Some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world are found at high altitude or in the desert. In California, the places you can go in the Sierra Nevada mountains can be over 10,000 feet high or travel to the hottest place on earth, a desert that seems to burn in the summer. If you are planning a trip to high or dry places, this checklist will help you stay comfortable and safe.
Fight dryness when you travel
The air is much drier in the mountains than it is at sea level, and the desert is drier than that. Take them to be comfortable:
Saline Nasal Spray – Dry nasal membranes are not only uncomfortable, they can also cause nosebleeds. A few drops of this over-the-counter remedy can go a long way. Don’t confuse saline spray with decongestant spray, which could make things worse. You are looking for the things that are salt water and nothing else.
Extra Strong Moisturizers: You can take a lot of your regular moisturizer and lotion, but you may want something extra strong. You will also need moisturizer for your lips. You may want to get both with high SPF sunscreen built in.
Artificial tears: put a few packets of artificial tears in your purse or pocket to keep your eyes moist. Not only is the air dry, but the wind may be blowing, making it worse.
Water Bottle Carrier: If you plan to walk, or even if you don’t, the dry air will make you more thirsty than usual. If you carry a water bottle holder, it will be easier to carry it with you. Reduce waste by bringing a bottle too.
Protect against the sun
High SPF Sunscreen – The sun’s rays are strongest at higher elevations, where there is less air to absorb them. Whatever you normally wear, bring something stronger. And don’t forget sunscreen for your lips too.
Hat with a wide brim: A baseball cap will shade your face, but not your neck. You will be better with a hat with a brim around it.
Sunglasses – Intense sunlight can affect the eyes as much as the skin. It’s easy to forget sunglasses, especially if you go out at night. Find a way to remember them or pack a spare pair.
Things to know about the desert
While some desert creatures are just plain nasty, some can be a much bigger problem if they bite you. It won’t hurt to know how to give first aid for a snake bite. The most dangerous desert creatures to watch out for in California are the Mojave Desert Sidewinder Rattlesnake, the Gila Monster, and the Mojave Green Rattlesnake.
Pack a long-sleeved shirt: Despite what you may think, a light-colored long-sleeved cotton shirt will keep you cooler than a tank top because it shades your skin.
Cooling Neck Bands Help – Filled with water absorbent gel, these bands are evaporatively cooled. You just dip them in water and tie them around your neck. They are sold in many sporting goods stores or search online retailers for “gel neck band.”
Bring some sharp-tipped tweezers – cacti seem to sneak around and lodge thorns in your skin when you’re not looking.
Look at your camera equipment – mugwort oils can ruin cameras and tripods. Bring something to clean everything after use.
Learn about altitude sickness
When your body cannot adapt to abrupt changes in altitude, altitude sickness can develop. It causes breathing problems and fluid buildup. The condition is not just a problem for people who climb the highest mountains. It can occur as low as 6,500 feet. Symptoms can start anytime within the first three days after an altitude change. Altitude sickness can be fatal, and you need to know your symptoms and what to do if you are affected.
Motion sickness on the way to the mountains
If you drive to high elevations, you will probably go winding roads. If you are susceptible to motion sickness and have a driver’s license, taking the wheel will probably solve the problem. Or at least that works for me.
Driving high in winter
In some conditions, tire chains (also called “tire traction devices”) are required in California. You will most likely need them on I-80 between Sacramento and Reno and on US Highway 50 between Lake Tahoe and Sacramento. They are also sometimes required on Highway 58 between Bakersfield and Mojave, I-15 between Victorville and San Bernardino, and I-5 between Los Angeles and Bakersfield.
California’s laws on when and where you need snow chains are complicated, and a practical answer is hard to come by, but I did all the research for you. Here’s what you need to know about California tire chain laws.
It is always a good idea to obtain current road conditions before heading to the mountains in winter. GPS and traffic apps can help, but you can also get valuable information from the Department of Transportation on California road conditions.
