Best Packing List for Florida Keys (From a Florida Local)

Discover the ultimate packing list for Florida Keys in this comprehensive guide. With over 20 years of travel experience to the Keys, we cover everything from clothing and accessories to specialty items!

The Florida Keys is a tropical paradise that has captured my heart for the last 20 years. From the vibrant sunsets of Key West to the tranquil beaches of Islamorada, this chain of islands offers an escape like no other. Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to a perfect vacation here (pun intended) is all in the packing. Trust me, I’ve made every packing mistake in the book, from forgetting sunscreen to overpacking with unnecessary gadgets. But after two decades of trial and error, I’ve honed my packing list to perfection.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my seasoned insights on what you absolutely need and what you can leave behind. I’ll break down the essentials into categories, sprinkle in some personal experience, and even provide a detailed table for weather and sea temperatures to help you plan your trip better.

This guide is your go-to resource for packing for the Florida Keys. So, let’s get started.

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Packing List for Florida Keys

Clothing

Tops: Light, breathable shirts are essential for the tropical climate of the Florida Keys. On my first trip, I made the mistake of packing heavy, synthetic tops. The result? I was drenched in sweat within an hour of stepping outside. I quickly learned that cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics are the way to go. They keep you cool and dry, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without feeling uncomfortable.

Bottoms: When it comes to bottoms, think shorts, skirts, and maybe a pair of long pants for cooler evenings. I remember packing only jeans on my first trip, thinking they’d be versatile. The heat made them unbearable to wear, and I ended up buying shorts from a local store. So, do yourself a favor and pack light, breathable bottoms.

Swimwear: You’ll be spending a lot of time in the water, so make sure to pack at least two swimsuits. This helps if your swimsuit didn’t dry overnight, and putting on a wet swimsuit is not a pleasant experience, trust me. Plus, we need fashion choices too!

Footwear: Footwear is another crucial aspect of your packing list. You’ll need flip-flops for the beach and comfortable walking shoes for exploring. Make sure your footwear is both practical and comfortable. For going out to dinner, dressy sandles will suffice – there aren’t many places you’ll find people wearing heels in the Keys.

Sundresses: A light, flowy sundress is perfect for a casual dinner or a beachside café. This is my go to dinner outfit in the Keys. Plus, it makes for some fantastic sunset photos!

Button-Down Shirts: For men, a button-down shirt paired with khaki shorts or slacks can be both stylish and comfortable. On our anniversary, my husband wore a linen button-down, and it was the perfect choice for the upscale restaurant we dined at.

Polo Shirts: Another versatile option for men is a polo shirt. It’s casual enough for a pub but can also pass for a nicer dinner place.

Accessories

Sunglasses: Sunglasses are non-negotiable when you’re spending time in a sunny location like the Florida Keys. I forgot mine during one trip and had to buy a pair at a tourist shop. They were overpriced and not very comfortable, so make sure to pack your favorite pair (or two) from home.

Hats: A wide-brimmed hat is essential for daytime activities to protect your face and neck from the sun. Don’t underestimate the power of the Florida sun on your trip. You don’t want a sunburned scalp, which can be both painful and prevent you from enjoying water activities for a couple of days.

Bags: When it comes to bags, a beach bag for daytime activities and a small backpack for excursions are ideal. You really won’t need a fancy purse during your trip and you don’t want to risk it getting ruined by the sand or salt water.

Toiletries

Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a must-have, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. Opt for SPF 50 or higher and make sure it’s water-resistant. I skimped on sunscreen during a snorkeling trip on my first visit, and the sunburn was so bad that I had to stay indoors for two days.

Insect Repellent: The tropics can be buggy, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. You might think the sea breeze would keep the bugs away during your trip, but you’d be wrong. You don’t want to get bitten like crazy and spend the next few days itching and uncomfortable.

Personal Care: Don’t forget to pack travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

Gadgets

Camera: A good camera is essential to capture the stunning landscapes and underwater scenes in the Florida Keys. I forgot mine on one trip and had to rely on my phone. While phone cameras are pretty good these days, the pictures just weren’t the same. So, if you’re big on photography, don’t forget your camera.

Phone Charger: A portable charger is a lifesaver for long days out exploring. During a boat trip, you may not have access to charging stations and might miss out on capturing some amazing sunset shots. So it’s a good idea to carry a portable charger to ensure your phone is always ready to capture those magical moments.

Waterproof Case: If you plan on participating in water activities, a waterproof case for your phone and camera is a wise investment. Just in case your phone takes an unplanned swim, it’ll help make sure your photos aren’t ruined.

Specialty Items

Snorkeling Gear: If you’re planning to explore the underwater world, consider packing your own snorkeling gear. I’m not a fan of renting gear if you don’t have to as it’s not only expensive but also not the best fit. So if at least a snorkel mask fits in your suitcase, go ahead and throw it in!

Fishing Equipment: For those interested in fishing, bringing some basic equipment can be beneficial.

Food and Snacks

Why: It’s always a good idea to pack some snacks, especially if you have specific dietary needs. I remember being on a remote beach with no nearby shops and feeling famished. I wished I had packed some energy bars or fruit to tide me over.

Travel Documents

Why: Keeping your travel documents organized and easily accessible is crucial. You don’t want a stressful experience that delays your trip so put all your travel documents in a dedicated pouch for important documents.

First Aid Kit

Why: A basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers is a must. There’s always a chance you might cut yourself on some coral while snorkeling. The nearest store may be miles away, so you won’t want to make do with a makeshift bandage until you could get proper first aid supplies.

Entertainment

Why: Don’t underestimate the value of good entertainment for downtime or travel days. On a particularly rainy day, I was stuck in my accommodation with nothing to do. I wished I had packed a good book or some board games to pass the time.

Seasonal Variations

Why: The Florida Keys have a tropical climate, but it’s still important to consider seasonal variations when packing. Don’t let yourself get caught off guard by the frequent rain showers. A light raincoat and umbrella might be helpful.

Kids and Family

Why: If you’re traveling with family, you’ll need to pack additional items like baby wipes, children’s sunscreen, and possibly even some toys. You’ll be thankful for the extra snacks and games you packed to keep them entertained.

Pet Supplies

Why: Traveling with pets requires some extra planning. I took my dog on one trip and was glad I packed her favorite toys, a portable water bowl, and some extra food. It made the trip more enjoyable for both of us.

Checklist: Packing List for Florida Keys

To wrap it up, here’s a quick checklist of all the items you should consider packing:

• Clothing: Tops, bottoms, swimwear, footwear, dinner wear
• Accessories: Sunglasses, hats, bags
• Toiletries: Sunscreen, insect repellent, personal care items
• Gadgets: Camera, phone charger, waterproof case
• Specialty Items: Snorkeling gear, fishing equipment
• Food and Snacks: Energy bars, fruit
• Travel Documents: Passport, ID, boarding passes
• First Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers
• Entertainment: Books, music, games
• Seasonal Variations: Raincoat, waterproof shoes
• Kids and Family: Baby wipes, children’s sunscreen, toys
• Pet Supplies: Portable water bowl, pet food, toys

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Weather and Sea Temperature Table

When planning and packing for your trip to the Florida Keys, it’s essential to consider the weather and sea temperature. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown based on data from Time and Date and SeaTemperature.info:

Month	Average High Temp (°F)	Average Low Temp (°F)	Average Sea Temp (°F)
January	75	64	74.8
February	77	66	74.8
March	79	68	76.1
April	82	72	78.6
May	86	75	81.3
June	88	79	84.4
July	90	81	86.2
August	90	81	86.7
September	88	79	85.6
October	86	77	83.1
November	81	72	79.3
December	77	68	77.0

FAQ’s

What’s the Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys?

• Answer: The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. Winter and spring offer pleasant weather but can be crowded. Summer and fall are quieter but come with the risk of hurricanes. I’ve visited during all seasons and each has its own charm.

Do I Need to Rent a Car?

• Answer: While it’s possible to get by without a car, having one gives you the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace. I’ve tried both ways, and having a car definitely enriched my experience.

What’s the Dress Code for Restaurants and Clubs?

• Answer: The Florida Keys are generally casual, but some upscale venues may have a dress code. I’ve learned this the hard way, so now I always pack a smart-casual outfit just in case.

Are the Florida Keys Dog-Friendly?

• Answer: Many areas in the Keys are dog-friendly, but always check in advance. I’ve traveled with my dog multiple times, and she’s always had a blast, especially at the pet-friendly beaches.

Is Wi-Fi Easily Accessible?

• Answer: Most hotels and many restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. However, connectivity can be spotty in remote areas.

What Type of Electrical Outlets are Used?

• Answer: The standard voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. I always carry a universal adapter to charge my gadgets.

How Do I Handle Tipping?

• Answer: Tipping is customary in the Florida Keys. A tip of 15-20% is standard for good service in restaurants and bars. I also tip tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff for exceptional service.

Can I Use Credit Cards Everywhere?

• Answer: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of connectivity issues. I’ve been in situations where only cash was accepted, so now I always keep some on hand.