Desert Road Trip Packing List Includes Comfy Staples

From breezy dresses to elevated jellies, these 6 items made the author's recent Joshua Tree getaway a breeze.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:00pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph depicting a woman's legs and feet wearing various pairs of shoes and sandals, including jelly flats, Mary Janes, and flip-flops, against a blurred background of desert landscape, conveying the relaxed and comfortable mood of a road trip.The author's carefully curated road trip wardrobe, including comfortable and stylish footwear options, captures the carefree spirit of a desert getaway.Palm Springs Today

The author, a self-proclaimed road trip enthusiast, recently visited Joshua Tree National Park and shares the 6 key wardrobe staples she packed for the high-desert getaway, including a lightweight cotton top, Rothy's Mary Jane flats, a Dôen poplin maxi dress, sparkly Steve Madden jelly sandals, a soft cashmere sweater, and a pair of Levi's denim shorts.

Why it matters

The author's packing list highlights versatile, comfortable pieces that can transition from day to night and handle the fluctuating desert temperatures, making them ideal for any road trip or weekend getaway.

The details

The author's road trip wardrobe included a 100% cotton linen top that can be worn through the summer, Rothy's cushioned Mary Jane flats that kept her comfortable after 14,000 steps, a lightweight Dôen poplin maxi dress with a flattering cinched waist, Steve Madden's elevated jelly sandals with rhinestones, a soft cashmere sweater perfect for cool desert nights, and a pair of Levi's denim shorts with a longer hemline.

  • The author visited Joshua Tree National Park, located about an hour from Palm Springs, last weekend.

The players

Reece Andavolgyi

The author of the article and a self-proclaimed road trip enthusiast.

Dôen

A clothing brand known for its signature maxi dresses that the author has long admired.

Rothy's

A shoe brand that makes the author's go-to comfortable and lightweight Mary Jane flats.

Steve Madden

A footwear brand that created the author's elevated jelly sandals with rhinestones.

Levi's

The denim brand behind the author's favorite Middy Jorts.

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What they’re saying

“Few things excite me more than vanilla perfumes, my dog, and road trips.”

— Reece Andavolgyi, Author

The takeaway

The author's packing list showcases how to build a versatile, comfortable wardrobe for any road trip or weekend getaway, with a focus on breathable fabrics, supportive shoes, and elevated casual pieces that can transition from day to night.