Welcome to Orlando in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Spring in Orlando is warm, with temperatures rising into the 80s by May, so you’ll want to pack lightweight clothes. Short sleeves, tank tops, and breathable fabrics are perfect for exploring the theme parks and outdoor attractions. It’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or shawl for the evenings, especially in March when it can be a bit cooler. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the parks, and don’t forget your sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the Florida sun.
Dress Code
Orlando’s style is casual and fun, especially with all the theme parks and outdoor attractions. Shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops are ideal for walking around the parks, while sundresses and casual outfits are great for dining out at restaurants or exploring the city’s shopping areas. For days at the beach or by the pool, swimsuits and cover-ups are essential. If you’re going out for dinner or drinks in the evening, you can dress things up a little, but it’s still casual. Comfortable shoes are a must for all the walking and standing you’ll do.
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MARCH
55 – 77F (13 – 25C)
Warm, sunny, with mild evenings
3.7 inches
APRIL
60 – 82F (16 – 28C)
Warm, sunny, occasional rain
2.5 inches
MAY
67 – 87F (19 – 31C)
Hot, sunny, with increasing humidity
3.7 inches
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for sunny days at Disney World or Universal Studios. I loved having these for long days outdoors!
2. Tank Tops: Great for staying cool while visiting Orlando’s theme parks or shopping areas.
3. Light Jacket: Ideal for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in March when it can still be a bit chilly.
4. Shawl: A stylish and light layer for evenings out or breezy afternoons by the water.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and versatile for walking around the parks or spending time outdoors. I liked having these for cooler evenings.
2. Skirt: Perfect for sunny days spent visiting attractions or enjoying a day trip to the beach.
3. Dress: Great for casual dinners or a day spent strolling through outdoor areas like Lake Eola Park.
4. Jumpsuit: A versatile piece for day-to-night outfits, ideal for a day in the parks or an evening out.
5. Leggings: Great for flights, or casual days spent relaxing or exploring the city’s shops and cafes.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Absolutely essential for long days at the theme parks or walking around downtown Orlando. I found these really practical for the parks!
2. Flip Flops: Perfect for the beach, poolside lounging, or easy strolls around your hotel.
3. Sunglasses: A must for Orlando’s bright, sunny days, whether you’re in the parks or enjoying a boat tour.
4. Hat: Great for keeping cool and protecting yourself from the sun while spending time outdoors.
5. Swimsuit: Whether you’re at your hotel pool or spending a day at one of Orlando’s nearby beaches, swimwear is a must.
6. Pajamas: Light and comfortable, perfect for relaxing after long days exploring the parks.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a spring trip to Orlando, with space for casual outfits, swimwear, and theme park essentials.
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying sunscreen, water, snacks, and extra layers while spending long days in the parks.
3. Purse: Great for casual evenings out or quick trips to restaurants and shops in Orlando.
4. Beach Bag: Useful for carrying towels, sunscreen, and snacks for a day at the pool or nearby beach.
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
- Lightweight clothing: Orlando’s warm weather makes light and breathable fabrics essential for staying cool while exploring the parks.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll spend a lot of time walking around theme parks, so bring shoes that offer support for long days.
- Sun protection: Florida’s sun can be intense, even in the spring, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay protected.
- Rain gear: Orlando’s spring can have sudden rain showers, especially in May, so pack a light rain jacket or umbrella.
Orlando Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT ORLANDO?
April is the best month to visit Orlando during the spring, with warm weather, fewer rain showers, and plenty of outdoor events.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN ORLANDO?
March-May: Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – A spring event showcasing flowers, gardens, and outdoor kitchens at Epcot.
April: Florida Film Festival – Celebrating independent films with screenings and events around Orlando.
March: Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival – A prestigious art festival featuring work from artists across the country.
April: Central Florida Earth Day – An eco-friendly event featuring vegan food, green living products, and performances.
March: Arnold Palmer Invitational – A major PGA Tour golf event held at the Bay Hill Club and Lodge.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN ORLANDO IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Orlando is the perfect time to visit the area’s theme parks and outdoor attractions. Spend a day at Walt Disney World or Universal Studios, enjoying the rides and shows, then relax with dinner at Disney Springs or CityWalk. You can also explore Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando, where you can rent swan boats and stroll through the gardens. Visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens to see beautiful spring blooms or take a day trip to the nearby beaches like Cocoa Beach for a relaxing day in the sun.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT ORLANDO IN THE SPRING?
A 5-7 day trip is ideal to experience Orlando’s theme parks, gardens, and nearby attractions during the spring.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Spend the day at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, then enjoy dinner at Disney Springs. Day 2: Explore Universal Studios, ride the roller coasters, and finish with a sunset boat tour on Lake Eola.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Visit Epcot and enjoy the Flower & Garden Festival, then relax with a cocktail at CityWalk. Day 4: Spend a day exploring Gatorland and learning about Florida’s wildlife, then have dinner at a local restaurant in Winter Park. Day 5: Take a day trip to Cocoa Beach for some sun and sand, then return to Orlando for dinner by the lake at Lake Eola Park.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Visit the Harry P. Leu Gardens to enjoy spring blooms, then explore the boutiques and cafes in Winter Park. Day 7: Spend a relaxing day at your hotel pool or visit SeaWorld for more theme park fun.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center and learn about space exploration. Day 9: Visit the Orlando Science Center for hands-on exhibits and then explore the nearby Loch Haven Park. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots or spend a leisurely day at your hotel before heading home.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Explore the historic town of Mount Dora, known for its antique shops and lakeside views. Day 12: Spend the day hiking in Wekiwa Springs State Park, followed by a picnic. Day 13: Visit the Crayola Experience for colorful fun, then relax in Winter Garden. Day 14: Spend your last day relaxing at the hotel or revisiting your favorite theme park attractions.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN ORLANDO?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Tank Top
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Shawl
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Shawl
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Shawl
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Dress
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Shawl
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Shawl
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flip Flops
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR ORLANDO IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Coats: Orlando’s spring weather is warm, and heavy outerwear is not necessary.
Thick Sweaters: Stick to lighter layers, as the temperatures are mild and warm.
Formal Clothes: Orlando’s dress code is casual, even for nice dinners.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO ORLANDO IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $200 – $500, depending on your departure location and when you book.
Accommodation: $150 – $350 per night, depending on location and hotel class.
Transportation: $30 – $80 for local travel, including Ubers or car rentals.
Meals: $50 – $150 per day, depending on dining choices from theme park restaurants to local cafes.
Activities: $50 – $200 for theme park entry, tours, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN ORLANDO? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is customary in Orlando. A 20% tip is typical in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on the location.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ORLANDO BEFORE I VISIT?
- Theme park crowds: Arrive early at theme parks to beat the crowds, especially during spring break.
- Weather: Be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially in May, so always have an umbrella or rain jacket.
- Parking: Theme parks have large parking areas, so allow extra time to get from the parking lot to the park entrance.
- Sun protection: Orlando’s sun can be intense, so wear sunscreen, even on partly cloudy days.