Planning
Because of our schedules my sister and I started brainstorming our California trip months in advance. After lots of phone calls, we decided on our two main destinations–San Francisco and the giant Sequoias in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. I didn’t know California very well, so this was definitely a learning experience, and exercise in mindfulness!
It’s always a good plan to do your research, and I spent hours on trip adviser and Airbnb looking at reviews of different hotels and rentals. I finally decided on The Kensington Park Hotel in San Francisco in the heart of Union Square, and a beautiful AirBnB rental in Three Rivers, California just minutes away from the Sequoias. They were perfect both for my solo travel leg of the trip and and for after my sister arrived. More on the historic Kensington and our gorgeous Airbnb in a later post.
Packing
Figuring out what to take on this trip in September was a challenge! The San Francisco forecast was rainy and cool, but the forecast for Three Rivers–a five hour drive south– was sunny and 102 degrees! I knew I needed some key items in my suitcase. but first, I really needed a new suitcase.
I’m not a Zen packer. I take lots of things that make me feel comfortable and at home no matter where I go, especially when I’m traveling solo. For this trip I definitely needed new luggage. After searching, I decided on this great Samsonite suitcase 
My Absolute Essentials for San Francisco
I love to blend in with the local scene, and even though I’m a long way from being a millennial, I like to feel fashionable, a little hip, and young–all the while being really comfortable. Luckily San Francisco style makes it easy to do all those things! Here are my SF essentials:
Number 1–blue jean jacket. I wore my jean jacket constantly in San Francisco. Rain or shine. It was the perfect weight for cool mornings and just the right casual style for the trip. Pro tip: bring one with lots of pockets. You’ll use them!
Number 2 –jeans, of course, to go with your jacket. Which ever are your favorites. Because I don’t travel light I took different kinds. All stretchy and comfy.
Number 3–light weight scarf. You will need this, believe me! Choose one made really light weight fabric that you can just stuff in the pocket of your jacket, or into the next essential item–
Number 4–a roomy, light weight tote bag. You will carry this everywhere. I mean everywhere. I carried my phone and an extra wireless charger in my tote because I use my gps when I get (mindfully) lost. As well as maps, brochures, souvenirs, and the occasional half sandwich. And since the weather can change on a dime in San Francisco, I looked for a tote that was roomy enough to carry things I needed just in case. If the sun pops out, you may want to put your jean jacket in your tote bag! And although I didn’t take one, it’s good to pack a lightweight hooded windbreaker or slicker. I also carried a small cross body purse for my keys, wallet, lipsticks, and spare change.
Number 5–comfortable shoes. I have a confession to make. I can only wear one brand of shoes these days. I have to have major arch support, and I love to walk for miles when I travel. Vionic Shoes have literally made this possible for me after I thought an injury a few years back had stopped me in my tracks. For this trip, I took a pair of sandals which I wore all over San Francisco, and a pair of boots, both Vionic. And in San Francisco I walked five to ten miles a day! Thanks Vionic!
Mindfullness tip for planning
Deliberate breathing. Whether I’m really enjoying the process of planning or feeling overwhelmed, I can forget to stand up, walk around, step outside to look at the sun and away from blue light, and breathe. My best quickest breathing technique to reset is to exhale quickly and inhale slowly three to six time times. This takes a full minute if I really connect, and works well to reset my mind and body.
What are your San Francisco Travel Essentials? I’d love to hear them!