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Neon Tommy - Annenberg digital news

Ultimate Packing Guide For Your 2014 Spring Break

Michelle Tak |
March 8, 2014 | 6:02 p.m. PST

Staff Reporter

Lately, the struggle has been real for most of us here at USC. It's midterm season, but the only thing on our minds is the countdown to spring break! Whether you're retreating to the gorgeous backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park, taking a scenic road trip with friends to NorCal, flying out to the concrete jungles of NYC, or simply starting your summer early at Cabo—Neon Tommy has you covered with the "Ultimate Packing Guide For Your 2014 Spring Break."

(Chic Camping Polyvore @michelletak)
(Chic Camping Polyvore @michelletak)

Chic Camping

For those escaping from L.A.'s ebullient city scene to be one with Mother Nature, here are a couple of "do-pack" items for your peaceful getaway.

If your retreat grounds are within the boundaries of the great Golden State, it's safe to say that there will be some sort of hiking involved. These L.L. Bean Boots provide the perfect traction for trekking through those steep inclines, while this eco-friendly glass bottle from bkr acts as a great alternative to the disposable ones. 

With this Western-vintage style denim shirt coupled with these frayed denim shorts, you don't have to compromise comfort for style.

This Sun Bum moisturizing sunscreen lotion gives you the best of both worlds—it's hydrates and protects your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Oh, and did I mention it's paraben free?

This waterproof daypack from The North Face is lightweight and ideal for carrying your belongings.

It wouldn't be the ultimate camping experience without building your own tent. This REI tent is rewarding to finish, as you can begin basking in its spacious and free-standing design right away.

This North Face mummy sleeping bag, along with a portable Camp Chef cooking system, will also contribute to your relaxing stay with nature.

As the night blankets the sky with stars, there's no better way to reinforce the natural lighting with this affordable Coleman camp lantern.

(Road Trip Relaxation Polyvore @michelletak)
(Road Trip Relaxation Polyvore @michelletak)

Road Trip Relaxation

It's just you, your friends and the open road. Here are a couple of necessities for the trip to your spring break destination.

Comfort is key when it comes to long trips. With this asymmetrical sweater design, these go-to leggings and these comfortable slip-on booties, you're sure to feel snug.

This see-through makeup bag from Nasty Gal is perfect for the road. Its transparent character allows for you to quickly find the essentials you're looking for. 

Speaking of essentials, this GPS is perfect for mapping out your trip and is first-time-user friendly with its self-explanatory functions.

Skip the powder beverage mixes and get your hands on this flavor-infusing water bottle. This way, you can infuse your favorite fruit flavor naturally. So tasty!

3…2…1…cheese! A camera is a must to capture those picture-perfect moments with friends or even some takes of the scenery on your drive there.

One word. Playlist

This soft, undyed, untreated, 100% Egyptian cotton blanket will keep you warm from the constant blast of the A/C.

Must there be an explanation for food? Here are a couple of our favorite road trip snacks to munch on.

  • Stars Mixed Nuts ($1, Dollar Tree)
  • Pepperidge Farms Xtra Cheddar Goldfish (prices vary, Target)
  • Nature Valley Oats n' Honey Grabola Bar (Prices vary, Target)
  • Quaker Oats Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip (Prices vary, Target)
  • Kashi Trail Mix Bars (Prices vary, Target)
  • Clif Crunch Honey Oat Bar ($4, Amazon)
(Beach Day Chic Polyvore @janicechen)
(Beach Day Chic Polyvore @janicechen)

Beach Fab

The fashion capital that served as the backdrop for Blair and Serena’s stylish series of affairs and more recently, the city that brought us the future trends for Fall 2014, New York is anything but passé. Here are our options for a chic stay in the big city.

 

 

 

 

(Viva La Glam Polyvore @michelletak)
(Viva La Glam Polyvore @michelletak)

Viva La Glam

 

The city’s brightly lit cityscape and alluring attractions are what makes Las Vegas one of the most popular destination spots. Here, we’ve gathered a list of items that emulate the very magnetism of the city. 

The streets of Vegas is your runway, so strut your stuff in these dramatic python printed stiletto heels that accent this black and gold statement dress.

No look would be complete without throwing on a few accessories. This fret clutch is ideal for a glam look. These exotic filigree etched earrings from Kendra Scott are bolded with smoky glass inserts as the leopards’ eyes. Speaking of “smoky” and “eyes,” this Naked 2 eyeshadow palette includes an array of deep shades with some sparkly and matte shadows in between—perfect for creating a dramatic smoky-eye look. Finish the look with a bold red lip and this limited edition mascara by Bobbie Brown.  

(Tropical Vacation Polyvore @janicechen)
(Tropical Vacation Polyvore @janicechen)

Tropical Vacation

 

Dive into the crystal clear waters of the tropics, swim with the dolphins and bask on the warm sands with coconut water at hand. But before you do, make sure you have these beach-perfect essentials. 

It's time to liven up your wardrobe with a pastel palette. This apricot bandeau top and slightly cinched bikini bottom will sure to make a statement on the beach. A wide-brimmed sun hat and beach shirt are also wardrobe staples for your tropical vacay.

(Check out more bikini styles here.)

These adorable jelly flip-flops are an absolute essential for the beach. They're waterproof, so they won’t leave your feet pruny. This travel friendly beach towel with a neon zebra print is a plus for a tropical getaway, as is this complementary filter bottle. Also, for any sunny getaways, some stylish shades and sunscreen are crucial. 

Relax in the sun listening to your favorite music with this wireless speaker

Now pack all your beach-day necessities in this printed Lilly tote bag, and you’re ready to go!                                                              

 

Reach Staff Reporter Michelle Tak here.



 

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