Layers
The weather and temperature can change quickly in California. The days may be warm, and the nights, chilly. It’s generally a good idea to being a
light jacket or sweater with you where ever you go. The more walking and exercising you do, the warmer you will be so wearing easily removable layers is a must. Also, the air and temperature are always cooler the closer you are to a body of water so bring a sweater in case you decide to take a walk on the beach.
Sun Protection
Four years ago, I spent a day at Laguna Beach in overcast weather. The sun was hiding behind thick fluffy clouds so I figured I’d be okay without wearing sunblock. Nope. I received the worst sunburn of my life. My shoulders, traps and neck were red and swollen; wearing clothes and swimsuits was painful for a week.
Some brands carry sunblock or sunscreen that is designed to be used on the beach. It is water resistant and protects the skin from water damage, and UVA and UVB rays. I wouldn’t advise anyone to put the same sunblock or sunscreen they use on their body, on their face, unless it is designed for that type of use. As a person who has struggled with acne these past few months, I have learned that your face is extremely sensitive and needs special care. For facial sunscreen, I would recommend one that is waterproof and break-out free protecting skin from UVA and UVB rays. Neutrogena has one called “Clear Face.”
- SPF 30
- Designed especially for acne prone skin
- Water resistant for 80 minutes
I also have another type of facial sunscreen which utilizes milk, an ingredient great for sensitive skin; Biore UV Perfect Milk.
- SPF50+ PA+++ sunscreen for face and body
- Ideal for outdoor activities
- Water-proof
Comfortable Shoes
There is a lot to do in California. There are mountains to climb, national parks to explore, cities to walk, and amusement parks to enjoy. Making sure your feet are properly supported is important. Bad foot support can cause pain in the lower back, hips, knees, neck, and shoulder area. If you’re on your feet sightseeing all day, I highly recommend comfy shoes, but they can be cute too! Comfortable doesn’t mean ugly.
Camera
California has a number of natural paradises and seems to always have festivals and parades going on. There are many opportunities to snap amazing pictures of landscapes, towns and selfies. You can bring a selfie-stick too- if you’re one of those people. The San Francisco area is a popular place for photography, especially because of the Victorian style homes. Yosemite is also another great place to take pictures of landscapes and nature.
Swimsuit
It’s California! You are going to swim, or wade into the cold Pacific Ocean at some point. If not the ocean, perhaps a pool, so don’t forget a swimsuit. There is nothing I hate more than having the chance to swim but forgetting to pack a swimsuit. This year, I will be rocking three swim suits on the beach; two 2-piece bikinis and one 1-piece.
Hairbrush
The California wind can do a number on your hair style, or maybe you’ll be driving with your top down, or the windows down. You don’t want to look like Shirley MacLaine in Terms of Endearment, so bring a brush to comb through those knots. Also, ocean water has a tendency to make you hair tangled, dry and unmanageable. A hairbrush and some detangler spray goes a long way.
Waterproof Cosmetics
If you’re like me, you won’t want to stink from walking all day. Deodorant, waterproof (or regular,) will help absorb unwanted odors. Sweating all day, spontaneously jumping into pools, or swimming in the ocean can also ruin your makeup. Sure, it’s probably best to not wear makeup before going for a swim but sometimes these things happen spur-of-the-moment. It’s always good to have back up! My required waterproof cosmetics include:
- Deoderant
- Mascara
- Eyeliner (Anastasia Creme Color)
- Brow Creme (Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade)
Now that you have your list of essentials, you will be fully prepared for California weather. I hope you all enjoy your trip, and make sure you leave early enough to avoid all that horrible traffic!
Sources:
Neutrogena Sunscreen :
http://images.neutrogena.com/images//products_store/en_us/product_images/6887274_320x385.jpg
Bad Hair Day Drawing:
http://www.kstatecollegian.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/34f89a09-e978-4cd2-bdb4-364813302175.jpg
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade:
http://i0.wp.com/makeupatoz.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/IMG_1949.jpg
