Palm Springs, CA is nothing if not unique. This desert city has had a long association with the rich and famous of Hollywood and continues to prove as a great escape from the hustle and bustle of more metropolitan cities such as Los Angeles.
Its neighboring areas are equally as unique and quirky and are definitely worth paying a visit if you’re in the desert area. If you can manage to tear yourself away from sunbathing by the pool for a day or two, you’ll find a world of eccentric art, spectacular hiking trails, and unique architecture in the deserts of Southern California.
This round-up of things to do, what to see, and what to eat are centralized in Palm Springs. Looking for additional things to do in the surrounding Palm Springs area? Check out this post here.
There’s so much to see and do here, so it’ll definitely be tough to pack everything into a weekend trip. No matter what you decide to go with, all of the picks below, are great choices for your first (or second or tenth) visit to Palm Springs.
This Palm Springs city guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your best vacation, with details on things to do to the best restaurants, shopping, and where to stay in the area.
So read up and take notes on how to best experience what Palm Springs, CA has to offer!
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Table of Contents
BEST TIME TO VISIT PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
The best time to visit Palm Springs is between January to April and October to December. This is when the weather is the most pleasant. During January to March, the weather is at its very best with lots of sunshine and very pleasant average temperatures ranging between 71-78 degrees F (or 22 to 27 degrees celsius).
Given the near-perfect weather, these months are some of the busiest times of the year to visit. Yep, surprisingly, the fall and winter months are prime time in the desert!
You would think summers in Palm Springs would be nice, but unless you absolutely love the heat, we wouldn’t recommend visiting in the summertime. Daily highs regularly reach the triple digits!
With heat like that, you’ll have to lie by a pool or stay indoors with air-conditioning for almost the entire day.
HOW TO GET TO PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
FLY INTO PSP
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is located just minutes from downtown Palm Springs and the Convention Center. Flying to PSP is going to be your most convenient option.
FLY INTO OTHER NEARBY AIRPORTS
- ONT: Ontario International Airport (1 hour 15 minute drive)
- SNA: John Wayne Airport – Orange County (1 hour 30 minute drive)
- LAX: Los Angeles Internation Airport (2 hour drive)
- SAN: San Diego International Airport (2 hour 15 minute drive)
- LAS: Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (4-hour drive)
- PHX: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (4-hour drive)
Plane tickets may vary by airport, so check flights for multiple destination cities to find the one that works best for you. From these various airports, simply rent a car and be on your merry way!
DRIVING FROM NEARBY CITIES
- From Los Angeles, CA – 107 miles to Palm Springs (2 hours by car)
- From Anaheim, CA – 90 miles to Palm Springs (1 hour 45 minutes by car)
- From San Diego, CA – 140 miles to Palm Springs (2 hours, 10 minutes by car)
- From Las Vegas, NV – 230 miles to Palm Springs (4 hours by car)
- From Phoenix, AZ – 270 miles to Palm Springs (4 hours by car)
- From San Francisco, CA – 486 miles to Palm Springs (7 hours, 30 minutes by car)
Wondering where to stop on the way in or out of Palm Springs, CA? This post should be a good jumping-off point!
GETTING AROUND PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
Although downtown Palm Springs is very pedestrian-friendly, you will need a car to reach many of the area’s points of interest. As such, the best way to get around Palm Springs is by car.
CAR / RENTAL CAR
If you’re flying directly into Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), you can rent a car once you land at the airport. Expect to pay roughly $40 to $50 per day for standard vehicles.
Tip: To avoid higher rental car prices, be sure to book your car ahead of time. If you’re booking early enough, shop around and check for rental companies offering seasonal promotions.
Need a rental car for your trip? To find cheap rental cars, I recommend using Rentalcars.com. Their search tool is one of the best I’ve found!
ON FOOT
Downtown Palm Springs, particularly along Palm Canyon Drive, is filled with good restaurants and shops to keep you busy for at least a day or two.
However, the fun of the Palm Springs area is being able to drive through the vast desert, explore the outskirts of town, or even go on a hike or two! For anything outside of downtown, you will need some form of transportation on wheels.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
You can also take the bus to reach certain destinations throughout the city and beyond, or you can call a taxi or take Uber/Lyft.
The SunLine Transit Agency operates a bus that runs throughout Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. You can pay for a one-time fare, a day pass, or a 10-ride pass. Passes are sold online.
Two of the best routes for travelers are the green line (Route 1) or the orange line (Route 4). The green line travels throughout downtown Palm Springs, then to nearby towns like Cathedral City, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Indio, and Coachella. The orange line will take you throughout downtown Palm Springs and Palm Desert.
Do note that the bus system is known to be slow, and the hours of operation are limited, from about 5 am to 11 pm with reduced hours for select routes on weekends. Buses generally only run every 20 or 40 minutes, so if you’re going to be in a rush to get somewhere, the bus may not be your best option.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS
It’s got everything you could ask for in a downtown area– from fine dining and casual eateries to upscale shopping and small boutique shops, it’s all available here! Allocate at least two hours to stroll around and explore the whole downtown area.
Aim to start in the heart of the area, Palm Canyon Drive, where you’ll find the majority of clothing shops, art galleries, restaurants, candy stores and much more. If you have more time, check out the Uptown area, also located on Palm Canyon Drive, where you’ll find some additional boutiques and eateries.
PALM SPRINGS VILLAGEFEST
If you’re in town on a Thursday evening, be sure to check out the Palm Springs VillageFest event. This is essentially Palm Springs’ lively weekly street fair, which boasts over 180 vendors and is visited by many locals and tourists alike. VillageFest is a super fun event filled with great food vendors, live entertainment, artisanal shopping booths, and handmade crafts.
It is located on Palm Canyon Drive, between Indian Canyon Drive and Belardo Road.
Note: Check their website for the most up-to-date info.
PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY
There is no better way to experience the picturesque desert terrain than with a bird’s eye view of Palm Springs’ natural scenery.
This aerial tramway transports visitors up Chino Canyon in the world’s largest rotating tramcar. The 10-minute ride takes you over 2.5 miles along Chino Canyon in Mt. San Jacinto State Park, giving you great views of the mountains, vistas, and the wilderness below.
During your journey, the tram cars will rotate slowly, giving you surreal 360 views of the area. Once you reach the Mountain Station at an elevation of 8,516 feet, you can enjoy two restaurants, observation decks, a natural history museum, and over 50 miles of hiking trails.
There are even ‘ride and dine’ packages that allow you to enjoy a meal at the canyon’s summit.
PALM SPRINGS ART MUSEUM
Stop by downtown Palm Springs to visit the local art museum. There are great collections of work by western, contemporary, and glass artists as well as rotating exhibitions from internationally acclaimed artists.
Besides enjoying the art, they also run art classes and workshops for kids and adults. It also offers a range of theatrical and musical performances in its Annenberg Theater.
Local Tip: The museum is free every Thursday from 4-8PM and every second Sunday. Why not pair it with your Thursday night at Palm Springs Village Fest?
PALM SPRINGS AIR MUSEUM
This top-rated, world-renowned museum gives visitors an up-close look at the legendary fighters and bombers of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. If you’re a history buff, make sure to stop by the Palm Springs Air Museum. It has one of the world’s largest collections of WWII planes, as well as aircrafts from the Korean and Vietnam wars.
No joke, these planes look super cool! There are three exhibit hangars, a gift shop, theater, and an education center.
PALM SPRINGS ARCHITECTURE TOUR
Palm Springs is known for its iconic mid-century modern architecture, designed by famous architects such as Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and William Krisel. The city’s unique blend of desert landscape and modern design has made it a mecca for architecture enthusiasts from around the world.
Visitors who want to soak in all the architectural goodness can take a self-guided drive through the city to see the landmarks or take a guided architecture tour of Palm Springs.
While a self-guided drive will allow you to see the houses with your own eyes, the magic of these houses really lies in the stories behind them — which is why we recommend the guided tours!
The tours offer a fascinating insight into the city’s architectural heritage, with stops at iconic buildings such as the Kaufmann House, the Tramway Gas Station, and the Parker Palm Springs.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply appreciate good design, a tour of Palm Springs’ mid-century modern architecture is a must-do.
HAVE A SPA DAY
Palm Springs is a super popular weekend destination for girls’ trips, especially those who are looking for some rest and relaxation! As such, Palm Springs is known for its world-class spas, with a range of treatments and services to help visitors relax and unwind.
Some of the best hotels with spas in Palm Springs include The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage, JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, and The Parker Palm Springs.
These hotels offer a range of spa services, from massages and facials to body treatments and salon services, making it easy to indulge in some much-needed pampering during your stay in Palm Springs.
RENT A BIKE AND EXPLORE
As mentioned above, Palm Springs is known for its colorful neighborhoods full of bright architecture, so what better way to see it all than with a bike tour?
If driving around is not your thing, I highly recommend renting bikes from a local bike rental company and spending a few hours cruising around the city checking out the historic houses.
Don’t know where to go? Check out Trip Savvy’s self-guided tour.
AGUA CALIENTE CASINO
Looking for some Las Vegas-like activities? Look no further than the Palm Springs area! From slot machines and table games to live entertainment and shows, each casino property promises entertainment beyond gambling.
If you’re looking for buffets or fine dining (such as steakhouses), casinos can be a good option. Agua Caliente is located in downtown Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, and Cathedral City. Other great casino options exist, such as Morongo Casino Resort & Spa and Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
Local Tip: Some casinos have midweek specials and even Sunday specials. One of the casinos I visited offered free play credit just for dining in their steakhouse. Check out the casino websites for promotions before picking the one to visit and see if you can take advantage of some deals!
RUDDY’S GENERAL STORE MUSEUM
Blast from the past alert! Jim Ruddy’s General Store Museum takes you back in time to the good ol’ 1930’s. The museum showcases pristine products from the ’30s in their original boxes and tins. Among the 6,000-plus items to be found here include groceries, tobacco, hardware, clothing, medicines, biscuits, beauty aids and soaps.
Note: It’s only $1 to get in! Also note the museum is open from September to May, which coincides with the cooler months of the year in Palm Springs.
BACKSTREET ART DISTRICT
Stroll through a dozen artist-owned galleries and studios at the Arts District and be sure to check out the art walks, held the first Wednesday of every month from 6-9 p.m.
They have an amazing assortment of original art for all tastes and budgets – paintings, ceramics, photography, mixed media, jewelry, lithography and more.
TAKE A HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE OVER THE DESERT
A hot air balloon ride is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the stunning beauty of the desert landscape.
A number of operators do hot-air balloon rides in the Coachella Valley, primarily in the high season of (November through May), with sunrise and sunset being the most popular times of the day for tours.
Fantasy Balloon Flights, Balloons Above, and HavNFun Hot Air Balloons all use FAA-certified pilots and embrace the centuries-old tradition of offering up some sparkling wine after your voyage!
ANTIQUE GALLERIES OF PALM SPRINGS
Around Palm Springs’ bustling arts district, you’ll find Antique Galleries of Palm Springs. If you’re into vintage/antique pieces or whimsical art and furniture pieces, this is the place for you. There is a vast collection of art and vintage stuff here, including appliances, film projectors, retro signs and furniture, pinball machines, and fine china.
The venue is divided into separate spaces, each curated by different artists and antique sellers from the area. This is unquestionably one of the city’s most unique retail venues– you never know what you’ll find.
MOORTEN BOTANICAL GARDEN
Moorten’s is a botanical garden that’s like no other. This is a desert garden, “cactarium”, and nursery all in one, comprising of thousands of beautiful succulents and desert plants.
For a small entry fee, you can enjoy a part of your day strolling through this desert botanical garden and its scenic nature trails, which houses roughly 3000 cacti from the USA, Latin America, and Africa.
The garden also houses several desert tortoises so come catch a glimpse of these desert creatures up close!
COVERED WAGON ADVENTURE AND BBQ
Where else can you take a wagon tour pulled by mules into the desert outback of California? Nowhere but here in the desert! This is such a unique desert tour, mixing both western charm as well as showcasing the natural flora and fauna of the Colorado Sonoran Desert.
With a naturalist leading your way, you’ll explore the vast landscapes of the Coachella Valley before returning to the ranch for even more entertainment.
Upon completion of the walk, there will be a live old-time western performance, easy barn dance (optional), corn-hole and horseshoes, and a chuck-wagon style BBQ. A typical menu can consist of: Slow Cooked Brisket, Smoked Chicken, Fresh Coleslaw, Cowboy Beans, Fresh Breads, and Seasonal Pie with Whipped Cream.
Finally, enjoy the sunset, campfire, and the bright stars in the sky!
CRUISE THE CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET
Start your morning with a stroll among fruits, vegetables, and baked goods!
Discover the freshest and best locally grown produce every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm. During October through May, the market is outdoors at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. In warmer months (June through Sept) it moves indoors to the Palm Springs Pavilion (401 S. Pavilion Way), just a couple of blocks away.
The market features farm fresh fruits and vegetables and artisan food products. Other items include such things as herbs, cheese, pastries, honey, nuts, olive oil, and fresh-cut flowers.
GO ON A CELEBRITY HOME GRAND TOUR
Historically, Palm Springs has been known as one of California’s most exclusive destinations. Naturally so, many celebrities have taken residence here, including Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and Leonardo DiCaprio.
What better way to learn about this pop culture history than on a grand tour of Palm Springs celebrity homes? Palm Springs homes are very accessible, so the bus can actually drive right up to the front door (unlike celebrity tours in LA).
The tour doesn’t follow the exact route each time, so there’s some variety in the homes you may see, and the guide even takes requests.
Book the Palm Springs Celebrity 2.5-Hour Grand Tour here.
DO AN ESCAPE ROOM
Escape rooms are popping up everywhere because they are just so darn fun for people of all ages. Palm Springs is no different! If you’re looking for a heart-thumping indoor activity to do with your friends or family, look no further than a timed escape room.
Over the course of an hour or so, you’ll work together to solve puzzles, crack riddles, and ultimately escape the room!
Check out a few of the most popular escape rooms in Palm Springs here.
ROBOLIGHTS DISPLAY
The kitschy art installation known as Robolights is the work of Kenny Irwin Jr. who created the Christmas-themed light show 30 years ago at his home. Since then, it has grown into a prominent year-round tourist attraction, now located at an outdoor sculpture park in Palm Spring’s Movie Colony East neighborhood.
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind attraction featuring towering robots and millions of lights, all constructed from discarded electronics.
SAN GORGONIO PASS WINDFARM
Ever seen the stretch of land covered in thousands of windmills? Yep, that’s The San Gorgonio Pass Wind Farm, located in one of the windiest parts of California.
Why are they here, you might wonder? Well, the turbines produce enough electricity to power all of the Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley and you’ll see them as you drive around the region.
If you opt for a 2-hour windill farm tour, you can get an up-close look at how these windmills work as well as learn about the history of the renewable energy industry.
HIKE TO THE FAN PALM OASIS
You can’t think of California without also thinking about palm trees. They are literally everywhere in the Palm Springs area. But the best place to see the Desert Fan Palm, the largest native palm in the United States, is at Palm Canyon–the world’s largest Fan Palm oasis.
In this 15-mile long section of Indian Canyons, you will find an abundance of Fan Palms. This place is gorgeous and it’s such a sight to see. (I mean, you’re in the desert, so you’d expect to see nothing but dust and dirt, right? Wrong!)
Among the sea of green trees surrounding you, you can picnic near the stream, take a hike on the trails, and learn more about the sacredness of this area to the Cahuilla Indians. The canyons are fantastic for exploring on foot or on a horseback.
Before or after your visit, head to the Trading Post in Palm Canyon for maps, food, drinks, and Native American handicrafts!
COACHELLA VALLEY PRESERVE
Located in Thousand Palms east of Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley Preserve is a protected area filled with great hiking trails. Formed by a system of sand dunes, this 20,000-acre sanctuary is home to several species of rare wildlife and a number of palm oases.
Even during peak hotness from June to September, the beautiful palm trees offer a canopy of shade. In addition to hiking trails, there are also horseback riding trails. Guided hikes are available from October to March.
SAN ANDREAS FAULT JEEP TOUR
Learn about California’s geology and desert wilderness on a half-day Jeep tour to the San Andreas Fault. Drive through the Coachella Valley to the fault zone while hearing from your guide about native plant and animal life, local history, the Salton Sea, and earthquakes.
Really, there are so many interesting facts to learn about the California desert so you definitely won’t be bored on this excursion!
Depending on your preference, you can take a nature walk in the desert or stay in the vehicle. You’ll also stop by a date farm where you can try their signature date milkshake (it’s delicious, so you need to try it).
This tour includes your expert guide, transportation, and light refreshments.
THE LIVING DESERT ZOO AND GARDENS
If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll be happy to know you won’t need to drive too far on your Palm Springs road trip to reach something they will love.
The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens in Palm Desert is a family-friendly zoo specializing in the deserts of the world. You can feed giraffes, pet goats, and see a variety of animals such as mountain lions, zebras, leopards, hyenas, and cheetahs roaming in their natural habitat (as opposed to caged up).
If you don’t have time to visit the actual desert surrounding Palm Springs, then a trip to this zoo and botanical garden is the next best thing in getting your desert experience.
During your time here, you can expect to experience live animal encounter shows, peaceful gardens, various hiking trails, and tram rides. They also have private safari tours!
ATTEND THE PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
If you happen to be planning a trip to Palm Springs in the winter, see if you can coincide it with the International Film Festival!
The Palm Springs International Film Festival is a world-renowned event that takes place every January, attracting filmmakers and celebrities from around the world. The festival features screenings of the latest and greatest films, as well as Q&A sessions with directors and actors, making it a must-attend event for film lovers!
With over 200 films from over 60 countries, the festival offers something to appeal to every film aficionado, from documentaries to feature films and even short films too.
WHERE TO EAT IN PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
FARM
The experience at Farm is like being transported to the South of France. As soon as you enter, you will be wowed by their garden patio seating, the beautiful gardens, and impeccable floral landscaping.
The next wow factor: their incredibly authentic menu comprising of the freshest local ingredients. We got the baked brie with date jam and it was to die for. The omelets and french toast with fruits were also great choices.
GRAND CENTRAL
Grand Central is a local favorite and is a great option for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They serve up fresh California cuisine and have a pretty awesome drink selection as well.
I’m all about brunching on vacation, and I’d say this is probably one of the best breakfast/brunch options in Palm Springs (try their signature Savory French Toast).
BILL’S PIZZA
If you love NY-style pizza like I do, you will love Bill’s Pizza. Why? Their crust is sourdough based, made from scratch in-house. This makes for the perfect crust, and I’m pretty picky about my pizza crusts.
They have many specialty pizzas on the menu and also allow the option to build your own pizza with its extensive list of ingredients. What makes this spot even greater– the lively atmosphere with its indoor and outdoor seating.
LAPPERT’S GOURMET ICE CREAM
Treat yourself to ice cream after your lunch or dinner. There are plenty of ice cream options in Palm Springs, but Lappert’s is the best of the best (and it comes straight from Hawaii)! Their iconic Hawaiian flavors include Kauai Pie, Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel, Caramel Coconut Macadamia Nut, Kona Coffee, Banana Cream Pie, Rum Raisin, and Date Casablanca.
There are 48 flavors to choose from daily, as well as island and local treats including Hawaiian shave ice, banana split, chocolate-covered bananas, and one of the best date shakes in the area.
TONGA HUT
Located above NYPD Pizzeria on North Palm Canyon Drive is Tonga Hut, your local tiki bar! Tonga Hut’s ambiance is so festive with its colorful and vibrant decorations displayed at every turn.
The menu boasts a wide variety of creative concoctions, so be sure to try a few on your visit. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong.
They also have awesome food, including authentic pupu platters served on real wooden carved platters. I also hear the owners are great!
WHERE TO STAY IN PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN PALM SPRINGS ($-$$)
Skylark Hotel ($)
Skylark Hotel is a trendy-yet-retro and affordable boutique hotel that offers a unique blend of style and comfort. The hotel features a chic and modern design, with bright colors, retro furnishings, and minimalist design!
The hotel is popular for its range of amenities, including a heated pool, hot tub, and barbecue area, as well as its affordable rates, making it the perfect place for budget-conscious travelers looking for a stylish and comfortable stay in Palm Springs.
Dive Palm Springs ($$)
Dive Palm Springs is a cute little boutique hotel that offers a unique blend of retro charm and modern luxury. The hotel features a stunning mid-century modern design, with colorful accents, vintage furnishings, and fun artwork!
BEST SPLURGE HOTELS IN PALM SPRINGS ($$$)
Drift Palm Springs ($$$)
Drift Palm Springs is a wonderfully luxurious hotel that will almost transport you to the tropical shores of Mexico. Or perhaps to Todos Santos. The hotel features natural earth-tone colors, perfect for those who like a more minimalist feel. The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, with luxurious bedding, designer toiletries, and epic views of the surrounding mountains.
If you’re looking for simple yet luxurious, we highly recommend booking a couple nights at Drift Palm Springs to indulge in the ultimate Palm Springs experience!
THE WESTCOTT ($$$)
The Westcott is a luxurious and trendy boutique hotel that offers a unique blend of sophistication and comfort! Alongside its tasteful mid-century modern design, the hotel is also popular for its range of amenities, including a heated pool, hot tub, and outdoor fire pit, as well as its central location, which is just steps away from the vibrant downtown area!
The Avalon ($$$)
The Avalon Palm Springs is a luxurious hotel that exudes elegance and sophistication. We’re talking Spanish-style design, with lush gardens, tranquil courtyards, and mountain views!
The rooms are spacious and come with luxurious bedding, designer toiletries, and high-end amenities.
The hotel also features a range of world-class amenities, including a full-service spa, three swimming pools, and a gourmet restaurant, making it the perfect place to indulge in the ultimate Palm Springs experience.
MAP OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
ESSENTIAL PACKING LIST: PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
- Smartphone UV Sanitizer and Charger | Our phones gather all the grime and bacteria we touch throughout the day, and then they are stored in warm, dark places like purses and pockets, which make for great breeding grounds for bacteria to grow. They are the third hand we never wash, but should! Using a UV sanitizer such as PhoneSoap on a regular basis will help keep germs and illness at bay.
- First Aid Kit | It’s always good to carry a first aid kit around with you when traveling. Road trips make it easier to do this since all you need to do is toss it in the trunk!
- Hiking Boots | If you plan on hiking, bring well broken-in boots with good ankle support and good traction. My all-time favorites are the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Boots. They’re one of the lightest boots in its class, very durable, and provide out-of-the-box comfort, which is extremely important if you want to prevent blisters from the start.
- Hiking Socks | If hiking, make sure you have a good pair of cushioned wool hiking socks. For extra toe protection and to prevent blisters from developing from skin-to-skin contact, go with a pair of Injinji toe socks.
- Puffy Jacket | If you’re traveling in the fall or wintertime, you’re going to need layers in the California desert, which tends to get pretty cool nights. You have a lot of options here, but I personally have the North Face Thermoball, and it’s kept me warm throughout my many years of adventuring!
- Daypack | I’m a fan of the Osprey Daylite Daypack. Even when I’m not hiking! It has ample room for all the snacks and water you’ll need, as well as for your camera and the safety essentials for the hike.
- Sunhat | Sun protection is key for any California destination, but especially in the desert.
- Hand Sanitizer | Hand sanitizer gel or wipes are a must any time you’re going to be in contact with surfaces many other people have touched. Never leave your hotel room without it! And if you do happen to forget it, remember to wash your hands often, especially before eating or touching your face.
- Body Wipes / Feminine Wipes | Feeling a bit gross after a hike or bike ride but don’t have the time to shower right in that instant? Just whip out one of these body wipes for a quick refresher. The feminine wipes I like are infused with cucumber and aloe. Trust me, you will feel and smell so much better. Always good to have a few handy in your travel bag.
- Portable Power Bank | You’re probably going to be out all day, snapping away taking pictures… the last thing you want is to be driving along with no phone battery! A portable power bank is a must-have, and Anker’s ultra-light, ultra-portable power bank is tried and true by so many travelers! I never embark on a day of exploration without it.
- Soft Hydration Flask | Stay hydrated throughout the day with a water bottle that can go anywhere with you—and fold up when not in use. I love the packability of these bottles!
- Cooling towel or neck fan | If you’re traveling during the summer months, I implore you to bring a Chill Pal cooling towel or hands-free neck fan to stay cool. It will save your life from the heat and make exploring the outdoors more bearable.
- Portable Cooler | Coolers are a must for any road trip, but especially in the California desert. How else are you going to keep your drinks and sandwiches cool for your picnic/hike? A portable hard cooler will allow you to pack picnic lunches, bring cheese and jams, and more. If you’re looking for the best cooler technology out there, the Yeti Portable Cooler is top of the line, with ColdCell Insulation that offers superior cold-holding compared to other soft coolers.
Want more Southern California travel tips? Read More:
The Perfect California Desert Weekend Trip – Palm Springs and Surrounding Desert Area
Los Angeles To Las Vegas Road Trip: 25+ Awesome Stops (ROUTE 66)
Your Guide To The Perfect Ojai Trip: 15 Best Things To Do In Ojai, California
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