What Should You Pack for Orlando?
Orlando can get very warm, especially in the summer, so lightweight clothing is your best friend! Bring short sleeve shirts and tank tops for days spent in the theme parks. Comfortable shoes are a must for all the walking you’ll be doing. A light jacket will come in handy during cooler evenings, especially if you’re visiting in winter or early spring. Don’t forget your swimsuit for pool days at your hotel or water parks! And, of course, pack sun protection like hats and sunglasses.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld; enjoying International Drive; exploring the Orlando Science Center and Lake Eola Park.
Dress Code
Orlando is casual and family-friendly, especially around the theme parks. You’ll want to dress comfortably but also practically. Shorts, tank tops, and light dresses are great for daytime adventures, especially in the parks. For nights out at Downtown Disney or Universal CityWalk, consider something a little more stylish like a jumpsuit or a flowy skirt. Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes, and remember that theme parks often have water rides, so quick-dry clothing can be helpful.
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Spring
65 – 85°F
(18 – 29°C
)
Summer
75 – 95°F
(24 – 35°C
)
Fall
65 – 85°F
(18 – 29°C
)
Winter
50 – 75°F
(10 – 24°C
)
Spring: Warm, with occasional rain
Summer: Hot, humid, with frequent thunderstorms
Fall: Warm and rainy, cooling down at night
Winter: Mild and sunny
Spring
3.5 inches of rain
Summer
7.7 inches of rain
Fall
4.7 inches of rain
Winter
2.2 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for staying cool during long days at the theme parks.
2. Tank Tops: Great for hot summer days or water park visits.
3. Casual Jacket: Ideal for cooler evenings or air-conditioned indoor attractions.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and versatile, perfect for cooler days or casual evenings.
2. Shorts: A must for the hot days at theme parks—I really liked these for Universal Studios!
3. Skirt: A nice option for a stylish evening out at Downtown Disney.
4. Dresses: Lightweight dresses are great for staying cool and looking cute in the Florida heat.
5. Jumpsuit: A stylish and comfortable option for dining or nighttime events.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Sandals: Perfect for keeping your feet cool during outdoor activities or resort stays.
2. Sneakers: Great for walking all day at the theme parks.
3. Sunglasses: You’ll definitely need these for the sunny Orlando days.
4. Hat: A sunhat is essential for protecting yourself from the heat.
5. Swimsuit: Perfect for pool days or water parks.
6. Beach Coverup: Great for transitioning between the pool and a casual lunch.
7. Sarong: Useful for lounging by the pool or at a water park.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for keeping your essentials close on your flight to Orlando.
2. Daypack: A must for theme parks—perfect for carrying sunscreen, snacks, and water.
3. Tote Bag: Great for pool days or shopping in Downtown Disney.
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: Orlando is warm year-round, so pack breathable materials like cotton and linen.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially at the theme parks, so good shoes are essential.
- Swimsuit: If you’re heading to the water parks or staying at a resort, you’ll definitely want a swimsuit.
- Sun protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the Florida sun.
Orlando Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ORLANDO?
March and April are ideal for visiting Orlando. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller than during the summer. Spring is also great because it avoids hurricane season, and the theme parks are less crowded.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN ORLANDO?
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival (March-May): A family-friendly event featuring stunning gardens, topiaries, and food stands.
Halloween Horror Nights (September-October): A large event at Universal Studios, ideal for thrill-seekers and group fun.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (November-December): A magical holiday experience at Disney World, perfect for families and couples alike.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN ORLANDO?
Orlando is packed with attractions beyond the theme parks. One of my favorite places is International Drive for its dining and entertainment. Of course, you can’t miss Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando offers a peaceful escape with swan boat rides and a picturesque walking trail. For a bit of culture, head to the Orlando Museum of Art or the Kennedy Space Center, just a short drive away.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT ORLANDO?
A 5-7 day trip is ideal for visiting the major theme parks and enjoying other Orlando attractions.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Magic Kingdom and enjoy the classic Disney attractions. Spend day two exploring Universal Studios and experiencing the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit Epcot for world cultures and unique dining experiences. On day four, relax at your hotel’s pool or take a day trip to Kennedy Space Center. Spend day five exploring the Orlando Science Center and enjoying a meal on International Drive.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom to explore nature-themed attractions. On day seven, take a boat ride at Lake Eola Park and enjoy dinner in Winter Park.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit SeaWorld and experience the marine life shows. Spend day nine visiting Disney Springs for shopping and dining. On day ten, take a relaxing day trip to Cocoa Beach.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, take a drive to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S. Spend day twelve exploring the Florida Everglades. On day thirteen, visit Gatorland, and on day fourteen, spend a relaxing day at a resort spa.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN ORLANDO?
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 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 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 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 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 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR ORLANDO?
Heavy coats: Orlando’s warm climate means you won’t need heavy outerwear.
High heels: Not practical for long days at the theme parks—opt for comfortable walking shoes or sandals.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO ORLANDO ?
Airfare: $150-$400 depending on your starting location and season.
Accommodation: $100-$400 per night depending on proximity to the theme parks and time of year.
Transportation: $40-$100 per day if renting a car or using rideshare services.
Meals: $30-$100 per day depending on whether you’re dining at park restaurants or exploring local spots.
Activities: $100-$150 per day for theme parks and attractions, with discounts for multi-day passes.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN ORLANDO? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is common in Orlando. Tip 20% at restaurants and $1-3 per drink. Hotel services like housekeeping and bellhops typically receive $1-2 per bag and $2-5 per night.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ORLANDO BEFORE I VISIT?
- Hydrate: The heat and humidity can be draining, so carry water with you.
- Plan your park days: Go early to beat the crowds and the afternoon heat.
- Rain gear: Orlando experiences sudden rain showers, especially in summer, so pack a small umbrella or poncho.
- Use FastPass: At Disney parks, make use of FastPass to skip long lines.