Lifestyle:
how to survive a desert Vacation
by Regina Mamou, Director of Art Muse LA, 1 March 2023.
Desert X, an art biennial in and around Coachella Valley, begins on March 4, 2023, so this is the perfect time to start preparing to visit an arid climate. As many art lovers know, this area in Southern California can be very hot and very cold on the same day. So we hope this list creates extra comfort on your excursion, whether you are going to Desert X, visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, or checking out A–Z West near Joshua Tree National Park.
Daily Protection Face Lotion - Broad Spectrum SPF 30 by Eucerin
If there is one thing you should always remember to bring on a desert excursion, it is sun protection. Eucerin makes a great SPF that is non-greasy, feels light, and doesn’t break the bank.
$9.19 on www.amazon.com
Hike Classic Edition Extra Cushion Crew Socks by Smartwool
Desert hiking is one of the best ways to explore flora and fauna of your environment. So, you’ll want to invest in a good hiking sock. Smartwool is the classic go-to sock for hikers. Fully cushioned and comfy, these socks keep your feet happy, and warm at night!
$24 on www.smartwool.com
20 oz TKWide Insulated Water Bottle with Twist Cap by Klean Kanteen
Of course, being hydrated is one of the most important aspects of desert life. Klean Kanteen makes a lightweight, insulated water bottle. The best part is that you can buy all sorts of interchangeable lids for your bottle to transition from a twist cap to a straw cap, and more.
$34.95 on www.kleankanteen.com
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp by Petzl
Depending on where you’re staying, you might find yourself off-the-grid in a beautiful, ambient light-free area perfect for stargazing. If that’s the case, you will want to pack a headlamp to help you navigate the terrain at night. Petzl makes an award-winning, bright headlamp that’s easy to put on and use. The best part? It comes with a rechargeable battery.
$79.95 on www.rei.com
Keb Padded Hoodie W by Fjällräven
Why do you need a jacket in the desert? Well, temperatures can change drastically from day to night, sometimes by 20 °F (or approximately 11 °C). Fjällräven, a Swedish company, makes packable, light jackets that keep you cozy but not sweaty. Their jackets are also stylish without added bulky.
$250 on www.fjallraven.com
Packable Fedora by Rag & Bone
To keep you cool throughout the day, you’ll want a hat. While a baseball cap can do the trick, a wider-brimmed, stylish straw fedora will cover your face and neck. Rag & Bone makes one with an added bonus: no hat boxes needed!
$250 on www.rag-bone.com
Midnight Sun Reversible Throw by Blacksaw
Stunning and simple, Blacksaw makes incredibly luxurious blankets perfect for desert nights. Not only is this throw reversible, but all of their designs can also be converted to wall art with their custom hangers.
$398 on www.blacksaw.co
Hemlock Polarized Pro Sunglasses by MYKITA
Sunglasses are super important to fend off glares, stares, and reflections. MYKITA is a major splurge, but the German brand creates some of the sleekest designs with UV protection – this is eyewear that can last a lifetime if well cared for.
$599 on www.mykita.com
*Art Muse LA is not sponsoring nor being sponsored by any of these brands.