Summer Travel Tips for Las Vegas

It is April and here in Las Vegas we have already set a record temperature – 94 degrees on the 11th (old record was 93). We are in the middle of the Mohave Desert, where summer temperatures top out at 117 degrees.

Here are some summer travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Pack light: Summer weather usually means lighter clothing, so try to pack only what you need to save space and make traveling easier. Do pack for layers though. Temperatures fall rapidly when the sun goes down. Also casinos tend to keep their interiors ice box chilly. You will appreciate carrying around a light jacket or sweater for when the temperatures plunge.
2. Stay hydrated: The heat and sun can quickly dehydrate you, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up whenever you have the chance. Don’t wait to drink water, best to just sip it all day long. Even better, when you drink alcohol in Vegas also drink some water – ie one beer, one water alternating. Alcohol actually dehydrates people, so too much alcohol and too much heat can be deadly.
3. Protect yourself from the sun: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Also if you have winter-pale sking, think twice before getting into too skin revealing outfits. The desert sun’s rays are intense in Vegas. It can take less than an hour to get a significant sunburn. Think light pants or skirts and lots of sunscreen.
4. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon: The hottest part of the day is usually midday to about 6 pm, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. It still amazes me that my second most popular tour I lead is a walking tour of the Las Vegas Strip that starts at 1 pm – the very hottest part of the day! I lug around a lot of bottled water to keep my folks safe.
5. Check the weather forecast: Summer weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast before you leave and pack accordingly.
6. Bring a portable fan or mister: A portable fan or mister can be a lifesaver on hot summer days, especially if you’re exploring a city on foot.
7. Plan indoor activities: If it’s too hot to be outside, plan indoor activities like visiting museums, shopping, or check out Las Vegas mid-day shows to keep you inside, cool and entertained..
8. Be flexible: Summer travel can be busy and unpredictable, so be flexible with your plans and expect some delays or crowds. Stay positive and enjoy your trip!