Sunset over the Gulf of Mexico
When planning a 10-day vacation to Florida, you need to be prepared for hot, humid days. You need to be ready for sudden thunderstorms and mosquitoes.You need to know pack to stay cool and casual. With these tips, you'll learn what to expect in any Florida season. You'll be set to have a relaxing and enjoyable trip to the Sunshine State.
The Florida Uniform
Dressing to match the landscape is part of the fun of being a tourist in Florida. Pick fabrics and prints that will match the turquoise blue of the Gulf waters, the vibrant green of palm fronds or the bright pink of hibiscus blooms.
Don't go overboard, but do let blacks and neutral clothing take a backseat in your vacation wardrobe.
Dress to look young, fun, relaxed and polished. A vacation to Florida is an excuse to pull out your collection of statement necklaces or watches and every pair of embellished, flat sandals you own.
Your daily uniform should be a mix of casual tank tops, loose T-shirts, shorts and flip flops.
For women, a short, flowing sundress worn over a swimsuit and accessorized with a flash of jewelry raises few eyebrows, even in grocery stores.
For men, a crisp, short-sleeved shirt worn with shorts and sandals works for everyday wear.
For everyone, packing a swimsuit (or several) is a necessity. Take the time to find a swimsuit you feel comfortable wearing before your trip. The investment will pay for itself in your enjoyment of your vacation. You'll feel free to lounge on the state's beaches, your resort's pool deck or your friend's lanai.
Preparing for the Weather
Drenching rainstorms are possible at any time of year in Florida. Average annual precipitation around the state ranges from 40 to 60 inches. Storm clouds can gather quickly and unexpectedly, and in one of those storms, even a sprint to your car across a small parking lot could leave you soaking wet.
Pack an umbrella for everyone in your group, preferably small, light umbrellas that can easily fit in a purse or a pocket. There's no point packing umbrellas that are so heavy and bulky that you will be tempted to leave them locked inside your hotel room each morning. Lightweight ponchos could also help make prolonged outdoor exploring more pleasant, especially in the the summer months.
For those traveling in the winter months --- also the high tourist season in Florida --- note that rain is less common in these months. But over the course of a 10-day trip, it's a possibility.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms are most frequent during the hurricane season, which runs from April to the end of November. If traveling in the state for 10 days during this season, rain is a certainty. These are also the warmest, steamiest months.
In any season in Florida, there is little temperature variation between day and night, rain or shine. This is true even on the coast.
This means that dressing in layers is only necessary if you plan on spending much time inside. Shops, movie theaters and restaurants often have strong air conditioning.
Outdoors, a true "cold snap" in south Florida would be several days of overnight temperature in the low 40s. Even for 10 days of travel in winter, supplementing your other clothes with a light coat or sweater and a pair or two of long pants would be enough.
Other Necessities
Prepare to indulge your hobbies. If your passions include fishing, golf, photography or bird watching, bring your gear.
You'll want to capture the sunsets, seashells and alligators you encounter during your time in Florida. Bring a camera, of course, but even novices should consider packing a sketchpad and art supplies. The scenery, light and bright colors of Florida have inspired many artists over the years.
When outdoors, unless you have unusually thick skin, bring bug spray. Formulas with high concentrations of DEET work the best. Equally important for protecting your skin is sunscreen.
Sunglasses are both an important fashion statement and the only way to avoid squinting in the bright Florida sun.
Bring closed-toed shoes if you plan on exploring the many unpaved walking paths in the state. Fire ants, which often nest along sandy trails, leave powerful and painful bites if disturbed.
Pack a big beach bag, beach blankets and a sun umbrella if you plan to park yourself on the sand for more than a few hours during your vacation.
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