Summer can be a great time to vacation in Orlando, but visiting during July and August has some key differences that will impact what you pack and what you wear.
We Bust the Myths About What You Really Need to Bring and Advice to Ignore
For starters, Orlando summers are hot, humid and often wet. Afternoon thunderstorms are a near-daily occurrence, and temperatures hover in the high 80s to mid-90s (°F) and sometimes top 100°F. Add in the Florida humidity and you can expect to experience heat like you’ve never felt before.
Still, summer vacation in Orlando can be fun and has a few benefits, as long as you’re aware of the weather and prepare for it.
So how do you stay cool, dry, and comfortable while still enjoying your vacation? Here’s your essential Orlando summer packing guide:
Summer Clothing for Orlando: Think Light, Breathable and Fast-Drying
1. Lightweight T-Shirts and Tops
When it comes to travel shirts and t-shirts, choose lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like performance blends or soft cotton. Avoid anything heavy or clingy. Thick cotton tees can get soggy quickly in the humidity or during a daily afternoon downpour.
Tip: Be sure to plan your wardrobe so that you can swap out a shirt if you need to change midday after rain or sweat.
2. Quick-Dry Shorts or Skorts
The top pick here is athletic or casual shorts made from fast-drying and lightweight materials.
These types of shorts are more practical than denim or heavy canvas shorts, both of which hold moisture and can feel heavy and uncomfortable. Skorts are also a great option for women who want a mix of comfort and coverage.
3. Comfortable Footwear
You'll be walking a lot, especially in theme parks. Go for breathable sneakers or well-ventilated walking sandals with good support. Also, shoes that dry quickly after a downpour are great for summer vacations in Orlando. There are also a growing number of waterproof running shoes that are perfect for summer in Florida.
Tip: Avoid flip-flops unless you’re heading to the pool or water park. If you want to wear sandals, make sure they’re made for long walking days and can handle getting wet.
4. Lightweight Rain Jacket or Poncho: Yes or No?
Afternoon thunderstorms roll in daily like clockwork in the summer.
If you’re a poncho person, a compact rain poncho or a lightweight, breathable rain jacket will save you from getting drenched—and cool down drafts from intense indoor A/Cs. However, these plastic wraps can also make you hot sticky and uncomfortable in the oppressive Orlando summer humidity.
Instead, we recommend a super small travel size umbrella as a better option, the kind that fold to fit in the palm of your hand. Remember, you’ll dry quickly if you don’t mind a little summer drenching. We find this preferable to wrapping ourselves in plastic and cooking in the Florida heat.
5. Sun Protection Gear
For the record, sun protection is always something to keep in mind. Consider the following when you pack for your Orlando summer vacation:
- Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Swimsuits (bring more than one)
- Cover-ups for pool days
Orlando Summer Heat Accessories: Do You Really Need These?
You’ll often see these items recommended, but it is really worth lugging around extra gear? We don't regurgitate the same old stale advice. Here are the straight yes or no answers.
1. Refillable Water Bottle (No)
Staying hydrated is key in the Florida heat. An insulated refillable water bottle can keep your drink cold all day. However, many theme parks have free refill stations and you can also get free ice water at any time from any quick service restaurant at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. So, no, we never bring a refillable water bottle, but you might want to lug one around.
2. Sunscreen (Yes)
Choose water- and sweat-resistant SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every couple of hours, especially if you're outside all day.
3. Small Daypack or Sling Bag (Yes)
While we recommend carrying around the least possible amount of stuff, if you do have a few things, then these small bags are perfect for carrying your rain gear, water, sunscreen and snacks. Look for a water-resistant option or bring a plastic bag to protect electronics when it rains.
4. Portable Fan or Cooling Towel (No)
Battery-powered fans or cooling towels are often recommended while waiting in lines or walking around midday. Sure, theme parks and other stores want you to buy this stuff, but this kind of extra stuff is really not necessary. A refreshing stop in the A/C with an ice water goes a lot further than a tiny little battery fan that you have to carry around. Remember, you’re not traveling to the middle of a remote desert, so don't pack like you are (avoid the tired old repeated hype of so many "expert" travel blogs). There are plenty of better ways to stay cool (including fun theme park mister cooling stations).
As far as cooling towels go, the truth is that any moistened towel or facecloth will do the exact same thing. Cooling towels marketed that way are nothing special (it's all marketing). Any towel will give you the cooling effect and this method will cool you down if you are overheated. But don't spend money on something marketed as a cooling towel. Grab a face cloth from the hotel room and you're good to go.
5. Ziplock Bags or Waterproof Pouches (Maybe)
These can be useful for keeping electronics or important documents safe when those summer storms hit and even for water rides where you risk getting splashed.
What Not to Pack
- Heavy clothing – You won’t wear it and it takes up bag space.
- Heels or fashion shoes – Choose comfort over style, especially in the summer.
- Thick denim jeans – Too hot and slow to dry. Not a summer essential in Orlando.
- Big Umbrellas – Often impractical in busy parks; we recommend a tiny palm size version.
Final Thoughts on Packing for an Orlando Summer Vacation
Packing smart for an Orlando summer vacation is all about staying cool, dry and comfortable.
Choose breathable fabrics, prepare for both heat and rain and don’t forget the sunscreen. With the right gear, you can focus less on discomfort and more on making magical memories.
Bonus Tip: If you’re planning theme park days, pack a change of socks and stash them in your bag. Wet socks + walking = guaranteed blisters. Plus all onsite hotels at Walt Disney World have laundry, so dry those wet clothes or shoes if you need to.
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