Packing for LA28 is less about bringing more and more about carrying the right items through long, transit-heavy event days. Use this list as a planning framework, then replace assumptions with the final bag policy for each venue.
Important: LA28 has not published final venue bag and prohibited-item rules. Check your ticket and the official event page shortly before every session; policies can vary by venue.
The Core Day Bag
- Mobile ticket and an offline copy of essential confirmations.
- Government-issued identification if required.
- Phone, short charging cable and compact power bank.
- Payment card plus a small emergency backup.
- Prescription medication in appropriate packaging.
- Sunglasses, hat and travel-size sunscreen.
- Lightweight layer for evenings and air-conditioned interiors.
- Empty reusable bottle only if the venue policy permits it.
Choose the smallest comfortable bag that meets the published policy. A transparent stadium bag is not automatically accepted everywhere, and a normal backpack is not automatically prohibited everywhere. The session-specific rule is what matters.
Dress for Microclimates
Southern California summers are generally dry, but conditions vary across the region. Coastal Long Beach, Venice and Santa Monica can feel cooler than inland Pasadena, the Valley or Pomona. A single day can include direct afternoon sun, an air-conditioned train and a breezy waterfront evening.
Wear breathable layers, broken-in walking shoes and socks that handle heat. Avoid making the Games the first test of new footwear. If your seat is exposed, a brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing can be more reliable than repeatedly applying sunscreen.
| Venue setting | Likely comfort issue | Useful item |
|---|---|---|
| Beach / waterfront | Sun, breeze, cooler evening | Hat and light layer |
| Inland outdoors | Heat and limited shade | Breathable clothing and sunscreen |
| Indoor arena | Air conditioning | Packable layer |
| Long transit day | Walking and charging | Supportive shoes and power bank |
Medication and Health Items
Bring enough medication for the trip plus a delay buffer. Keep critical medication in your carry-on rather than checked luggage, and store it according to medical guidance. If you need needles, liquids, cooling packs or other medically necessary items, contact LA28 accessibility support and review airline rules.
Consider blister care, any clinician-approved pain relief, hand sanitizer and a compact mask for crowded transit or personal health needs. Do not create an oversized first-aid kit that conflicts with the venue bag limit.
Technology That Earns Its Space
Download airline, hotel, LA28 and transit apps before arrival. Save the hotel address, ticket confirmation, travel-insurance details and emergency contacts offline. A small power bank is valuable because navigation, photography and mobile tickets can drain a battery quickly.
International visitors should confirm roaming or purchase an eSIM before landing. Bring a U.S.-compatible plug adapter; the United States uses Type A and B outlets and 120-volt electricity. Check that each device supports the voltage before connecting it.
For Families
- Write a caregiver phone number on a card carried by each child.
- Pack familiar snacks only if outside food is permitted.
- Bring child hearing protection for loud sessions.
- Choose a compact change of clothes for younger children.
- Take a current photo each morning to record what the child is wearing.
Stroller rules, family restrooms and child-entry requirements may differ by venue. Check before leaving the hotel rather than at the screening line.
Accessibility Additions
Pack charging equipment, backup communication cards, repair contacts and detachable-device labels as needed. Keep accommodation approvals and accessible ticket details available offline. Service-animal handlers should carry routine supplies while following venue rules.
For powered mobility devices, confirm airline battery procedures and ground-transport dimensions in advance. Read our accessible LA28 travel guide for a full checklist.
What to Leave at the Hotel
Unless the final policy clearly permits them, avoid large umbrellas, bulky camera equipment, glass containers, oversized banners, hard-sided coolers, tools, aerosol cans and anything that could slow screening. Secure passports and excess cash in the hotel safe when appropriate.
Night-before routine: Check the weather, transit alerts, mobile-ticket status and venue bag policy. Charge every device, refill medication and remove anything prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will every LA28 venue use the same bag policy?
Do not assume so. Temporary and permanent venues may publish different size limits and prohibited-item lists.
Do I need a jacket in July?
A lightweight layer is useful for coastal evenings, indoor arenas and air-conditioned transit even when the afternoon is warm.
Can I bring a refillable water bottle?
Final rules are not yet available. Many events allow an empty bottle of a specified material and size, but you must check the policy for your session.