Though it's known for its nightlife, Las Vegas is action-packed during daylight hours too. Plan to spend at least part of your trip walking the Strip, soaking up the sun and marveling at street performers. In summer months, when temperatures routinely rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, walking shorts and tank tops or thin T-shirts are your best option. Pack one outfit for each day, since they're bound to get sweaty. But while Vegas is a prime vacation spot year-round, the weather isn't always so hot: the mean temperature in December is a measly 48 degrees Fahrenheit, says weather.com. In nonsummer months, pack a pair of jeans or cotton pants, plus a few T-shirts and a warm layering piece like a sweater. Worn-in walking shoes are a must, and you'll need flip-flops for the pool.
If you prefer to spend the night walking around casinos and people-watching;your daytime clothes are suitable. If you plan to take in a show or dine in an upscale restaurant, a man can wear a pair of dress pants and a collared shirt, while a woman will be comfortable in a sundress or dress pants with a blouse. Don't forget dress shoes. Think trendy if you want to partake in the city's famed club scene. A man can wear dark jeans, a crisp button-up shirt and dark shoes; a woman will fit in wearing anything short, tight or sexy paired with heels. Some clubs have strict dress codes forbidding jeans, so call ahead if you have your heart set on a particular hot spot.
Some pools are packed with kids while others attract the party set, but wherever you're staying in Las Vegas, you can bet it will have a pool. A single bathing suit is probably adequate, though you might pack a second suit if you plan to see and be seen at the pool on both days of your trip. Bring a cover-up or a T-shirt to wear over the suit. The city is a golfer's paradise, with courses of all levels of formality. If you plan to practice your swing, pack Bermuda-length khaki shorts or pants, a collared polo shirt and golf shoes. Your hotel might have a gym, but you'll get adequate exercise walking around, so leave the gym clothes at home.
A pair of light pajamas, socks and three or four pairs of underwear are essential. Most Vegas hotels stock their bathrooms with basic toiletries like shampoo and soap, but bringing travel-sized containers of all your bathroom basics is always wise. A woman should bring just the makeup basics, like mascara, eye shadow and lip gloss, since heavy makeup might melt in the Las Vegas heat. Deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen and sunglasses are must-haves, and considering how many photos you'll be taking and wish-you-were-here texts you'll be sending, don't forget your cell phone and charger. Rain is rare, and there's plenty of indoor activity when the occasional downpour does begin, so don't waste suitcase room with an umbrella. Do pack any medications you take regularly, and bring a water bottle and bottle of aspirin. A headache is a likely end to a long Vegas night.
