California is a snow bird’s dream destination, but getting there isn’t always possible. Still, if you have the opportunity to head to the Golden State this time around, then you’ll want to pay attention to these tips. You need to know more about California so that you experience the best the beautiful state has to offer.

Dealing With the Heat

California is sunny, so the first thing you should consider if you’re thinking of taking a trip is the potential heat. Make sure your AC is in good condition so that you’re always comfortable. Remember, Southern California is known for traffic, so it’s more than possible that you’ll be stuck in traffic for an hour just to get to your destination. Make sure you pack enough sunscreen and that your vehicle’s windows are shaded so that you can withstand all that sun. You’ll be happy you’ve taken these steps once you get there.

Getting Your Clothes Right

The next thing you want to consider is your clothes. You may be thinking you can come to this state with summer clothes, and comfortable wedges are perfect for the warmer California weather. California’s winters can be warm, so you’re mostly right, but that story changes at night. Some snowbirds make the mistake of thinking California doesn’t get cold at all. You don’t need a huge coat or anything, but you should still bring a jacket or sweater if you’re going to be out at night.

Opt for a Travel Guide

Southern California has a lot going on. It can feel overwhelming when you first get there. You won’t know where to begin since there’s so much to do, but a useful guide can lead you in the right direction. Sure, some people might have some must-go locations like the Hollywood sign or maybe In-N-Out Burger, but you’ll see so much more. There are some downloadable guides online that you can use, or you can hire a local guide to help you get the most out of your experience when you get to where you want to be.

Find Your Spot

If you’re going to be in Southern California, you need to face the fact that staying in a nice hotel will probably be expensive. If you’ve planned for this, that’s good. If you haven’t done so, then do so now. You can find cheap places to stay in most states, but this part of California is usually pretty expensive. Even some of the most subpar establishments are going to be pricey. It might be a good idea to consider alternatives if you don’t want to pay this much, like a home share or something similar.

Plan for Transportation

There’s a lot to see in this part of the state, and that means you’ll need to do a lot of traveling. It’s important to figure out how you’re going to get around. Those who are taking a road trip to the state don’t have to worry about this, but if you aren’t doing that, then there are other things to consider. You can buy a daily, weekly, or monthly Metro Pass that’ll allow you to ride trains and buses. You could also opt to rent a vehicle, but you should know that gas prices in California are exceptionally high, so choose a car that’s good on gas.

Hopefully, this guide makes this trip much more comfortable and enjoyable for you and anyone who comes along. You’re getting the chance to enjoy mild winters, and you’re doing it in style.