Whoohoo! So you’ve got a trip to Las Vegas coming up. Wondering what to pack for Las Vegas, but don’t know exactly where to start?
Welcome to the only Vegas packing guide you’ll need! Having traveled to Las Vegas more than twenty times now (more times than I can count, really), I know a thing or two about packing for Vegas trips with max efficiency.
Now, this is not going to be a style guide to help you understand what trendy clothes to buy, but rather a guide to ensure you have everything you need to travel smarter, feel comfortable, and save money.
Here’s my ultimate Las Vegas packing list to ensure you have everything you’ll need for a perfect time. Get ready to pack like a pro!
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Table of Contents
LAS VEGAS: IN A NUTSHELL
Here’s a quick overview of all the useful info you need to plan an awesome trip!
- When To Go: Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant enough for walking outside. Summers are hot, but the pool parties are poppin’!
- Where To Stay:
- Park MGM – adorable, affordable, and puts you right on The Strip!
- Mandalay Bay – If you’re looking for pool time, stay here. They’ve got the best of the best pool complex in all of Las Vegas!
- The Venitian or The Palazzo (they are sister hotels) – huge rooms in a 5-star resort, this is by far my favorite place to stay when visiting Vegas with larger groups.
- Nearest Airport: Las Vegas is McCarran International Airport (LAS)
- How to Get Around: The easiest way to get around Las Vegas is by car, but there are also taxis, buses, and ride-sharing services available. Walking is also a popular option, especially on the Strip. We recommend using Rentalcars.com to find the best rental car deal.
- Must-Do’s: Visit the iconic casinos and themed resorts on the Strip, eat a buffet at a resort, catch a live show / concert, check out the Neon Museum off the Strip, and enjoy a few of the immersive digital exhibits at AREA15
- Before You Go: Pack your comfortable walking shoes, your sunscreen and your sunhat because Las Vegas is hot hot hot! And if you plan on drinking, don’t forget the LMNT electrolyte packets to help replenish your body.
- Budget Travel Pro Tip: Midweek stays on The Strip are almost always more affordable than weekend stays. The same room that goes for $300+ a night on a Friday/Saturday might be $70 on Sunday or Monday night! And whatever you do, try to avoid visiting during the days when national conferences are taking place! These tend to drive the hotel prices way up.
Fashion / Style in Las Vegas: What To Expect
A lot of people think Las Vegas is all about the glitz and the glamour. While, yes, there is a side of Las Vegas that’s all about seeing and being seen, there is also another, more laidback side. Depending on your personal style, you’ll need to pack for one or the other, or both!
Daytime in Las Vegas tends to be pretty casual. This is especially so in the summertime when hot summer afternoons force you to dress as lightly as possible. You can expect people to be dressed in pretty regular clothing (shorts, jeans, t-shirts, summer dresses, etc.). You might even see people in their swim coverups and sunhats walking the strip.
When night falls, that’s when the fancy nighttime attire comes out! For those looking to go out to the casinos, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, this is when you can show off your finest attire!
If you plan on enjoying daytime activities as well as going out at night, you’re going to need to account for both types of outfits.
What this means is you’ll need to make room in your luggage for items like high heels, purses, dress shoes, suit jackets, and dress pants (for men), and other accessories that you’d typically bring to look your best.
Now that we’ve set the stage on what to expect in Las Vegas (the daytime vibes and nighttime vibes are quite different), let’s get on to the packing details!
Understand The Weather In Vegas Before Packing
The relatively dry weather in Las Vegas makes it a great place to visit year-round. Having said that, the weather does differ quite a bit from season to season.
During the summer season (June to September), it can get quite hot in Las Vegas during the daytime. It is not uncommon for daytime temperatures to exceed 100 degrees. You’ll want to carry a lot of water with you wherever you go and pack clothes that are light and airy to prevent discomfort while walking around.
If you’re traveling during the late fall and winter months (November and February), you’ll be visiting during Las Vegas’ coldest season. This is when you’ll want to pack winter accessories and a warm, winter coat with you. Even though it’s cold, Las Vegas still sees its fair share of visitors, especially during New Year’s Eve, the Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day weekends.
Spring (March to May) in Las Vegas means comfortable daily temperatures hovering in the 70s and 80s. You will need to pack a few light layers, as temperatures cool significantly once the sun goes down.
During the fall season, the summer heat begins to fade away. In September and October, you can expect temperatures in the 80s and 90s, meaning you’re essentially still going to pack for ‘summer’ weather. As the months inch closer to winter (such as in November), you’re going to need to be prepared for that winter chill to roll in. Definitely bring some jackets for the cooler nighttime weather.
The bottom line: Along with your warm-weather clothing, bring something for those cooler temperatures (either when you’re indoors and establishments are blasting the air conditioner and/or for those cooler evenings). You’ll want to be prepared for it all!
Think Through Your Vegas Itinerary Before Packing
What activities are you going to be doing in Las Vegas? Will you be going to pool parties, day clubs, or beach clubs? Will you be watching a high-production-value entertainment show? Eating out at fancy restaurants? Dancing the night away at some of the best nightclubs in town? Hiking at nearby state parks?
Your planned activities will influence your Las Vegas packing list.
If you’re going to be going out every night, you’ll need to make room for a few showstopping outfits, some high heels or dress shoes, and things of that nature.
If you’re going to be doing outdoor/hiking activities, there’s going to be extra stuff you need to consider bringing, like activewear, hiking shoes, day packs, etc.
If beach lounging and eating around town is what your main objective is, you won’t need much other than beachwear and light, casual clothing.
Packing Gear: How To Carry Your Stuff To Las Vegas
Let’s talk about organizing your travel gear!
Before you even start packing, you’ll want to focus on the foundation of a well-organized trip: how you pack. The right bags, packing cubes, and organizational tools can make all the difference in keeping your belongings neat, accessible, and stress-free.
Imagine just throwing everything into a bag without any system—chaos, right? You’ll end up wasting time digging through your stuff, repacking constantly, and probably forgetting things along the way.
That’s where strategy comes in. By using the right travel bags (duffels vs. backpacks vs. suitcases) and organization tools (packing cubes, purses, sling bags, etc.), you can maximize space, keep similar items together, and make unpacking a breeze.
Trust me, a little organization goes a long way in making your travels smoother and more enjoyable.
Wheeled suitcase or travel backpack?
You’ve got two options here. Do you want to go with a wheeled suitcase or a travel backpack/duffel bag?
Wheeled carry-ons are awesome in that they are pretty much weightless on your body, you just roll and go.
The other option is a travel backpack (or a duffel that has backpack-like straps). Travel packs and duffel bags are so convenient when it comes to hands-free commuting.
As you’ll likely be needing a car in Las Vegas or taxiing around (and not lugging your bag around on foot), you could really go with either option.
1. Wheeled suitcase
I use my Monos Carry-On or my Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus whenever I want something sturdier. Both are investments, but they’re roomy, sleek looking, and long-lasting as heck. Plus their warranties are top-notch so I won’t have to worry about buying a new suitcase for at least another 10 years.
2. Travel duffel bag
Papu and I both have a North Face Base Camp Duffel. He uses his way more than me and uses it on just about 100% of the trips we go on.
Though it doesn’t have a whole lot of built-in compartments, it fits a lot of stuff, especially when paired with packing cubes.
What I also love about it is that it’s totally compressible–meaning it packs up into nothing and can be molded and shoved into the overhead compartment on a plane! It even has backpack straps so you can carry it around like a backpack–hands-free.
3. Packing cubes
Packing cubes are a game-changer when it comes to packing. They are amazing at creating space in your luggage that you never thought you had. No matter how you organize your clothes— by day, by outfit, by type—these will be the most useful thing you have in your packing artillery.
After testing out dozens of options for myself, the ones that I swear by now are the compressible packing cubes by Monos Travel. The quality of these cubes is next level. Honestly, I don’t think I can ever go back to the cheap ones after discovering these.
If those fall out of your budget: it seems they’ve recently made a Monos compression packing cube dupe.
4. Everyday bag
A daily travel bag that can fit a water bottle, phone, camera, sunglasses and sunscreen is a must. This will be your main bag during your daytime exploration.
If you’re traveling in the summertime, you’re definitely going to need something big enough to carry around a water bottle. Gotta stay hydrated in that dry, summer heat!
I have two suggestions for your trip:
A Mini Backpack: Perfect for hands-free exploring, a mini backpack is lightweight, comfortable, and can usually fit a water bottle, along with your other daily necessities. It’s a great choice for longer days of sightseeing. If you’re able to find a bag that folds flat so that you’re able to stow it in your larger travel bag, even better!
I have a couple of Fjallraven Mini Kankens that are great for travel.
A Crossbody Bag or Sling Bag: For days when you want a more low-profile look, a medium-sized crossbody bag is a stylish and practical alternative. Just make sure it’s spacious enough to hold your essentials—including a water bottle!
I like the BAGGU Nylon Crescent Bag or my trusty Bellroy Sling Bag for something simple and compressible, so when I’m not using it, I can flatten it and store it in my luggage.
What To Pack For Las Vegas: Clothing
5. Tops
If you plan on walking outdoors at all, stick to short-sleeve, sleeveless, or cropped tops in lightweight materials like cotton or linen. Sometimes, I’ll even use my more form-fitting workout tops as regular tops because of their sweat-wicking abilities!
Tank tops, halter tops, and stylish blouses (nothing too thick) are perfect for daytime exploring and can easily transition to casual evenings.
In the daytime it’s all about dressing casual and equipped to deal with the summer heat (or winter chill, depending on when you’re visiting).
For the evenings, you can wear fancier tops or even just stick to dresses.
6. Bottoms / shorts
If you’re traveling during the warmer season (March to October), you could easily get by with just shorts or skirts all day long. Having said that, you’ll want to bring 1 pair of long pants (or a fancy romper) for dinners at the fancier restaurants.
7. Bike shorts
Bike shorts are great for a multitude of reasons. They can be worn under dresses or as a standalone bottom (especially great on transit/flying days).
Let me be the first to tell you about my newest discovery on how to keep my legs from becoming a huge sweaty mess in hot weather… I love Thigh Society’s shorties for summer travel!
There are two different options I like depending on what look I’m going for. If I want to wear an above-the-knee dress on a hot day, I go with The Cooling 5″ option. It’s so thin, meaning “sweaty butt” won’t be an issue.
And they’re especially useful if it happens to be a windy day. These lil’ shorties make me feel so much more comfortable knowing that I have an extra layer of protection and coverage should the wind decide to do me dirty and lift my dress in one swoop.
The other type of bike shorts I love are the ones by Beyond Yoga. They have become a staple in my travel arsenal too. They’re super-versatile because these guys are very opaque, meaning they can be worn alone (for runs, yoga, on the plane, even out exploring).
8. Leggings
As a very active person, I love workout leggings and can’t take any trip without at least one pair.
If you plan on working out or going for a morning jog during your trip, bring two pairs: one for physical activity and an extra pair for lounging.
I’ll usually bring both of my trusty Lululemon leggings on trips: the Fast and Free leggings (a thinner pant with side pockets) and the Wunder Train High-Rise Tights (slightly thicker, also has pockets).
The pockets are a must — I love that I can actually be hands-free with leggings! The pockets are big enough for things like my phone, credit cards, hotel key, chapstick, etc.
9. Day Dresses
Plan to pack ~1-2 dresses for your trip to Las Vegas. Long or flowy dresses are really good options if you want to save space in your luggage.
If you plan on going out at night or have formal dinner plans, aim for one of the dresses to be appropriate for both daytime and evening looks. Add a nice cardigan (or even a shawl), swap out the flip-flops for your nicer sandals, and be on your merry way!
It’s all about versatility!
10. Evening / Clubbing Outfits
Las Vegas is the perfect opportunity to look your best and show that look off to the rest of the world! You can wear casual clothing at home — so while you’re in Vegas, take this opportunity to get dolled up and dress to impress.
Look for LBDs (little black dresses), cocktail dresses, bandage dresses, sexy cutout dresses, or pair a cute top with a mini skirt. Get wild with dress colors or go with a simple black dress, the choice is yours!
For the guys, a dress shirt, dress shoes, and slacks will usually do. If you want to look extra on-point, add a suit jacket.
Just remember, no sweatpants or baggy clothing unless you have loads of money and can pay your way in!
INSPIRATION FOR LAS VEGAS NIGHTLIFE: FOR THE GALS
INSPIRATION FOR LAS VEGAS NIGHTLIFE: FOR THE GUYS
11. Swimwear
If you thought Vegas was only known for its glamorous nightlife, you’d be wrong! The pool parties and day club scene are also popping. What that means is that even pool attire tends to be very intentional and people still attempt to look their best!
If you decide to go day clubbing, choose a swimsuit that not only looks great but also makes you feel great too.
If you’re just looking to hang out by your hotel pool (which is a must when you’re paying that mandatory resort fee), any old swimsuit will do!
12. Swimsuit Coverup
Swimsuit coverups are great because they usually double as stylish, airy, and light dresses.
This is great to bring along even if you don’t plan on attending a day club, as they look much better than wearing a damp towel around while you’re not in the pool.
13. Underwear, socks, bras
Undies: Bring 1 pair of underwear for as many days as you’re going to be traveling. Most times though, I even bring a few extra for changing out of bathing suits after a visit to the pool or day club.
Socks: I also tend to bring fewer socks than the number of days I’m visiting because I find that I wear sandals and high heels more than regular shoes in Las Vegas!
Bras: Depending on your planned activities and the number of days you’ll be staying in Las Vegas, 2-4 bras will do. You may need a sports bra, a regular t-shirt bra, and a strapless bra (for dresses). You might even consider chicken cutlets (stick-on bra).
These items are light enough where overpacking is not a problem.
14. High Heels / Dress Shoes
If you plan on going out at night, you’ll want to make sure your stylish outfits are accompanied by the right pair of shoes!
For the ladies, depending on how many different looks you plan on going for, you might need to make room in your luggage for a few pairs of heels. If heels are too much for you, a comfortable pair of flats will do fine too.
For the gents, bring a pair of dress shoes for the club. A lot of Las Vegas nightclubs do not allow entry with tennis shoes or sneakers, so be prepared.
15. High Heel Inserts
Let’s be honest, high heels hurt. Very few people enjoy wearing high heels because so many of them aren’t comfortable. They’ll either rub the heck out of your heel or put a bunch of pressure on the ball of your foot.
That’s where high heel inserts come in to save the day! High heel inserts allow you to wear heels for longer, with a lot less pain. The two types I like are:
16. Comfortable Walking Shoes
You will probably be doing a lot of walking during your Las Vegas trip. The Strip is a lot longer than it looks on a map, so you should bring at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes with good support and traction.
My all-time favorite travel shoes these days are the tried and true Ecco Soft 7 (they’re stylish, comfortable, and have been raved about for decades since they were first created)! They are perfect for instances when I want to avoid that tennis shoe look–like when I’m wearing a dress or plan on going out for some nightlife.
The best part is that they have them for both men and women.
17. Sandals
When traveling to warm desert destinations, sandals are a must. For Las Vegas, I like to bring multiple options depending on what my planned activities are.
For more casual sandals, I alternate between my Birkenstocks and Ilse Jacobson Hornbaek slip-ons — both allow you to walk miles and miles without pain.
For something more waterproof, going with either flip flops or something like these Birkenstock Essentials Arizona Sandals (made with EVA foam) will allow you to hit the pool and walk with comfort as well.
18. Cardigan or light puffy jacket
For those unsuspecting chilly nights or those situations where you find that the air conditioning is blasting indoors!
A puffy jacket is always a good option because of how they can pack up into nothing! 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 traveling!
19. Sleepwear / loungewear
Yoga pants or workout shorts and a baggy t-shirt are all you need. You can really save luggage space here! These items can be used as pajamas, loungewear, and airplane/road trip outfits.
What To Pack For Las Vegas: Accessories
20. Sunglasses
Because it can get really bright during the mornings and afternoons in Vegas! If you’re in the market for a new pair, I personally really like the retro designs by I-SEA. They’ll go so well with your cute vacay outfits.
21. Sun Hat / Baseball Cap
Hats are so necessary for sun protection, don’t forget it! You most definitely should have one if you’re going to be spending any prolonged time outdoors.
22. Jewelry
Definitely optional, but it does usually help to elevate your nighttime look.
What To Pack For Las Vegas: Toiletries
23. Hanging Toiletry Bag
You’re probably going to be bringing along a lot of standard toiletries, makeup products, and hairstyling items, so you’re going to want an easy and convenient way to keep all this stuff together.
The best way to make toiletry packing as efficiently as possible is to carry it all in a hanging toiletry bag. Because these bags can be hung, you’ll get shelf-like access to your products without having to pack and unpack every item just to get to the one you need.
I personally love the BAGSMART Toiletry Travel Bag. It’s one of the best ones out there on the market!
Pro Tip: You can even save a little compartment for all your jewelry pieces (necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, etc.)!
24. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is absolutely necessary. Even if it’s overcast or cloudy, the UV index can be very high, so be sure to apply whenever you’re outdoors.
No matter where we go, we like a reef-safe mineral sunscreen, as traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that damage our environment.
For the face, I’ve been absolutely obsessed with the magical Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen, but once that’s all used up, I’m making a conscious effort to switch to a mineral face sunscreen too. Don’t forget to pack that hat!
25. TSA-approved squeeze bottles
GoToob travel bottles are my favorite thing ever. Made of high-quality silicone, they are extremely durable, have never leaked on me, and are super easy to squeeze.
For something bougier, check out the leakproof Cadence capsules. They don’t come cheap, but it’s been years and mine are still going strong.
26. Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer gel or hand sanitizing 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.
27. Body Wipes / Feminine Wipes
Feeling a bit gross after a walk on The Strip or after a dip in the pool 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. It’s always good to have a few handy in your travel bag.
28. Shower supplies
Only required if you’re going to be at an Airbnb or vacation rental.
These are usually provided by hotels. If you run out, you can simply ask for more.
29. Dental supplies
Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash. You’ll likely be eating a ton in Vegas, so come prepared with your best dental hygiene game.
If you don’t floss, you need to! If you haven’t heard of Cocofloss, now you have. This was the only kind of floss to get me to start flossing on a daily basis. YOU ARE WELCOME.
Because I hate the feeling of food in my teeth, I actually go one step further and bring along my travel-friendly quip Water Flosser. This thing gets tons of particles out of my teeth after every meal, it’s crazy!
30. Deodorant
You’re going to be in the hot sun most of the time, so bring deodorant if you sweat or stink.
31. Makeup
Some women have a huge collection of makeup. I also love to wear makeup in Las Vegas. But keep in mind that you’ll need to pack everything else to complete your nighttime look, as well as pack stuff for your daytime activities.
Bring only what you need, and don’t overpack when it comes to makeup and brushes.
32. Makeup removal wipes
I don’t typically use makeup removal wipes at home, but I find them to be SO convenient in Las Vegas. After a night of partying, the last thing you want to do is stand over the sink for 10 minutes applying your beauty routine to your face!
Makeup removal wipes are an ultra-quick and easy way to remove dirt and makeup from your face so you can pass right out (and worry about your beauty routine tomorrow morning).
And if you’re traveling with other girlfriends, they will absolutely thank you for bringing these!
33. Dry shampoo
I try not to wash my hair every day, but at the same time, summers in Las Vegas are hot. Your head will sweat and secrete oils you never knew it could.
To prevent greasiness and questionable head smells, use some dry shampoo and you’ll be good as new. I like this dry shampoo by amika.
34. Hangover Preventatives
Vegas and hangovers go hand-in-hand, which is why you should come prepared with a hangover preventative or a hangover cure! These days, hangover __ comes in many different forms. These are all great:
- PartySmart Antioxidant Capsules
- Blowfish for Hangovers (effervescent tablets)
- The Good Patch Rescue Patch (patch for wrists)
Ibuprofen is also a must for your Las Vegas packing list, as are LMNT electrolyte packets. We like LMNT’s science-backed electrolytes for replenishing all the good stuff we sweat out (without all the added sugars that come in stuff like Liquid IV).
Drink these either before your night out or the morning after a night out and you’ll be good to hit your lunchtime buffet in no time!
35. Energy Shots (or coffee)
If you or your friends are extra wild, you best come prepared with some energizing shots. Ethan’s Clean Energy is a good option in terms of liquid energy shots that provide clean caffeine from organic green tea, guayusa tea, and mushroom extracts. It’s made of USDA Organic ingredients and is also non-GMO.
And if coffee is your best friend, I recommend you bring some of your own coffee with you.
Unlike hotels in many other destinations, coffee is NOT free at most resorts/hotels on the Las Vegas Strip, and buying from the Starbucks shops in the hotel lobbies can really add up (they charge way more than what normal a Starbucks charges!). Save money and enjoy your favorite coffee by bringing instant, canned, or bottled options with you.
Have your caffeine fix on hand anytime, anywhere, and keep your budget in check during your Vegas stay. ☕️
36. Undereye masks
You’ll want to combat those long, party-filled, sleepless nights with some undereye masks. “It’s like an energy drink for your eyes” is exactly what you need in the morning.
These undereye patches by Grace & Stella are amazing for combatting undereye bags and puffy eyes, to say the least.
Again, your friends will love you for sharing this with them!
37. DIY survival kit
Carrying around a mini first aid kit with you is always a good idea. Since you’re traveling though, you may need more than what the average first aid kit provides. I’d recommend making your own DIY survival kit!
Make a little bag of the following: ibuprofen, allergy pills, Immodium, ciprofloxacin (or whatever your doctor prescribes for traveler’s diarrhea), bandaids, floss, hand sanitizer, eye drops, lip balm, a sharpie, tape, and extra contact lenses (if applicable).
Think about the ailments you typically suffer from and have to deal with on a regular basis and adjust the contents of the bag as needed!
38. Extra plastic baggies
Because you never know, but they always come in handy.
You can even reuse the plastic baggies you get from the supermarket.
39. Tissue/antibacterial wipes
Sometimes, your hands get dirty. Sometimes, there’s no toilet paper in the public bathrooms. Tissues and hand wipes are great for these instances.
40. Eye mask
Eye masks are amazing for airplane rides or shared rooms where your roommates either sleep extra late or wake up extra early.
There are crappy eye masks that push into your eyeballs (not good), and then REALLY good eye masks.
I’m on the really good eye mask train. The 100% blackout + no eye pressure eye mask by Ostrichpillow is amazing. Plus, it has velcro on the back for an adjustable fit, meaning it’ll fit around everyone’s head! I’ll never go back to a lame eye mask ever again.
Pro Tip: If you’re sharing a room with someone who snores, do yourself a favor and bring some earplugs as well.
What To Pack For Las Vegas: Electronics
41. External battery
Crucial, especially if you’re going to be out all day exploring and using your phone for Google Maps and such. You probably have one lying around at home, but does it still even charge?
I’ve recently upgraded to this ultra-light and portable MagGo power bank by Anker. These days, I never embark on a day of exploration without it.
42. Travel adapter
Necessary for many international travelers visiting Las Vegas. This one here is tried and trusted. It allows for a normal plug and has two additional USB ports.
43. Chargers
Bring multiple phone charging cables since they are light and easy to carry.
In case you misplace your first one or it poops out on you, you’ll have a spare charging cable handy.
What To Pack For Las Vegas: Documents
44. Travel belt or money belt
A travel belt is a smart traveler’s best friend. They are the best thief-proof tool for airplane travel, public transportation travel, walking around abroad, and just about everything else in between.
I always, always use a Flip Belt to carry around identification, important documents, and money that I want to keep safe and right by my side.
Another benefit of the Flip Belt? It’s actually supposed to be a running belt. I swear, this thing doesn’t budge or jiggle at all when I run, plus it’s super comfortable!
45. Money
While the majority of Las Vegas will take credit card, it’s always good to carry around a mix of local currency (USD) for emergencies. Especially if you plan on trying your luck at the casino!
Bringing your own cash can save you from high ATM fees, especially at hotels and casinos where withdrawal charges can quickly add up (they’re usually $6 USD per transaction or higher).
And if you happen to heading off the Strip for a special event, if you end up at a music festival or market with food vendors, it’s easier to just pay in cash.
46. Tickets and travel documents
Passport, student ID, medical card, proof of travel insurance, printed documents of your flight/hotel bookings, visas if you need them.
And if you’ve been to Vegas before, don’t forget to bring your casino player’s cards! If you happen to forget these at home, you can head to the casino services desk and they’ll print you new ones.
47. Travel cards
Credit cards, debit cards, airport lounge access cards, visas.
Other Travel Essentials: What To Pack For Las Vegas
48. Travel pillow
If you’re traveling from abroad, you may want to consider packing a travel pillow with you.
The turtl Pillow is the only one you need to consider for easy airplane sleeping! It comes highly rated because it has so much support, almost like a neck brace (there’s a chunk of flexible plastic in there to prop your head up). It’s warm and super packable too.
And if you’re looking to level up, the trtl Pillow Plus is even more high-tech than the original.
49. Refillable water bottle
For a water bottle that keeps your water cold for hours upon hours, Hydroflasks are my favorite for everyday use.
While they are a bit heavier, I prefer these for Las Vegas because of their ability to keep water ice-cold even when kept in the trunk of a hot car all day.
👉 Pro Tip: Las Vegas hotels are stingy when it comes to water. They want you to buy bottled water from them. Instead of doing that, head to the gym with your water bottle. There’s usually a water dispenser there. You’re welcome.
50. Laundry bag
Keep your worn clothes separate from your clean ones, especially when traveling to hotter climates. When it’s hot, you’ll definitely be sticky and sweaty by the end of the day.
All that stickiness will transfer to your clothes. And even if you don’t get sticky/sweaty, you will inevitably have dirty socks and undies to toss in here.
I have this laundry bag set, and it’s great because it includes many size options.
51. Portable neck fan
For travelers who, like me, do very poorly in hot destinations, this one is for you. If you can’t stand the feeling of dry, hot, breezeless air, do not forget to pack a portable neck fan if you’re visiting in the summertime!
A constant and enjoyable breeze makes all the difference and will allow you to stay comfortable being outside in the heat for hours on end. I personally own this bladeless neck fan and love it!
If you are traveling to Las Vegas during the warmer months and you do not do well in hot weather, I beg you, pack this in your travel bag!
Essential Travel Tips for Las Vegas, Nevada
- Distances are further than they appear. Sure everything looks super close since the hotels are right next to each other, but there’s some real distance to cover. Walking from the Venetian to Caesar’s Palace (especially in high heels)? Nearly impossible.
- Midweek stays on The Strip are almost always more affordable than weekend stays. The same room that goes for $300+ a night on a Saturday might be $79 on Sunday or Monday night.
- If you’re flying to Las Vegas from the West Coast, there are cheaper options than the traditional Friday to Sunday flight. Take a flight in on Thursday night (after work) or the first flight in on Saturday morning and fly out Monday morning. Thursday and Sunday night hotel rooms are cheaper, and your flight will likely be less expensive too!
- The cheapest time to travel to Las Vegas is the week or two before Christmas. I’ve stayed at Planet Hollywood a few times for $36/night. You could easily find 4-star hotels charging less than $200 for a Friday/Saturday night stay. Such a steal.
- Regardless of when you go to Las Vegas, you’ll probably want to bring a jacket. In the winter, when temps can dip into the low 40s (between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius), you’re going to need a jacket just to walk around. In the scorching summers, hotels and other indoor locations will have AC blasting. So if you’re susceptible to the cold, definitely carry a light jacket around with you.
- A lot of the hotels are connected to each other, making it easy to get from point A to point B without exposing yourself to the elements too much.
- Want to avoid paying those absorbant parking fees at casinos/resorts? Head to Encore/Wynn, Palazzo/Venetian, or Circus Circus–they offer free parking for ALL guests and visitors.
- If you plan to splurge on a buffet, you’ll often get the best bang for your buck at the lunch buffet. You can stuff yourself so much at lunch that you won’t really want to eat dinner (or will want to eat a light, inexpensive meal). Look for the ones with unlimited crab legs and lobster claws (Bacchanal is one)!
- Want to get into nightclubs for free? Promoters are constantly scouring social media platforms. Before your trip, post on IG using hashtags like #Vegas or the name of a resort, club or restaurant to get noticed. Don’t be surprised if you find concierges/promoters dropping comments on your post.
- If you’re planning to spend significant time in the casino, sign up for a players club card (available at every casino). The card is absolutely free and can earn you discounts at the buffet, as well as cash vouchers on your next visit to the casino or free future night stays.
- If you’re going to be gambling, don’t purchase cocktails at the casino bar—they’re actually free! Simply wait until a cocktail waitress approaches you to take your order. All you need to do is tip!
- Friday is one of the best nights to find tickets and entertainment discounts in Las Vegas. If you’re looking to see a show or two and want to save a few bucks, aim to watch them on a Friday.
When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Las Vegas?
The best time of the year to visit Las Vegas is from March to May and from September to November.
While you’ll find relatively affordable accommodations and lots of travel deals throughout the year, I recommend the spring and fall seasons because this is when the weather is most pleasant.
In March, the weather will be hovering around 70 degrees while in October, the weather will be near the low 80s.
Do You Need A Car In Las Vegas?
While a car will give you a lot more flexibility in Las Vegas, it is not absolutely necessary to get around.
In order to decide whether you should rent a car or not, that will completely depend on what you plan to do with your time.
If you plan on doing a lot of activities off-strip (or plan on doing day trips to other parts of Nevada/Arizona), definitely bring your car or get a rental car. Parking is usually free for hotel guests at the casino resorts.
If you spend most of your time on the Las Vegas Strip, it’s totally doable to explore Vegas without a car. You can easily rely on the Monorail, taxis, or Uber/Lyft to get around.
99% of the time, we rent a car when visiting Las Vegas. Why? Because we love getting off the strip (eating in the Chinatown area, visiting parks and hiking trails, seeing friends in Summerlin, etc.). Doing so is just so much easier with a car.
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!
Tips for renting or driving a car in the Las Vegas Strip area:
- If you do plan on driving, make a note that The Strip can get VERY congested in the afternoon to evening and can be a pain to get around.
- If you plan on taking your car from hotel to hotel to explore, do note that you will likely have to pay for parking if you’re not an overnight guest there. Many hotels these days even charge their own hotel guests for parking (so sad).
- There are only a few spots on The Strip now that offer free day-use guest parking (most hotels started charging for parking a few years back). This includes Wynn Las Vegas, Circus Circus, Treasure Island, Fashion Show Mall, etc.
Read Next: 8 Best Las Vegas Strip Hotels With Free Parking
So after all that, you’re now ready for your epic, fun-filled Las Vegas vacation!
Looking for more Las Vegas travel resources? Read next:
70+ Fun Things To Do In Las Vegas Other Than Gambling and Drinking
50 Romantic Things To Do In Las Vegas For Couples
10 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels In Las Vegas
7 Las Vegas Hotels With No Resort Fees (That Don’t Suck)
The Perfect 5-Day Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park Road Trip From Las Vegas