have all eyes on you!

  • 2.

    As fun as Vegas is, it also tends to attract certain unsavory types – thieves and pickpockets chief among them. A great way to protect your valuables including your phone, credit cards, ID, wads of cash, and important documents is to use a high-quality neck wallet like the one pictured. This one has clever RFID blocking technology that means e-thieves won’t be able to steal your credit cards or ID from afar so that you have peace of mind to enjoy your time in Vegas!

  • 3.

    If you plan on going to Las Vegas, be prepared that it will probably be very hot. To cool down quickly and find relief fast I would highly suggest bringing a cooling towel. Vegas heat is serious, simply wet the towel and place it around the back of your neck or shoulders for instance cooling. This towel is extremely versatile and can even be used as a headband to keep hair out of your face and cool you down too. Ditch the sweat and enjoy your day longer with this resourceful item.

  • 4.

    Whether you’re out hiking in the Nevada desert or exploring the Vegas Strip, you don’t want to be repeatedly interrupted by having to go back to your lodgings to recharge your phone, camera, or other electronics. This charger holds multiple charges that you can use to power up your devices. It’s also tiny (the size of a tube of lipstick) so it’s very portable and can even be recharging your item while it’s tucked safely in your day bag. You may find that some casinos and event locations have recharging stations, but it costs quite a bit to use them, so having your own portable charger is ideal.

  • 5.

    Packing cubes are well worth the investment – they make packing and finding your items afterward much easier and literally turn stress into tranquility. They’re compact, come in several different sizes, are washable, and will last a lifetime so you can continue to use them on your other trips.

    Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO”.

  • 6.

    It’s hard to overstate just how dressed-up people get in Vegas. Even pool attire tends to be on-point! Choose a swimsuit that makes you feel great, and that’s a step up from your typical day-at-the-beach swimwear.

  • 7.

    A fashionable swimsuit cover-up is a must-have. It’s fun to wear, looks great, and is a sexy way to protect your skin from sun over-exposure too. Plus it’ll give you more comfort and style than wearing a damp towel around while you’re not in the pool!

  • 8.

    While on your Vegas trip, I would highly suggest being close to any form of water as much as possible. From pool parties, hiking to hot springs you’ll be glad you packed a travel towel with you on your vacation. This towel dries quickly, is incredibly soft, and can easily be stored in any backpack or handbag. It’s breathable and great for little trips you might have planned around Vegas or for relaxing by the pool.

  • 9.

    Deserts tend to be hot… no kidding, right? This fan will help you keep cool when needed. Don’t worry about looking touristy – the ratio of tourists to locals in Vegas is already so high that you won’t need to worry about sticking out. Save yourself the discomfort of being overheated with a personal, hand-held cooling fan!

  • 10.

    Packing compactly and efficiently often means scrunching up certain items, including your best party outfit. Irons provided by accommodations are often dirty and their heat levels can be unpredictable, so a hand-held steamer is the best way to avoid ruining your favorite getup. This one is incredibly highly rated and works very well. It’s definitely worth it to bring it!

  • 11.

    Without getting into too much detail about the kinds of shenanigans that most people get up to while in Las Vegas, I’d like to suggest a quality hangover kit. Make a quick pack of your preferred pain killer, Alka Seltzer, electrolytes to help rehydrate you, and activated charcoal to absorb any lingering toxins that may be in your system. It’s a fantastic way to ensure that you’ll still be able to enjoy daytime activities after a night of taking in the nightlife that Vegas has to offer. Many hotels offer these kits at the front desk, but they’ll charge you an arm and a leg for them, so bringing your own is definitely the way to go.

  • 12.

    If you’re unfamiliar with VPNs, now is an excellent time to learn. Whenever you use public WiFi at a hotel, nightclub, restaurant, or any other place, you’re putting all of your data at risk if it’s not shielded via encryption. A VPN adds a layer of encryption for your internet data to prevent hackers from accessing your personal or financial information! Don’t learn the hard way (like I did on a recent trip) how crucial this technology is.

    Another handy feature of VPNs is that in countries or locations where the internet is censored, it can act as a “key” to unlock your access. Plus it’s very affordable and as easy to use as touching a button on your device!

  • 13.

    A day bag is a good idea for carrying the items (camera, water bottle, sunglasses, wallet, etc.) that you need with you during the day. As a bonus, you’ll also have a handy bag that can hold any of the purchases you make while you’re out! With as much fantastic shopping as there is in Vegas, you’re sure to bring home a few souvenirs, and you’ll need a place to carry them until you get back to your accommodations.

  • 14.

    Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Not to sound too much like your mom, here, but it really cannot be stressed enough. Vegas is in the middle of a desert, and the heat from the sun is only magnified by all of the reflective surfaces all around the Strip. Pair these elements with the fact that most people indulge in dehydrating activities while in Vegas, and it’s a recipe for potentially dangerous health issues. Bring a water bottle with you to help you stay on top of the matter, and to help you save on purchasing bottled drinks while you’re out! It’s a great money-saver.

  • 15.

    Who would have thought that hand sanitizer is the best accessory of 2021. From leaving my house to just simple errands I run in everyday life, hand sanitizer is always in my bag. This small bottle fits in bags, smells great, and kills germs, what more could you ask for. Sometimes the traditional method of cleaning your hands isn’t readily available, but feel fresh and clean with a spritz of this. No need to worry about germs when you have hand sanitizer with you.

  • 16.

    You’ll be walking – a LOT. Cabs are expensive in Vegas, so you’ll want to walk anywhere you can. Plus, walking is the best way to see various street performers and to do window-shopping. These are super comfortable and cute as well.

  • 17.

    You’re going to bring along a lot of standard toiletries and styling items, and I doubt you’ll want to pack and unpack all of those things every single time you use them. The best way to make toiletry packing and use as efficiently as possible is to bring a hanging toiletry bag. It will give you easy, shelf-like access to your products without you having to pack and unpack every item just to get to the one you need.

  • 18.

    The combination of sun, alcohol, smoke from various sources, dry air, and dust from the surrounding desert can really take a toll on your face. This spray is a great soother and will help you maintain the health of your delicate facial skin while you’re in Vegas. Plus, it smells heavenly.

  • 19.

    Trust me, Vegas is noisy ALL THE TIME. There’s a reason it’s called “The City That Never Sleeps.” It’s a good idea to bring a white noise machine to use in your room while you sleep. It may also be advisable to bring a face mask to help shut out the bright lights from outside.

  • 20.

    Travel Insurance is a no-brainer. Anything can happen in Vegas, and if something bad happens you really don’t want to be stuck footing the bill for whatever the emergency may be. We use TravelInsurance.com which makes it easy to compare policies. Travel insurance will replace lost or stolen items and will pay for hotel rooms and plane flights if yours get canceled. Things can always go wrong, and for a tiny fraction of your trip cost, travel insurance will take care of you. Many policies also have “cancel for any reason” which allows you to get a refund if you change your mind!

  • 21.

    You’ll be walking a lot in Vegas. There’s so much excitement to explore from the Strip to all of the magnificent hotels. Keep your feet comfortable and blister-free with an anti-blister balm. Considering how hot it can get in Vegas, you don’t want to have sweaty chaffing feet. This anti-blister balm soothes dry feet and helps prevent blisters. From your most comfortable sneakers to nice but not-so-comfortable dress shoes, an anti-blister balm will help you stay comfortably on your feet all day as you explore Vegas.

What to Wear in Las Vegas

Las Vegas holds a spot on the bucket lists of party-seekers from all over the world. On your trip to Sin City, you may find yourself relaxing at exclusive pool parties, watching thrilling circus shows, dining at world-class restaurants, and dancing at pulsing nightclubs.

Make sure you pack for every occasion – think swimsuits, trendy daytime outfits, and some nicer clothes to wear out at electro concerts. If that’s not your scene, Las Vegas has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor adventures and day trips – so bring some athletic clothes! Bolder is better in Las Vegas, so go for bright colors and statement accessories.

vegas-party
What should WOMEN wear in Las Vegas? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

For most ladies who come to Las Vegas for a weekend, the standard nighttime attire is a tight, short, possibly sequined dress. Bring one of these if you’d like to fit in with the crowd, or opt for a more adventure-friendly romper or jumpsuit. Everybody will be dressed in flashy, sometimes revealing clothing, so don’t worry too much about modesty. During the day, you are likely to end up at a brunch with bottomless mimosas, or at a fancy hotel pool (or pool party!). Bring casual but cute daytime outfits, like high-waisted shorts and a tank top or bodysuit. Make sure to bring a few swimsuits as well.

What should MEN wear in Las Vegas? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

It’s time to break out the v-necks, pastel trousers, and Hawaiian shirts. For nighttime, anything goes, but I would recommend bringing some black slacks, nice button-down shirts, dress shoes, and a tie. For daytime, bring swim trunks, shorts, and a few v-necks or tank tops. Make sure you bring a blazer or jacket if you are planning on dining at any of the five-star restaurants or getting into any clubs.

Packing for the Seasons in Vegas

WINTER – December & January:

Believe it or not, Las Vegas can get fairly cold in the winter. If you are visiting during this time, make sure that you bring jeans and a jacket, and possibly an umbrella or rain jacket. Winter gets the most rainfall of any season during the year in Vegas!

SPRING – February, March & April:

Spring is definitely one of the best times of the year to visit Las Vegas. The temperatures are cooler than in summer, but you still get plenty of sunshine. Pack what you would pack for summer, plus a light jacket and close-toed shoes.

vegas-swimming-pool

SUMMER – May, June, July, August, September:

Summer in Las Vegas can get stiflingly hot. This calls for cut-off shorts and tank tops, sundresses, and swimsuits. Pack all of the above, plus airy scarves, sturdy sandals, breezy tops, and comfortable cotton shorts.

FALL – October & November:

Fall is another popular time to visit Las Vegas. The heat of the summer has passed, but you still have plenty of daylight hours and a very slim chance of rain! Think about bringing layers. Pack a few sweaters or jackets that can be layered on top of each other. A cute beanie and some heeled booties are a good idea.

vegas-skyline-summer
How to dress for activities in Vegas – (Click to expand)

Shows & Concerts – A night out in Las Vegas may mean heading to a concert or circus show! Going out to an event is a great excuse to dress glamorously and wear a killer outfit. You can go bold with a super sparkly dress or jumpsuit, or keep it classy with a little black dress. For men, chic slacks and button-downs are key.

Sightseeing – Maybe you’re headed to Belaggio Gallery of Fine Art, or the iconic Madame Tussauds wax museum, or possibly the Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck to catch a great view of the city. When you’re out sightseeing for the day, bring comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes. Shorts and tank tops are great, as well as comfortable sandals and a pair of sunglasses!

Clubs – The rule of thumb for dressing at Las Vegas clubs is to be stylish and sleek. Flashy and gaudy is okay, too. For women, wear a pair of comfortable heels, and whatever dress or sparkly outfit your heart desires. For men, wear dress shoes, nice pants, button-downs, and maybe even a jacket, depending on where you’re going.

Restaurants – Las Vegas is known around the world for its high-class and varied restaurant scene. Don’t be afraid to dress to the nines if you’re headed somewhere nice. If you’re going to a chilled-out brunch by the pool or patio of your hotel, jeans, a t-shirt, and a sunhat is perfectly fine.

Outdoor activities – If you have any outdoor activities or tours planned during your Vegas trip, make sure you pack accordingly. For tours of the Grand Canyon, or the Hoover Dam, bring comfortable walking or hiking shoes, and workout attire. If you are doing a cruise on Lake Mead, a swimsuit and sleek coverup are key. It may be a good idea to bring some athletic clothes, in case you want to zipline down the strip or end up at SkyZone Trampoline Park.

What NOT to take to Las Vegas

  • 1.Hair Dryer

    Almost every hotel and lodging has one!

  • 2.Hula Hoops
  • 3.Megaphones
  • 4.Vuvuzelas
  • 5.Pets
  • 6.Bath Salts
  • 7.Flammables
  • 8.Firearms
  • 9.Sharp objects
  • 10.Liquids
  • 11.Household tools
  • 12.Camping equipment
  • 13.Medical tools
  • 14.Various miscellaneous items
What clothing should I NOT wear in Las Vegas? – (Click to expand)
To be totally honest, you cannot go wrong with what you wear in Las Vegas. No matter what you wear, there will always be someone on the strip who is dressed more outrageously than you. Leave the warm winter jackets and ugg boots at home, since temperatures remain fairly mild year-round. Cast your worries aside and enjoy Sin City!

FAQs about my Vegas trip

  • 1. How can I plan the ultimate girls’ getaway weekend in Vegas?

    Take a look at Skyscanner.com and set an alert for cheap flights to Las Vegas! If you’re road-tripping, use the Roadtrippers app to find awesome hidden gems off the beaten path. Just make sure you leave room for spontaneity when possible – there are all kinds of things to do and discover in Las Vegas! There are many things that many women tend to want to do in Vegas that men often have less desire to do, such as poolside lounging, spa days, shopping on the Strip, and fabulous brunches galore. If you can, try to focus on the activities you won’t get the chance to do on a less female-specific trip.

    How can I plan the ultimate girls’ getaway weekend in Vegas?

  • 2. What kinds of things are there to do in Las Vegas during the day?

    Vegas is well known for its nightlife – casinos, clubs, bars, and shows – but it also offers a wide array of things to explore during the day. The city if in the middle of an incredibly beautiful desert, which is pretty foreign to many people.

    Check out options for canyon tours and day hikes if you feel like being active! If not, look for great deals on spa visits or opt for a poolside lounge day at your hotel. Vegas also has some great restaurants to keep you well satisfied.

    What kinds of things are there to do in Las Vegas during the day?

  • 3. Is Las Vegas a safe place for women and men traveling solo?

    Yes! Vegas may be Sin City, but it’s not as dangerous as it sounds. This is, primarily, because there are so many private security teams along the Strip. They protect hotels, casinos, clubs, and anyone else who can afford to hire them to keep theft and acts of crime or sleaze at bay. Pair this with an on-point police force, and Vegas is a fairly tight ship.

    Now, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take precautions! There are still pickpockets and scammers to be aware of, not to mention the usual dangers posed to women in bars and when drinking. Women should guard their drinks closely and never leave them unattended – the same goes for purses. Everyone should keep their valuables secured on their person, and avoid flashing any expensive jewelry or large winnings (if they happen to score at a casino!).

    Is Las Vegas a safe place for women and men traveling solo?

  • 4. How do I keep my face from breaking out when I travel?

    Bring everything you normally use on your skin with you on your trip and try to stick to your usual routine of cleaning and treating blemishes if possible. Dry airplane air, an unfamiliar climate in Vegas – the desert – and all of the eating and drinking most people do while they’re in Sin City can take a toll on your skin if you’re not cautious. Be sure to bring a great facial toning and hydrating spray, and maybe even a face mask or two!

  • 5. How can I avoid overpacking for my Vegas trip?

    Before you commit to bringing anything, make a list of what activities you’ll be doing throughout the whole trip. Plan out each day’s outfit, and try to stick to items that can be re-worn and repurposed.

    For example, a simple black dress that you can wear during the day with sandals can also be dressed up for going out at night by adding some lipstick and cute jewelry. By bringing multipurpose clothing items (a sort of capsule wardrobe), you can pack much lighter.

    How can I avoid overpacking for my Vegas trip?

  • 6. How do I choose the right bag to bring with me to Vegas?

    It’s all about personal preference! A rolling suitcase is always a good option if you want to save yourself shoulder or back pain. Another thing to think about is how much you’ll be needing to carry around with you during the day. If you’ll be doing active things like hiking, bring a travel daypack that’s lightweight and can be compacted down into a very small size when you don’t need it.

  • 7. What is the rule for carrying on liquids on a plane?

    According to the current TSA regulations, you are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.

  • 8. What counts as liquids?

    Any liquid, aerosol, gel, cream, or paste. This includes contact solution, mascara, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, etc. Keeping your liquids in a separate zip lock bag will make the security process go so much more quickly.

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