If you’re not sure where to take your next family trip, book a stay in Florida! Florida features numerous attractions and restaurants. That being said, there are some things you’ll need to prepare for traveling to the Sunshine State. Avoid the following mistakes many tourists make when they travel to Florida for a family vacation.
Overpacking and Failing To Plan for Transportation
It’s easy to overestimate what you’ll need. From swimsuits to sunscreen to toys for your kids, too much luggage can make traveling chaotic. Rather than loading the car with excessive baggage or paying extra fees on airlines, prepare for the trip by examining the itinerary and leaving a little extra room for souvenirs.
Pack the Essentials for Everyday Activities
Think about the activities you’ve planned. If you’re heading to the beach, pack one or two swimsuits and a lightweight cover-up. Also, bring some sunscreen, pool toys for the kids, and a fabric cooler to stash a few drinks or snacks for the whole family.
Heading out to enjoy Orlando’s theme parks? Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes! Always pack light, but smart, to save yourself space and potential baggage fees.
Have a Transportation Plan
If you’re flying into Florida, determine how you and your family will navigate the streets before your arrival. If renting a car, know the rental policies and bring a valid driver’s license. Public transportation may not be as reliable, especially in suburban or rural parts of Florida, so plan accordingly.
Underestimating Florida’s Weather
Being the Sunshine State, many people assume Florida will have clear skies all year round. While Florida has plenty of warm weather, it’s also well-known for sudden thunderstorms and unpredictable rain, especially during the summer months.
Travelers who arrive unprepared for these conditions may find themselves scrambling for shelter. Pack rain gear, from raincoats to umbrellas, for unexpected weather.
Prepare for Rain and Humidity
Thunderstorms are common, and the humidity can make even short outdoor adventures feel draining. Carry lightweight rain gear, and if you plan on visiting Disney World, prepare for rain by bringing ponchos for Disney. They’ll keep you dry without the bulk of an umbrella, so you can spend your day enjoying the rides instead of hiding under shelter.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
The sunshine in Florida, especially during peak hours, can be intense. Be sure to use sunscreen to protect you from harsh UV rays and pack lightweight, UV-resistant clothing. If you’re heading down to one of the beaches or water parks, reapply sunscreen often to avoid returning home with an uncomfortable sunburn.
Skipping Lesser-Known Spots in Favor of Popular Destinations
While your main trip may include walking down Mainstreet or visiting the Florida Keys, one of the mistakes tourists make while traveling to Florida is skipping out on the local attractions and museums during their stay.
These places feature all kinds of historical and cultural significance to the local area, which is perfect for exploration and educational experiences. As you fill up your itinerary with the primary stops, leave time slots for strolling through the following local sights.
Visit Historical Landmarks
Locations like St. Augustine, the oldest city in the US, provide fascinating glimpses into American history. For those staying near Tampa, take time to explore the Ybor City Historic District and its Cuban influence. By learning more about the local area, you’ll find a new appreciation for the culture and teach your little ones more about the nation as a whole.
Book Tickets in Advance
Plan ahead for both local and popular destinations, as many tourists crowd these attractions during peak travel seasons. Booking ahead reserves your preferred dates and times, and it could often save you a few dollars. This is especially true for theme parks and attractions like boat tours in the Everglades, where they may not accept spontaneous bookings.
Ignoring Dining Convenience and Cultural Foods
While you may want to eat at the most convenient chain restaurant in town, there are many areas that feature cuisine not found anywhere else in the US. Use this trip as an opportunity to try new flavors and check out the local dine-ins. Florida has an incredibly diverse food scene that you won’t want to miss!
Sample Fresh Seafood
If you’re visiting coastal areas, don’t skip out on Florida’s fresh seafood options such as stone crab claws, grouper sandwiches, and conch fritters. These regional delicacies are best experienced fresh!
Don’t Underestimate Quick Dining Options
Theme parks and tourist-heavy areas feature exquisite dining among quick eateries. Especially at Disney World, you should reserve when and where to eat, so you won’t have to worry about waiting for an available table. Some locations offer apps for mobile ordering, which allow families to avoid long lines and grab a bite without missing out on activities.
Overlooking the Importance of Rest and Relaxation
With so much excitement, it’s easy to overschedule yourself. Overexerting can take the joy out of the vacation and leave the whole family drained. Leave extra free time in between activities to give everyone a rest.
Include Downtime in the Trip Itinerary
It’s tempting to fill every day to the brim with activities, but building downtime into your schedule will keep the family mentally and physically healthy. Spend a morning by the pool or take an afternoon stroll through a quiet park around the hotel. If needed, go back to the hotel and take a brief nap before dinner. Breaks can help you reset and fully appreciate the bigger moments of your trip.
Keep Expectations Realistic
Trips to Florida typically involve walking, visiting theme parks, and driving long distances for attractions. Setting realistic expectations for what you can do will reduce stress and improve your overall experience. Remember, a fulfilling vacation is about quality, not quantity!
Forgetting To Budget for the Unexpected
Many new travelers don’t sufficiently budget for unexpected expenses; they might find souvenirs and food costly upon arrival. From extra tolls on roads to spontaneous purchases at local gift shops, vacation costs can quickly add up, so budget accordingly!
Plan for Tolls and Parking
Florida’s highways commonly feature toll roads, and parking is expensive, especially at theme parks or urban centers like Miami’s Art Deco Historic District. Make room in your budget for these small but frequent expenses to have more money in your wallet for the fun attractions.
Set Aside a Contingency Fund
Unexpected situations, such as needing a quick wardrobe change due to weather or extending a stay by a day, are more manageable with a set-aside contingency fund. This cushion will give you more financial flexibility and peace of mind.
Whether you’re driving down to Florida or booking a flight, pack all the essentials you and your family will need for the adventure. Be mindful of any extra weight in your baggage that could lead to costly fines or car troubles during your travels. Once you’re ready for the trip, explore the beautiful Florida sights and taste the delicious delicacies you won’t find anywhere else in the nation!