As you plan your travels this summer, one destination you must add to your list is Florida. A previous post highlights reasons to visit the Sunshine State, which include its tropical climate and stunning beaches. This means that beyond the hustle and bustle of cities like Miami, you can escape to best beaches like Daytona and Clearwater with their serene coastlines, stretches of sand, and turquoise waters.
What’s more, there are also budget-friendly beach towns for travelers who want to experience Florida without making a huge dent in their budget. Such towns include Tarpon Springs, which is the Sponge Capital with traces of Greek culture and history, as well as Sebastian, a quaint fishing village where you can do tons of outdoor activities like swimming, boating, diving, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
With so much to see and do on Florida beaches, you’d want to stay safe and prepared for a smooth and stress-experience. So, below are travel essentials to pack for your next beach vacation in Florida.
Sunglasses
While you can enjoy year-round sunshine in Florida, remember that the state’s ultraviolet index can reach high to extreme levels. So, it’s best to wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV damage, which can otherwise degrade your vision and raise the risk of eye conditions like photokeratitis.
Instead of going for an ordinary pair of sunglasses, consider getting polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and improve visual clarity, whether you’re embarking on aquatic adventures like surfing on Cocoa Beach or driving for a road trip to Tampa Bay. Optical retailer Eyebuydirect offers polarized lens options for its affordable and beach-friendly frames, such as the metal aviator Good Vibrations and oversized sunglasses Itinerary.
Sunscreen
Complete your sun protection by not just wearing sunglasses but also applying sunscreen. Prioritize sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, thereby minimizing UV-induced skin damage and premature aging.
Additionally, consider mineral sunscreens from brands like Dr Dennis Gross and Neutrogena as opposed to the usual chemical sunscreen. Not only are mineral sunscreens suited for all skin types, but the lack of active ingredients like oxybenzone also means you don’t harm coral reefs, which you can come across when snorkeling or diving west of the Florida Keys.
Slippers or sandals
If you plan to stay at beach resorts like the luxurious Ritz-Carlton in Orlando or the family-friendly The Breakers on Palm Beach, remember to pack a pair of slippers or sandals. They are easy to slip on and off as you move between the indoor and outdoor areas.
Among the beach-ready footwear worth considering are the styles released under the Sanuk x Surfrider capsule collection. These include their best-selling men’s and women’s sidewalk surfers and a comfy sandal with a customizable strap. The collection incorporates materials like quick-dry nylon and recycled polyester for optimal comfort, durability, and breathability.
Water bottle
Lastly, bring a handy water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated despite the warm and humid climate. Brands like Thermoflask, Yeti, and Hydroflask have insulated water bottles that are easy to carry and keep hydrating beverages like water and energy drinks cold for hours. You also don’t have to worry about spills if you keep the bottle in your bag, as these are designed to be leak-proof.
Besides packing these travel essentials, watch out for signs of dehydration and heatstroke, which include headache, dizziness, nausea, and extreme thirst. Such conditions are rampant in the sun-soaked weather of Florida, but investing in sun protection and hydration through the aforementioned items can help ensure a safe and healthy travel experience.
