Florida Holiday Packing List: What to Bring & What to Skip

Packing for Florida should be easy, right? It’s hot, it’s sunny, you’re going to live in swimwear and flip-flops. But ask anyone who’s been — really been — and they’ll tell you it’s surprisingly easy to overpack, underpack, or just bring the wrong stuff entirely.

Here’s a no-nonsense guide to what you actually need for your Florida holiday — and what you can happily leave behind.

Essentials You’ll Be Glad You Packed

1. Light, breathable clothing (and lots of it)
Florida heat is no joke — especially from April through October. Think cotton, linen, dry-fit. You’ll probably sweat through a couple of outfits a day, so bring extras. T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, and something a bit nicer for dinner are all you need.

2. Comfy shoes (not just flip-flops)
Yes, sandals are a must. But if you’re doing the parks, you’ll be walking miles. Trainers or breathable walking shoes will save your feet. And maybe your mood.

3. Travel-size medical kit
Plasters (for those theme park blisters), painkillers, antihistamines, and bite cream are worth having. American pharmacies are great, but they’re not always nearby, and prices can be eye-watering.

4. Refillable water bottle
Nearly all parks and airports have refill stations. Saves money and keeps you from passing out in the Florida sun.

5. Portable fan or cooling towel
This might sound excessive now, but trust me — come hour four in the queue for Space Mountain, you’ll be glad you have it.

6. Travel documents (physical and digital)
Passports, ESTA printouts, insurance docs, hotel info, and car hire details. Keep hard copies in a folder and email backups to yourself, just in case your phone dies or goes for a swim.

Things to Skip (You Really Won’t Miss Them)

1. Towels
Every hotel, villa, and rental provides them. Even beach towels are often included in villas — and if not, they’re cheap to pick up locally. Save the suitcase space.

2. Too many ‘just-in-case’ outfits
You don’t need four evening dresses or three smart shirts. Most places are casual, even the nice restaurants. Bring one outfit for going out — that’s it.

3. Hairdryers and full-size toiletries
Hotels have hairdryers. Most are decent. And if you need shampoo or suncream, grab it at Walmart or CVS when you arrive. Much easier than wrestling a suitcase shut for 250ml of conditioner.

4. Heavy jumpers or coats
It can get cool in the evenings during winter months (especially January or February), but a light hoodie or long-sleeve shirt is enough. You won’t need a coat. Ever.

5. Loads of books
You’ll be out and about most days. Bring one, maybe two. Don’t try and tackle your whole reading list on this trip.

Bonus Tips From Someone Who’s Overpacked (and Lived to Regret It)

• Pack a small crossbody bag or bum bag for the parks — just big enough for your phone, tickets, cash, and snacks.
• A USB charging hub is a game-changer when you’ve got phones, tablets, and kindles to charge each night.
• Bring a couple of plastic zip-lock bags — for snacks, wet swimwear, or protecting electronics on water rides.
• Sunscreen is cheaper in the UK. Stock up before you go, especially if you’re after specific brands.
• If you’re self-catering, take a stash of tea bags. Proper ones. American “tea” just isn’t the same.

One Last Thing…

Whatever you forget, Florida’s got you covered. There’s a Target, Walmart, or Walgreens on every corner. And if you forget your swimsuit, it’s a great excuse to buy a new one.

Pack light(ish), pack smart, and leave a bit of space for souvenirs — because you will come home with Mickey ears, whether you meant to or not.