There is nothing quite like a vacation to Florida. The sun, the sand, a cold drink in your hand- it might as well be paradise! This guide will give you the ultimate Florida packing list so you don’t forget a single thing for your trip!
As someone who used to live in St. Augustine, Florida, I have become well aware of what types of items travelers will need for a successful vacation here.
Depending on where exactly you are traveling to in Florida, you might need some different items. For example, if you are traveling to the Northern part of the state in the winter, you might need some warmer clothes (Yes, believe it or not, parts of Florida can get a little chilly in the winter time!)
However, for the most part, Florida is known as the sunshine state for a good reason- most of the time, it is sunny and warm (which I’m sure is exactly why you are traveling here!) Check out these summer essentials for more ideas on what to add to your Florida packing list!
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Best Luggage for Travel
The very first thing you need on your Florida packing list is a sturdy and reliable bag to pack everything in! We travel a lot, and I can say it is so important to have luggage that is going to hold up- You don’t want your bag bursting in the middle of the airport, right before you’re about to get on your plane!
However, I am a huge proponent of budget travel, so I also value reliable items that also won’t break the bank! I have used a ton of different bags, totes, and suitcases, and I have finally found one that has enough room to pack everything I need, will hold up through the stresses of travel, and is friendly on the wallet!
This travel tote is my all time favorite, not only because it is functional and sturdy, but because it is also super cute! I go more into depth about this carry on bag and why I love it in this post, so be sure to check it out if you want more information!
The Ultimate Florida Packing List!
Now that you’ve got a sturdy bag to put all your items in, let’s go over some of the most important items you should have on your Florida packing list for a successful vacation! Don’t forget, to check out this guide of the best packing tips, to help you get everything in your suitcase without breaking the zipper!
1. High Quality Sunscreen
One of the most important things to put on your Florida packing list is some high quality sunscreen. While this might seem obvious as you are traveling to somewhere sunny any warm, a gentle reminder to care for your skin doesn’t hurt!
I always have sunscreen on me because my skin burns very easily. However, I do understand many of you probably want to get a little tan- after all, you’ve got to look like you went somewhere, right?!
Even with sunscreen, you will probably still get tan, though your skin will be a little more protected. I recommend Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen. I hate when sunscreen leaves your skin oily and greasy, but this sunscreen leaves you feeling dry and comfortable!
For your face, I recommend Olay Whips SPF 25. This stuff is amazing! I use it everyday- it is light enough to wear under makeup, while still moisturizing and protecting your skin! It is hands down my favorite facial moisturizer I have used yet, and doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy.
If you already have a favorite sunscreen you like to use, be sure to check out these other ways of avoiding sunburn and protecting your skin– your skin will surely thank you!
2. Cute Bathing Suit and Cover Up
When traveling to Florida, chances are, you will be headed to the beach or pool at least once or twice! For this reason, make sure you add a cute bathing suit and cover up to your Florida packing list!
There are so many fun and beautiful beaches along the Florida coast, that you’ll definitely want to take a dip in the ocean or catch some rays in at least one of them!
Amazon has so many cute bathing suits, so be sure to check out their selection! They have one-pieces, bikinis, and suits that will make anyone feel confident!
If you are feeling less than confident in your bathing suit at the beach, no worries! Check out these tips to feel more confident in your body, especially while at the beach!
Additionally, you’ll likely also want to get a cute coverup for the beach or pool. Often times in Florida there are restaurants and shops that line the beaches. You will likely need to cover up a bit to enter these places, so make sure you have a cute cover for your bathing suit!
3. Selfie Stick Tripod Stand with Bluetooth
One of the more unique things that should be on your Florida packing list is this selfie stick tripod with Bluetooth control remote! If you’ve read some of my other posts, you know how much I love this thing!
Here’s how it works. You unfold the tripod stand and place your phone at the top with the camera on. Grab the little remote, pose for your picture, and click the button on the remote to take your picture!
My favorite part about this tripod is that you can take tons of pictures all in a row, catching all of those cute and funny candids. Plus, you don’t have to awkwardly ask a stranger to take your picture, which is a huge plus!
We take this on every vacation we go on, when we take hikes, and whenever we want to take a cute couples picture in peace!
I have a whole post dedicated to talking more about this awesome tripod, along with some selfie tips!
4. Anti-Humidity Hair Products
Another item you need on your Florida packing list is some anti-humidity hair products. If you’ve never been to the ocean or live in a dry climate, your hair is in for a huge awakening!
I grew up in a pretty humid climate, then moved to Colorado where the air is super dry. The difference it makes for my hair is astounding! We recently traveled back to the East coast and I pretty much gave up on my hair because the humidity just took over!
For some, the humidity might help your hair by giving it more volume. However, forget trying to straighten your hair- the moisture in the air has other plans!
You can, however, try this anti-humidity hair spray to help tame your luscious mane a bit! My advice though- embrace your new hair and let it go free!
Check out these other beauty tips for travelers you will definitely find helpful!
5. Cute Beach Bag
Like I mentioned earlier on this list, chances are, you are going to be going to the beach or pool at least once on your trip. For this reason, you’ll definitely need some sort of bag to carry all your belongings with you to the beach or pool!
As someone who used to live in Florida, my beach bag got a lot of use out of it! I recommend one with mesh sides like this one so the sand can easily be sifted through (and less will end up in your car or house!)
You could use a backpack or other tote bag, though it will get super sandy and wet- and no one wants to deal with all that! As a traveler, choose one that can easily be folded up to fit nicely into your suitcase and won’t take up too much room.
Wondering what items to pack in your beach bag? Check out this list of beach essentials so you have everything prepared for your epic day at the beach!
PS. Check out this beach bag that secretly holds and dispenses 2 bottles of wine!
6. Products to Stay Cool and Comfortable
If you are going on any hot summer vacation, you’ll need to prepare your mind and body for the intense heat that often exists, especially in Florida. You don’t want to get to your long awaited vacation, only to be miserable because the heat is too unbearable!
Here is a list of items that will help you stay cool, even in the hottest of temperatures:
- Cooling facial mist: Simply spray it on your face and neck to feel the cooling cucumber refresh your skin!
- Cooling Towels: When the heat is getting too much for you to handle, pour some water over these towels, wring it out, and the towel will activate and stay cold for 3 hours!
- Handheld fan: This mini fan is perfect for any hot vacation! It is small enough to fit in your purse or day bag, and can really come in handy when the sun is blazing down on you!
- Bladeless neck fan: This fan is seriously so cool! It sits comfortably on your neck, and blows 5 speed of air around your neck and head. It is rechargeable and can last up to 21 hours!
- Cold Shower Wipes: When you are hot and sweaty, all you can think about is taking a nice cold shower. Now you can on the go with these cooling wipes!
7. Cute Hat
Another item you need on your Florida packing list is a cute hat to help protect your face and scalp from the sun! Floppy hats are great because they add a layer of protection to your shoulders and back that baseball caps often miss!
However, any hat is better than none! I like these baseball caps with ponytail holes because they make it so much easier for you to put your hair up and wear a hat at the same time!
Wondering how to pack a floppy hat in your suitcase without bending it? Check out these packing tips!
8. Day Bag or Backpack
Regardless of where you are traveling to, a day bag or backpack is essential! Typically when traveling, you will be away from your hotel most of the day. For this reason, you’ll need a bag to put everything you will need for the entire day!
The last thing you want to do when sightseeing is to realize you forgot an important item back at the hotel because you had no pockets to put it in.
Having a lightweight day bag or backpack allows you to carry all those important items with you comfortably!
In your day bag, you’ll want to pack items like a water bottle, sunscreen, phones and portable chargers, sunglasses, etc. Check out this list of other sightseeing essentials you need to have on you for a successful day!
9. Comfy Sandals
Another item you need to add to your Florida packing list are a pair or two of comfy sandals. You will probably be doing a lot of walking during your trip, so you won’t want a pair of sandals that will give you blisters!
You could wear a cute pair of sneakers depending on what you are doing, however, chances are you’ll want to wear a cute dress or romper with sandals at some point!
Plus, sneakers can make your feet sweaty and uncomfortable at times. Additionally, sometimes the heat can make your feet swell, making wearing sneakers unbearable! Be sure to pack at least one pair of sandals or flip flops that keep your feet happy!
10. Collapsible Water Bottle
The last thing you need on your Florida packing list is a collapsible water bottle. Hydration is super important when traveling, but especially when it is hot outside! You will likely be doing a lot of walking, spending a lot of time in the sun, drinking alcohol, or eating salty and unhealthy foods. For these reasons, it is key that you remember to drink a lot of water!
I love these collapsible water bottles because they are so easy to pack up and use when traveling. When they are empty, all you need to do is fold it up and it can fit easily into your purse or day bag!
Plus, having reusable water bottles can save you tons of money on your trip, since you aren’t spending a few dollars every few hours buying a water bottle from a vending machine!
What's Next?
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