Packing List For Florida: What to Pack For a Sunny Vacation

Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the US, especially if you love beaches and amusement parks. Florida is a fun place to visit but requires meticulous packing, so you'll be prepared to enjoy the trip. 

Find all the essentials you need to pack for a trip to Florida right here. No matter where in the Sunshine State you're going or what activities you'll be doing, I've listed things you'll need to bring to Florida to enjoy your trip.

I've also added more detailed Florida packing lists if you plan on going to amusement parks, the beach, camping, or traveling with kids. Helping you ensure you have everything you could possibly need.

Or course, to pack for a Florida vacation, you'll need a good luggage, and packing cubes to help fit everything in. Now, grab your shades and sunscreen, and let's get packing!

Florida Packing List Essentials

Planning a trip to Florida? Exciting! There's a lot to do and see in Florida. It's one of the most popular travel destinations in the US for a reason. Here are some things you need to pack for a trip to Florida, no matter where you're going or what you have planned. 

Clothes

Pack at least one shirt for every day of the trip, plus some shorts or long pants, depending on the weather. Dresses are also an excellent option, especially if you visit in the summer or want to go to nice dinners or clubbing. You'll also need socks and underwear. 

Shoes

Sandals are the best shoe option in Florida, so your feet don't get too hot. You can likely get away with bringing only one or two pairs of shoes. But bring some fancier footwear if you'll be clubbing or going out to nice dinners. 

Bathroom Items

Remember to pack all the bathroom essentials like a toothbrush, shampoo, and deodorant. You should also bring your makeup bag if you wear any, especially if you plan on taking cute pics for the gram. 

Sunscreen and Sunglasses

Unless you plan to spend your entire Florida vacation inside, you must protect yourself from the hot sun. Bring plenty of sunscreen and at least one pair of sunglasses. A hat that shades your face and neck is also a good idea. 

Travel Essentials

You'll also want to pack the items you need on any trip, including your wallet, cash, ID, phone charger, and headphones. If driving to Florida, ensure you can access GPS and a car phone charger to stay connected. You should also pack a travel pillow and a good book!

Reusable Water Bottle

Florida has excellent but hot weather most of the year. You need to stay hydrated on your trip, and a reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated, save money, and be sustainable. 

If you plan to go to the beach, amusement parks, or camping on your trip to Florida, check out the Florida packing lists below for additional items you'll want to bring along. 

Florida Beach Vacation Packing List

Since Florida is a peninsula, there are beaches surrounding the entire state. You'll find beautiful beaches on the panhandle, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Here are some items to add to your Florida packing list if you'll be hitting up the beach or pool:

• Swimsuit and cover-up
• Beach towel
• Beach chair
• Beach umbrella
• Extra sunscreen
• Cooler with drinks and snacks
• Beach toys and games
• Flip flops or other waterproof shoes
• Beach bag
• Waterproof phone case
• Floaties and inflatables
• Book

Use this beach vacation packing list no matter where you're traveling for your beach trip. Be prepared so you can spend your trip relaxing in the sun and not worrying that you forgot something. 

Packing List for a Florida Amusement Park Trip 

Another popular reason to travel to Florida is to visit the many fun amusement parks. Everyone knows that Orlando is packed with some of the best theme parks in the world, like Disney World. 

If Disney World isn't quite your scene, there are also the Miami theme parks or others like Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay. 

No matter where you're going, here are some additional items you'll want to pack for visiting amusement parks in Florida:

• Good walking shoes
• Lightweight clothing
• Small bag (check the rules for each specific park)
• Snacks (if allowed)
• Cash (if the park accepts it)
• Admission tickets, if purchased in advance
• Rain jacket
• Waterproof phone pouch (if going to a waterpark or it could rain)
• Portable fan
• Hand sanitizer

If you're planning a trip to Florida, specifically to visit Disney World, use this Disney World packing list for a magical and memorable trip.

Packing for Camping in Florida

Another popular thing to do in Florida is camping, so check out some of the Miami or Orlando campsites for ideas on the perfect camping trip to Florida. Depending on if you will be using a tent, bringing an RV, or renting a cabin, you'll need to bring some extra items when you pack for Florida: 

• Tent and assembly items
• Sleeping bag and bedding
• Food and cooking utensils
• Grill
• Cooler and ice
• Tarp
• Rain gear
• Bug spray
• Camping chairs
• Firepit, wood, and a lighter
• Flashlights
• First aid kit
• Hiking shoes and gear

Check out the complete camping packing list so you don't forget anything for your next off-road adventure. 

Traveling to Florida with Kids

Finally, Florida is a popular destination to travel with kids, especially during breaks from school. Traveling with kids can be difficult or overwhelming, but it won't be if you're prepared with everything your kids need! 

If you're a family taking the kids on a trip to Florida, you'll need to pack:

• Games and activities
• Sunscreen and sunglasses made for kids/babies
• Kids medication
• Floatation devices for beach and pool
• Clothes that can get dirty (for the beach, camping, playing outside)
• Baby gear (Stroller, diapers, food, bed, booster seat)

No matter where you're traveling with the kids, this complete kids' packing list will ensure you have everything you need for a fun family trip.

Have Fun in Florida!

Now that you know what to pack for your Florida vacation, you can start to craft your ideal travel experience for you, your family, and your friends.