Packing for any vacation is a chore, but packing for a winter vacation in Orlando is especially tricky. Weather can go from sunny and 70 degrees during the day to windy and 40 degrees at night. I'm passing along a few packing tips if you're headed to the parks during the winter months...
Clothing
“Layering” is the keyword. You'll need a jacket while the morning temps hover around 45 degrees. By lunchtime, you'll be fine in a long sleeve t-shirt. Then when the sun goes down, you'll need that jacket again and maybe even a hat and gloves. (I usually dress the kids in a short sleeve t-shirt, then a long sleeve t-shirt, then a jacket.)
Sunscreen/Skincare
The Florida sun and its UV rays are just as strong during the winter as the summer months. So even if it's cool outside, sunscreen is a must. And don't forget the lip balm and lotion for dry skin and chapped lips!
Blankets/Towels
Throw a small blanket in your backpack to cuddle up with while you're waiting for parades and fireworks shows. I also bring a towel or two to wipe down wet benches and to sit on. (Leap and I usually rent a locker to stash the blanket and jackets during the day, but we carry the towels with us.
Cold Medicine/Vitamins
The wide range in temperatures from daytime to night can sneak up on even the sturdiest of immune systems. Pack your multi-vitamins and some over-the-counter cold medicine. On that note, I always bring hand sanitizer and wet wipes with me, too.
Raingear
Winter isn't known as a “rainy” season in Florida, but Florida weather can be unpredictable. Even if it’s not raining you can use the poncho to cover up with so you don't have to skip awesome wet rides like Splash Mountain® Attraction and Kali River Rapids® Attraction. No one wants to walk around in damp clothes when the weather is chilly!
Swimsuits
Yes, you read that correctly. There are days when it's plenty warm enough for a dip in a heated pond...I mean, pool!
Read more about planning your visit in our Orlando Planning Guide.
