Packing for a Florida vacation sounds straightforward. Swimsuits, flip-flops, sunscreen. Done.
Except Southwest Florida has a few quirks that catch first-time (and even repeat) visitors off guard – sudden rainstorms, intense sun, shell-heavy beaches, aggressive air-conditioning, and bugs that don’t mess around.
If you want a smooth stay along the Gulf Coast (especially in places like Sarasota, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island), here’s what actually belongs in your suitcase.
What You’ll Be Glad You Packed
- Sun protection that goes beyond sunscreen: Florida sun is stronger than most visitors expect, even on cloudy days. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and a lightweight long-sleeve cover-up for beach walks or boat days. Sunburn can happen fast here – and once it does, it limits everything else you planned.
- Rain-ready essentials for sudden showers: Gulf Coast rain doesn’t usually last all day, but it does arrive without warning. A compact rain jacket or travel umbrella makes it easy to keep plans flexible. Flip-flops dry quickly, but having one pair of closed shoes that can handle wet sidewalks is a smart move.
- Water shoes and beach-smart gear: Many Southwest Florida beaches have shells, rocky patches, or coarse sand – beautiful, but tough on bare feet. Water shoes make wading, shell hunting, and shoreline walks far more comfortable. Add a quick-dry towel, a waterproof tote, and a waterproof phone case if you plan to be near the water often.
- Bug protection (especially for mornings and evenings): Mosquitoes and no-see-ums are part of coastal Florida life, particularly near dusk, parks, and mangroves. Pack insect repellent, and consider a small after-bite treatment just in case. If you’re sensitive to bites, lightweight long sleeves and pants are worth the space.
- Hydration and indoor-outdoor comfort items: Florida heat plus humidity dehydrates faster than you think. Reusable water bottles are a must – most vacation rentals make refilling easy. Also bring light layers: restaurants, shops, and rentals often keep air-conditioning cranked, which can feel surprisingly cold after a day in the sun.
Wrapping Up
Florida packing is less about how much you bring and more about what actually works here. Guests who arrive prepared tend to spend less time shopping for forgotten basics and more time enjoying the beach, the pool, and everything in between.
A little planning goes a long way, and it’s one of the easiest ways to make your Gulf Coast stay more comfortable from day one.
Staying with Jennette Properties? Our team is always happy to share local tips based on your rental’s location, nearby beaches, and seasonal conditions – just ask before you arrive.
