While Florida is known as the sunshine state, it’s not always sunny – especially if you’re visiting during the winter months.
We think the winter season (January through March) is the best time to visit Florida since the hurricane season and tropical storms have passed and the heat, humidity and crowds that come with spring and summer haven’t yet arrived.
That being said, what you pack and subsequently wear for your winter vacation to Florida is going to be slightly different when compared to the other seasons of the year.
Given our experience of visiting Florida multiple times during the winter, we want to share what we pack for our trips.
Things To Consider When Deciding What To Wear In Florida In Winter
When planning what you’re going to wear in Florida during the winter months then you’ll want to consider a couple of things;
Firstly, when are you visiting?
January is typically the coldest month of the year in Florida and as such what you wear when visiting the state during this time is going to differ significantly when compared to the later winter month of late February and March for example.
![What To Wear In Florida In Winter (1) What To Wear In Florida In Winter (1)](https://i0.wp.com/insideoursuitcase.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Side-View-Of-Playa-de-los-Pocillos-Beach-In-Puerto-Del-Carmen-Lanzarote-1024x768.jpg)
Then you’ll want to consider where in Florida you’re visiting.
If you’re heading to Southern Florida (the Florida Keys, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Key West etc.) then you’re closer to the equator and therefore temperatures are generally higher when compared to north and central Florida.
Finally, you’ll want to consider what you’re looking to do during your Florida vacation.
If you’re planning on heading to the theme parks in Orlando (Walt Disney World, Universal Studios etc.) then you’ll want to consider packing for comfort first and foremost.
Meanwhile, if you’re heading to the water parks or Miami Beach for example then you’re going to want to wear a bathing suit and flip flops (yes, this is still possible even in winter!).
However, Florida has one of the mildest winters of any state in the United States so keep in mind that to most Florida residents the winter months are incredibly cold therefore the ‘Florida style’ during this time is very much winter clothes.
Shorts & Skirts
Depending on where you’re travelling from the 60°F average daytime temperatures experienced in Florida during the winter months may still feel warm.
As such you may still want to consider packing a skirt or a pair of shorts. We like a pair that’s got good pockets (ideally with zips) so we can store a bank card and our mobile phone in them safely and access them quickly as and when required.
![What To Wear In Florida In Winter (2) What To Wear In Florida In Winter (2)](https://i0.wp.com/insideoursuitcase.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Helen-and-Cora-meeting-Homer-Simpson-at-Universal-Studios-Orlando-768x1024.jpg)
While denim shorts are a great option as they are slightly thicker providing additional warmth during the early evenings, they aren’t ideal for the beach (getting sand off denim is a nightmare!) or if you get caught in the rain (since they take hours to dry).
Instead, we look for a pair made of cotton, ideally with some stretch in the waist (for when we’ve had too many margaritas).
Trousers & Leggings
When visiting Florida in the summer months you may only pack a single pair of pants. However, in winter jeans, trousers and leggings are always a good choice and will likely make up the majority of your outfits.
Depending on what activities you plan to experience during your Florida vacation (and their subsequent dress code) you may want to bring a range of styles including;
- Smart or dark denim – ideal for meals in restaurants or more formal activities
- Casual leggings – perfect for sports and theme parks
- Lightweight pants – a good idea for the beach
- Relaxed denim – ideal for keeping it casual on cooler days
- Joggers – a great choice for keeping warm and relaxed in a rare cold spell
Dresses, Jumpsuits & Playsuits
Depending on what you plan to experience during your trip to Florida you may also want to pack dresses, jumpsuits or playsuits.
These are ideal for casual daytime activities or formal evening attire depending on the style and in most cases are lightweight and pack small allowing you to bring a range of options on vacation with you.
T-Shirts
Given the 60°F average daytime temperatures in Florida during the winter months, it’s still reasonable to expect you’ll be able to wear a t-shirt while out and about on vacation (however, we’d personally save the tank tops for summer).
![What To Wear In Florida In Winter (3) What To Wear In Florida In Winter (3)](https://i0.wp.com/insideoursuitcase.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Cora-Ollie-On-City-Cruises-Boat-Tour-London-Thames-1024x768.jpg)
Obviously, t-shirts are one of the most versatile pieces of clothing around and come in a range of styles suitable for everything from relaxing by the pool to chilling at the beach to exploring the city.
The average temperature in the evening or early morning in Florida is around 10°F lower when compared to the daytime. As such if you’re heading outside during these times you may want to consider wearing long sleeve shirts instead of short sleeves for additional warmth.
Jackets & Cardigans
Most evenings (and during selected daytimes) you’re going to want to layer your base outfit (t-shirt and shorts, jeans, playsuit dresses etc.) with an additional layer for warmth.
This could come in the form of a jacket, cardigan or hoodie depending on both your style and what you’re doing.
For more casual restaurants and exploring during the daytime, a hoodie is more than acceptable. However, on an evening in selected locations, you may want to opt for something slightly more formal such as a jacket or a cardigan.
Personally, I opt for a light jacket that can be stored easily inside a backpack while out exploring.
Meanwhile, Helen gets cold easily and therefore goes for a fleece jacket option during the day and a leather jacket to combine with either a dress or jeans during the evening.
Bathing Suit
Swimming in both the ocean and in a pool in Florida is possible (and comfortable) year-round.
![What To Wear In Florida In Winter (4) What To Wear In Florida In Winter (4)](https://i0.wp.com/insideoursuitcase.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Oliver-sleeping-on-the-sunbed-at-Universal-Studios-Volcano-Bay-in-Orlando-768x1024.jpg)
As such if you’re going to be by the beach or by a pool during your winter vacation then you’ll still want to pack a bathing suit.
Footwear
Depending on what you’re doing on your Florida vacation will depend on what footwear you bring with you.
It is incredibly rare for snow to fall in the state ofFlorida (especially in central and south Florida) as such you don’t need to bring snow boots or anything to accommodate extreme temperatures.
Instead, you’re going to want to focus on form, function and style.
This could come in a combination of sandals, tennis shoes, walking boots or trainers depending on what you’re planning to do / experience during your winter Florida vacation.
Accessories
While the sun’s UV rays are generally significantly less strong during the winter months in Florida you’ll still want to pack a range of accessories to protect your skin and keep you comfortable while out and about.
These accessories include;
- Sunhat / Baseball cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunblock
- Backpack
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert and enthusiast, I have access to a wide range of information on various topics, including travel and fashion. I can provide insights and recommendations based on my knowledge and the information available to me. In this case, I will provide information related to what to wear in Florida during the winter months.
What to Wear in Florida in Winter
When planning what to wear in Florida during the winter months, there are a few factors to consider. The winter season in Florida typically lasts from January through March. During this time, the hurricane season and tropical storms have passed, and the heat, humidity, and crowds of spring and summer haven't yet arrived .
Here are some things to consider when deciding what to wear in Florida in winter:
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Visiting Time: The weather in Florida can vary depending on the time of winter you visit. January is typically the coldest month, while late February and March tend to be milder .
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Location: The temperature in Florida can also vary depending on the region. Southern Florida, including the Florida Keys, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, and Key West, is closer to the equator and generally has higher temperatures compared to north and central Florida.
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Activities: Consider the activities you plan to do during your Florida vacation. If you're visiting theme parks in Orlando, such as Walt Disney World or Universal Studios, prioritize comfort in your clothing choices. If you're heading to water parks or Miami Beach, pack a bathing suit and flip flops.
Based on these factors, here are some clothing items to consider packing for your winter vacation in Florida:
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T-Shirts: With average daytime temperatures around 60°F, you can still wear t-shirts while out and about. Long-sleeve shirts may be more suitable for cooler evenings or early mornings.
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Shorts & Skirts: Depending on where you're traveling from, the average daytime temperatures in Florida may still feel warm. Consider packing a pair of shorts or a skirt for comfortable and casual wear. Look for cotton shorts or skirts with stretch in the waist for added comfort.
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Trousers & Leggings: Jeans, trousers, and leggings are good choices for winter in Florida. They provide warmth and can be versatile for different activities and dress codes. Consider bringing a range of styles, including smart or dark denim, casual leggings, lightweight pants, relaxed denim, and joggers.
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Dresses, Jumpsuits & Playsuits: Depending on your plans, you may want to pack dresses, jumpsuits, or playsuits. These can be lightweight and versatile options for both casual daytime activities and formal evening attire.
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Jackets & Cardigans: Layering is important for cooler evenings and selected daytimes. Bring a jacket, cardigan, or hoodie to layer over your base outfit. Choose the appropriate style based on the occasion, whether it's casual or more formal .
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Bathing Suit: Swimming in the ocean or pool is possible and comfortable year-round in Florida. Don't forget to pack a bathing suit if you plan to be near the beach or a pool during your winter vacation.
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Footwear: Snow is incredibly rare in Florida, so you don't need to pack snow boots or extreme-temperature footwear. Instead, focus on form, function, and style. Consider bringing a combination of sandals, tennis shoes, walking boots, or trainers based on your planned activities.
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Accessories: While the sun's UV rays are generally less strong during the winter months in Florida, it's still important to protect your skin. Pack accessories such as a sunhat or baseball cap, sunglasses, sunblock, and a backpack for your daily essentials.
Remember, these recommendations are based on general guidelines and may vary depending on personal preferences and specific circ*mstances. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and adjust your packing accordingly.
I hope this information helps you plan your winter vacation wardrobe in Florida! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.