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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Florida, USA

Summer Essentials June-September

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics work best. Pack plenty of shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and sundresses. The heat and humidity are intense.

Rain Protection

Winter Wear December-February

Mornings and evenings can be cool or chilly. Pack Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, or fleeces for warmth.

Outerwear

  • A medium-weight jacket or a light insulated jacket may be needed for very cool days or evenings.
  • Consider a Windbreaker if near the ocean or for launch viewing.
  • It feels cooler with the breeze.

Footwear

Everyday Comfort

Wear Comfortable walking sandals, Sneakers, or slip-on shoes for general sightseeing and walking around towns.

Good for long walks and attractions.

Beach & Water

Flip-flops or simple sandals are perfect for heading to the beach or lounging by the pool.

Easy to take on and off.

Wet Weather

If traveling during the summer rainy season, Waterproof shoes or sandals prove useful for navigating unexpected downpours. Quick-drying shoes are good too.

Stay dry during showers.

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Carry your original passport. If you needed a visa, it is affixed in your passport. If traveling under the Visa Waiver Program, have a printed or digital confirmation of your approved ESTA. Store physical copies in a secure, separate place from the originals.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable)
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations
  • Emergency Contact Information
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable)
  • Copy of Credit Cards (front and back, separate from wallet)

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

U.S. outlets are Type A and B. Voltage is 120V at 60Hz. Bring a Universal travel adapter if devices use different plug types. Check compatibility with 120V. Most modern electronics are dual-voltage and only need a Plug adapter. Single-voltage appliances may need a Voltage converter.

Tech Items

  • Power Adapter and Voltage Considerations
  • Mobile Phone Compatibility and SIM Card Options (Consider Airalo e-SIM)
  • Camera Equipment Recommendations (Check B&H Photo for gear)

Apps & Power Banks

Portable chargers and power banks for keeping devices charged all day, specifically at attractions, on tours, or waiting for launches. A High-capacity power bank is highly recommended, as battery life drains quickly with constant navigation and photo-taking.

Recommended Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps or Waze.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft.
  • Weather: A local weather app.

Data & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) to back up photos and important documents.

External Drive

Bring a Portable external hard drive for local backups.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure Wi-Fi use.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Essentials

Pack a practical health and wellness kit for common travel ailments.

Kit Contents

Prescription & OTC Needs

Carry all prescription medications in their original containers with pharmacy labels. A doctor's note for controlled substances or large quantities. Pack them in your carry-on bag.

Essential Medications

  • Prescription Medications (with documentation).
  • Over-the-Counter Medications for Common Issues (Anti-diarrhea, Motion sickness).
  • Hydrocortisone cream for bug bites or minor skin irritations.

Sun & Insect Protection

Insect Repellent

Sun Protection

Activity-Specific Equipment

Launch Viewing

Binoculars for better views. A portable folding chair can be useful for long waits at public viewing spots.

  • Binoculars
  • Portable Chair
  • Camera with Zoom
  • Tripod

Water Activities

Swimwear and towels. Polarized sunglasses for glare. Snorkel gear (if desired). Consider a Dry bag for electronics during kayaking.

  • Swimsuits
  • Beach Towels
  • Water Shoes
  • Dry Bag

Hiking & Outdoors

Moisture-wicking clothing for sweat. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals for trails in natural areas.

  • Moisture-wicking Clothes
  • Sturdy Walking Shoes
  • Insect Repellent
  • Hydration Pack

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Rent These Items

  • Beach chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, paddleboards, and surfboards are easily rentable.
  • Saves luggage space.
  • Available at beach access points or local tour operators and surf shops.
  • Convenient for a casual beach day.

Bring These Items

  • Smaller personal items like sunscreen, bug spray, binoculars, and portable chargers.
  • Best brought from home due to cost-effectiveness and personal preference.
  • Your own comfortable walking shoes.
  • Specialty camera equipment for optimal photo capture.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

For long flights or car rides, a Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs significantly improve your comfort.

Security Items

Reusable & Convenience Items

A Reusable water bottle for staying hydrated and reducing plastic waste. A Reusable shopping bag is useful for groceries, souvenirs, or beach items. Many stores charge for plastic bags.

Packing for Convenience

  • Reusable Water Bottle.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag.
  • A Reusable travel utensil set for self-catering or picnics.
  • Travel-sized personal hygiene products.

Sustainable Travel Items

Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste by refilling.

Shopping Bag

Use for groceries and souvenirs.

Utensil Set

For picnics and self-catering.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect marine environments.

Local Availability

Common Items

  • Most items are readily available on the Space Coast.
  • Prices for essentials are comparable to other parts of the U.S.
  • Pharmacies and grocery stores are plentiful.

Obscure Needs

  • If you have a specific brand of medication, toiletry, or food item that is obscure, bring it.
  • Otherwise, purchase most forgotten items locally.
  • Always have sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent readily available.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack lighter layers in summer and versatile layers for cooler months. Roll clothes to maximize space. Carry important documents and medications in your carry-on.

Consider travel-sized products to save space and weight, or plan to purchase locally upon arrival.