Listen: we understand on your trip to Las Vegas, you’ll probably be a little unsure what to pack and end up with your kitchen sink and 75 pairs of socks and underpants, but that’s just not clever now is it? Here is the UpbeatVegas list of “essentials” you might want to consider so you’re more than prepared for your holiday.
But what counts as essentials for Sin City? Banana hammocks and condoms? Revealing swimsuits and 6 inch heels that look classy af but give you blisters? Sunscreen? While some of these are musts (no, we didn’t say condoms… but don’t leave those out either), other items can be bought in Vegas if you need them. So here’s a list of what you should absolutely pack to make your trip smooth and enjoyable, and we’ve thrown in some tips where you can find essentials you happen to forget… or decide you do need after all.
Cash, ID, and Travel Insurance (if you use it)
When it comes to cash. Make sure to change currencies before you come as there aren’t any banks on the strip and ATM fees can be upwards of $50 per transaction with $1-2k daily limits. It’s always wise to carry cash if you’re coming from overseas, especially if you’d rather not get shouted at for not tipping, plan on visiting the strip clubs, or you just want some of those souvenir photos from the hustlers on the strip… (word to the wise: don’t do this; you will get scammed and end up $40 to $100 poorer). It’s understandable that carrying cash feels sort of- boomer-ish, but it’s always good to have some in Vegas. Also make sure your bank knows you’re traveling to avoid holds and declined charges: never a good look. IDs can be tricky in the states: most places take Drivers License or ID cards from other countries, but you may need your passport at some spots. Pro tip: it doesn’t matter if you look 80 they will still need ID for you to enter. Travel insurance doesn’t hurt either unless you;d like a $5k ride in an ambulance…
For your toiletry bag: headache tablets (the stronger the better), sunscreen, sleeping tablets / Melatonin (for the jet lag), ear plugs, eye masks, condoms (yes, we actually do recommend them, after all), and anything else (legal) you may need to stay focused and sharp on your trip. Make sure to bring medications in their original packaging to avoid issues at immigration, security, and in the clubs/pools as some venues can be strict about what you bring in. While you can find all of this here, chemists and shops on the strip upcharge everything: so you will pay double for each item and those Johnnie’s won’t be cheap (and probably won’t come ribbed for anyone’s pleasure). Target, Walgreens, CVS, and a few other big box stores have what you need, just don’t go with the intention to buy everything or your budget will be blown before you even visit a club or bar! Make sure to throw a few tubes of… (if you were thinking lube get your head out of the gutter) chapstick, too: the air is dry in Sin city and crusty lips isn’t a good nickname to be called for the entirety of the trip.
Jacket, comfortable shoes, and hats/sunnies
Vegas weather is a fickle friend: Summer is like opening your oven door without the nice aroma of pizza hitting your face. Your casinos are your friend and usually freezing to help keep patrons cool so when walking the strip utilize any walkthroughs, just keep the blinkers on if you are partial to a cheeky spin. You can get away with a blazer or long sleeve shirt even in the warmer months at the indoor venues, and it never hurts to have a jacket handy. Winter does get chilly, so bring warm clothing. It’s usually sunny no matter the weather so sunnies and hats are worth the extra space in your suitcase. Comfortable shoes don’t have to be the nerdy types your gran wears, but you want something cushioned and possibly even close toed for days you will be walking a lot or excursions in and around the city. You also want smart shoes and Jeans / trousers for the lads for clubs: ladies still need flats or sandals that have a strap on the heel for the night time venues (minus the night swims).
If you really need to stock up on supplies: consider getting an Uber to a Target or Walmart off the strip, or even a Dollar Tree. You can grab all your needs there: and if you forget smart clothes for the clubs, check out Fashion Show or Planet Hollywood to grab a few bits on the cheap(ish) or the Northern outlets for some decent deals on designer clothes! Drop us a message if you have any other questions and one of our experts will be happy to assist!
