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What to Pack for San Diego

What to Pack for San Diego

San Diego California, USA Travel Guide

Warm Weather Wardrobe

San Diego's climate often layers, even on warm days, due to cool mornings, evenings, and coastal breezes.

Daytime Essentials

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen).
  • Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses.
  • Swimwear and beach cover-ups.

Cooler Season Layers

Evenings cool down significantly, especially near the coast. Wearing layers is your friend.

Evening & Cooler Day Wear

Selecting Your Shoes

Walking Shoes

Required for exploring attractions like Balboa Park, Old Town, and city neighborhoods.

City exploration

Beach Sandals

Sandals or flip-flops for beaches and casual wear.

Coastal strolls

Hiking/Trail Shoes

Useful for trails at Torrey Pines, Mission Trails, or other natural areas.

Outdoor adventures

Essential Travel Documents

Your Travel Toolkit

Careful preparation of your documents helps ensure a smooth travel experience.

  • Valid passport and visa/ESTA confirmation.
  • Travel insurance policy details.
  • International Driving Permit (if renting a car).
  • Vaccination records & health documentation.
  • Printed & digital copies of reservations.
  • Emergency contact information.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for discounts.
  • Prescription medication documentation.

Technology & Connectivity

Power & Voltage

Plan your electronics to stay connected and powered throughout your San Diego trip.

Power Basics

  • U.S. uses Type A & B outlets (Adapter needed for other types).
  • Standard voltage is 120 V at 60 Hz.
  • Most modern electronics dual voltage; check labels for Converter need.

Mobile & Data

Ensure your mobile phone connectivity for finding your way and staying in touch.

Phone & SIM Cards

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and documents.

External Hard Drive

Physical a spare for large files and peace of mind.

Memory Sticks

Compact option for small-to-medium data backups.

Health & Wellness Essentials

Traveler's First Aid

Prepare a personal health kit to address common travel ailments and ensure your well-being.

Contents

Your Medicine Cabinet

Carry all prescription medications in their original containers with pharmacy labels. Bring a copy of the prescription and a doctor's note for any controlled substances.

Essential Meds

  • Cold/flu remedies, antacids, and antihistamines.
  • Personal prescription medications (with doctor's note).
  • Up-to-date on routine vaccinations.

Combat Motion Sickness

Overall Comfort

  • Not a concern in San Diego (sea level).
  • Stay hydrated for overall well-being.
  • Rest when needed after travel.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies for boat tours.
  • Concentrate on the horizon if feeling queasy.
  • Consider ginger-based products for natural relief.

Activity-Specific Gear

For the Outdoors

Pack gear tailored to your planned adventures. This ensures you have what you need for specific experiences.

For Water Adventures

San Diego's coastal access brings many water activities.

Personalized Gear

No universally required specialty items. Needs vary by specific interest.

Equipment Choices

Items to Rent

  • Surfboards and paddleboards.
  • Kayaks for bay exploration.
  • Bicycles for leisurely rides.
  • Many shops near beaches and parks Offer rentals.

Items to Bring

General Travel Essentials

Travel Comforts

Include these general items for practicality and security during your travels.

Comfort Items

Eco-Friendly & Practical

Contribute to sustainable travel while keeping essentials close.

Reusable Items

Sustainable Travel Tips

Recycle Mindfully

Use marked trash cans.

Walk More

Explore on foot or bike.

Conserve Energy

Turn off lights, AC.

Respect Nature

Leave no trace.

San Diego Specific Items

General Well-being

  • Insect repellent (especially near water).
  • Any specific items for a specific diet not common in U.S.
  • Prescription medications in original containers.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to be space-efficient and avoid wrinkles. Use packing cubes for better organization within your luggage.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase and distribute weight evenly to make carrying easier.