What to Wear in Las Vegas

Las Vegas dresses in two modes. By day, almost anything goes: shorts, T-shirts, trainers and flip-flops by the pool. At night, the city smartens up, and the nightclubs enforce it.

Start with shoes. You will walk far more than you expect, across casino floors, through shopping malls and over bridges, and ten miles in a day is common on the Strip. Bring comfortable, worn-in shoes for the day and change for the evening.

Nightclubs and some lounges have dress codes, and bouncers apply them at the door. Men generally need closed shoes and long trousers or smart jeans, and athletic wear, baseball caps and flip-flops are usually refused. Women face fewer written rules, but very casual clothes can still be turned away. Check the club's own website, because codes vary. Upscale restaurants and steakhouses expect smart casual; shows don't have a dress code at all.

Casinos, theatres and restaurants keep the air conditioning cold year round. Even in July, carry a light layer for a long dinner or a two-hour show.

In summer, dress for the desert when you're outside: a hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen and light, loose clothes. Pavements get hot enough to burn bare feet, so keep flip-flops for the pool. From November to February, evenings are cold, especially with the wind, and a warm jacket earns its place (the seasons guide has the temperatures).

For day trips to Red Rock or Valley of Fire, wear proper hiking shoes with grip; sandstone is slippery with sand. Bring more water than you think you need, and a layer for early starts.

Packing list

• Comfortable, worn-in walking shoes
• Closed shoes and a smarter outfit for the evening
• A light layer for cold casinos and theatres
• Swimwear and flip-flops for the pool
• Hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen
• A refillable water bottle
• Hiking shoes for the desert parks
• A warm jacket from November to February