What Should You Pack for Miami?
Miami is known for its warm, tropical weather, so pack light! You’ll want breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to stay cool. Days can get really hot, so tank tops, short sleeve shirts, and shorts are perfect for the daytime. Don’t forget a swimsuit for beach days! A light jacket is good for cooler evenings in winter or in case you encounter air-conditioned restaurants or shops. Definitely pack for the sun—hats and sunglasses are a must!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting South Beach, exploring the Art Deco District, enjoying Wynwood Walls, boat tours around Biscayne Bay, and spending time at Little Havana.
Dress Code
Miami’s style is all about looking chic yet comfortable. You’ll see a mix of trendy beachwear and casual summer styles during the day, like flowy dresses or shorts with a cute top. At night, Miami turns up the glamour, so bring a dress or jumpsuit for dinner or nightlife—especially if you plan to visit South Beach or hit the clubs. Keep it relaxed during the day, but don’t be afraid to dress up a bit for the evenings out!
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Spring
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Summer
80 – 90°F
(27 – 32°C
)
Fall
75 – 85°F
(24 – 29°C
)
Winter
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Spring: Warm with occasional rain showers
Summer: Hot and humid with thunderstorms
Fall: Warm and rainy with cooler evenings
Winter: Mild and sunny
Spring
3.6 inches of rain
Summer
8.2 inches of rain
Fall
6.5 inches of rain
Winter
2.0 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for keeping cool during Miami’s hot days—I loved wearing these at Wynwood Walls!
2. Tank Tops: Perfect for the beach or a boat tour around Biscayne Bay.
3. Casual Jacket: Bring one for cooler nights, especially if you’re dining outside by the water.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and stylish for walking and city exploring—I loved how practical these were for different activities!
2. Shorts: Ideal for hot weather, especially for beach and outdoor activities.
3. Dresses: Light and flowy dresses are perfect for Miami’s hot weather and fit right in with the city’s beachy vibe.
4. Jumpsuit: A great option for a night out or dining at a fancy restaurant.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Sandals: Comfortable sandals are great for both beach days and walking around the city—I loved mine at the Art Deco District!
2. Flats: A stylish option for evenings out, especially if you’re headed to a nice restaurant.
3. Sunglasses: You’ll need these for the sunny Miami days, especially at the beach or by the pool.
4. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is perfect for sun protection, especially when exploring outdoor markets or strolling the beach.
5. Swimsuit: A must for enjoying Miami’s beaches.
6. Sarong: Great for covering up after a swim at South Beach.
7. Beach Coverup: Ideal for transitioning from the beach to a casual lunch or shopping.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend trip to Miami, keeping essentials handy.
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying sunscreen, water, and a camera while exploring the city.
3. Tote Bag: Useful for the beach or shopping in the Design District.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Light fabrics: Miami’s tropical heat and humidity make lightweight clothes essential—opt for cotton and linen.
- Comfortable sandals: Whether you’re strolling through Wynwood or exploring Little Havana, comfortable shoes are a must.
- Sun protection: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay protected from the sun.
Miami Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MIAMI?
March and April are ideal months to visit Miami. The weather is warm, but not too hot, and there are fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. Springtime is also great because it’s less rainy, and there are many outdoor events to enjoy!
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN MIAMI?
Miami Music Week (March): A huge event for electronic music lovers, perfect for friends or solo travelers.
Miami Beach Pride (April): A family-friendly celebration with parades and parties in support of the LGBTQ+ community.
Art Basel (December): An international art fair attracting artists and collectors from all over the world, great for couples and solo travelers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN MIAMI?
Miami offers both beach and city adventures. One of my favorite places is South Beach for lounging by the water and people-watching. For art lovers, Wynwood Walls is a must-visit with its vibrant street art, while Little Havana offers a rich cultural experience. You can’t miss the Art Deco District for its stunning architecture, and Biscayne Bay is perfect for boat tours.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT MIAMI?
You’ll need about 3-5 days to explore Miami’s beaches, neighborhoods, and cultural spots. A long weekend can cover the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, relax at South Beach, explore the Art Deco District, and have dinner in Little Havana. Spend day two walking through Wynwood Walls and taking a boat tour around Biscayne Bay.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, followed by lunch in Coconut Grove. Spend day four exploring the Miami Design District, and on day five, take a trip to the nearby Everglades for an airboat tour.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, take a day trip to Key Biscayne for beaches and nature. Spend day seven relaxing on the quieter beaches of North Miami Beach.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore the Perez Art Museum Miami, followed by a visit to Brickell City Centre for shopping. Spend day nine visiting Jungle Island, and on day ten, take a trip to the Coral Gables for a relaxing day.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, explore the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables. On day twelve, spend time at Miami Seaquarium. Days thirteen and fourteen can be spent relaxing on the beach or visiting museums.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN MIAMI?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Tank Top
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Sandals
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Sandals
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Sandals
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Shorts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Sandals
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Tank Tops
- 4 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Shorts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Sandals
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR MIAMI?
Heavy coats: Miami is warm year-round, so you won’t need heavy outerwear.
High heels: The city’s beachy vibe and lots of walking make heels impractical. Opt for sandals or flats.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO MIAMI ?
Airfare: $200-$600 depending on where you’re flying from and the season.
Accommodation: $100-$400 per night, with higher prices near South Beach.
Transportation: $40-$100 per day for rideshares or rental cars—parking fees can be expensive in tourist areas.
Meals: $40-$100 per day depending on whether you’re dining at local cafes or high-end restaurants.
Activities: $30-$100 per day for attractions like boat tours, museums, and beach rentals.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN MIAMI? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is expected in Miami. It’s common to tip 20% at restaurants and $1-3 per drink. Valet, housekeeping, and bellhop services usually receive $1-3 per service.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MIAMI BEFORE I VISIT?
- Sun protection: Miami’s sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Avoid peak hours: Beaches and popular attractions can get crowded, so visit early in the morning or later in the day.
- Public transportation: Miami has decent public transit, and rideshare apps are a great option for getting around.
- Hydrate: With the humidity, it’s important to stay hydrated—bring a water bottle when out exploring.