With its iconic beaches, mountains, cities, and deserts, the Golden State has been luring travelers since the days of the Gold Rush. A trip here promises beautiful scenery, top-notch cuisine, and world-famous attractions.
However, planning a California vacation takes some strategic forethought. As the most populous US state, California offers endless sights across diverse terrain. Maximizing your experience means researching logistics like transportation, lodging, crowds, and climate ahead of time.
Here are 11 key things to consider before traveling to California:
- California is huge!
First and first, California is enormous; driving north to south throughout the state can easily take 12-13 hours, and that is without stopping. The Los Angeles area alone is large enough to spend a week exploring. We would only accomplish a little on your trip if you are comfortable with long travels and rushed excursions. Consider spending one week in the northern part of the state, seeing San Francisco, Napa, Yosemite, and so on, followed by another week in Los Angeles, San Diego, Joshua Tree, etc.
Many people also think they can drive the Pacific Coast Highway in a day, which is theoretically feasible, but you won’t be able to stop and take in the scenery. Don’t try to accomplish too much during your visit; you’ll have a wonderful experience.
- Consider renting a car.
When visiting California, you should rent a car. Because California is so large, it is easier to see much by renting a car, particularly in the Los Angeles area, where public transportation is inadequate. If you only want to remain in San Francisco, you can do so without a car.
The BART is easy to use from the airport, and public transportation, including cable cars and buses, works effectively in the city. If you don’t plan on renting a car, download the Uber and Lyft apps, as many people use them to get to big cities.
- Watch the Weather Reports
California’s size means temperatures and climate conditions vary widely across different regions. Pack accordingly for destinations like sunny Palm Springs (swimsuit), foggy San Francisco (layers), ski town Mammoth Mountain (winter coat), and sultry Death Valley (hat, sunscreen).
- Prepare for Sticker Shock
The state’s travel costs trend higher, from private jet charter California and hotels to restaurants and attractions, especially in big cities like San Francisco and LA. Work these elevated expenses into your budget to avoid surprise bills. Saving upfront helps you indulge worry-free once there.
- Visit during the off-season.
California is known for its sunny summers and pleasant winters. Most tourists travel during the summer months (June to August), resulting in heavy crowds at beaches and attractions. Consider going in the spring (March-May) to enjoy pleasant weather without the crowds, exorbitant prices, and long lineups. Autumn (September to November) is also an excellent time to come.
- Always go on a hiking expedition prepared.
If you want to go trekking, check the weather forecast for any cautions. Letting friends and family know your plans is necessary because cell phone connections can be spotty in remote areas. Always bring plenty of water and keep attentive. Avoid trekking alone if you are untrained or unfamiliar with the area’s seasonal fluctuations.
- Remember to tip appropriately.
It is widely accepted in American cities to tip restaurant servers between 15% and 20% (depending on the level of service). You can tip hotel personnel and Uber or Lyft drivers a few bucks, while taxi drivers receive 15% to 20%. Tip bartenders $1 per drink or extra for sophisticated specialty cocktails.
- Bring your bags.
Pack some reusable bags for your journey. California passed Proposition 67, which banned free food store shopping bags. As a result, each bag costs at least ten cents. More states will soon implement this, so having some reusable bags on hand is always a good idea.
- Documents
When traveling outside your country, bringing all the necessary paperwork is critical. This comprises a passport or ID, a travel schedule, and required visas or permissions. Keeping copies of these documents in case the originals are lost is also advisable.
If you intend to drive, bring a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. You may require extra documentation, such as immunization certificates or proof of negative COVID-19 test results, depending on your location. Before leaving, ensure you understand your destination’s entrance procedures and have all the relevant paperwork.
- Medicines
When traveling to California, bringing any prescriptions you may require is critical. This is especially essential given that California is prone to flames and smoke. These flames can exacerbate respiratory disorders such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In addition, the state is vulnerable to natural disasters, which can interrupt medicine supplies and medical care. As a result, you should bring adequate medication for your trip plus any extra days in case of unexpected delays or emergencies.
Always duplicate your prescription and medicine list in their original packaging to minimize customs complications.
- Consider purchasing access passes.
California is well-known for its numerous national parks, as well as its adventure and theme parks. There are numerous ways to make visiting these destinations easier. For about $80, you may get an annual National Park Pass, which grants access to nearly 2,000 sites. Get a FastPass to book ahead and gain preferential access to Disneyland’s many rides, or a Front of the Line pass at Universal Studios.
Conclusion
California is a beautiful state with a variety of sights and activities. However, it is critical to be prepared for your trip and remember these vital items when visiting California.
It is also strongly advised to plan and arrange your hotels, tickets, and transportation beforehand. With this crucial advice, your trip to California can be an unforgettable and delightful experience.
With sound preparation, there’s no better playground for memorable adventures. Let California’s kaleidoscope of natural beauty, global cultures, culinary creativity, and coastal charisma ignite your wanderlust dreams.
Now that you’ve learned everything, be ready to discover the beauty of the Golden State and everything it offers!