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What to Pack on an Orlando Road Trip & Why it Matters
Planning a family road trip to Orlando? You're in for quite a treat! Before you hit the road, let's talk about what to pack for an Orlando road trip to make the most of your vacation. Sure, you'll pack the usual stuff - clothes, toiletries, and everyday essentials. But, Central Florida has its own quirks, and being unprepared could put a damper on your fun.
Don't worry though - we've got your back! Along with our popular waterpark packing list, we've put together some practical, budget-friendly packing tips to make your Orlando adventure unforgettable... in the best way possible! From beating the heat to conquering the parks, these ideas will help your family trip go smoothly. So, let's dive in and get you ready for some Florida fun!
Non-Negotiables
- Refillable water bottles. Many theme parks and other public spaces around Orlando provide free water stations. Stay hydrated and save money by having refillable water bottles for the whole family.
- Portable phone chargers. Nobody enjoys having a dead cell phone, but the predicament is made all the more frustrating when you need it to navigate directions, your digital wallet, or locate your park admission at one of Orlando's theme parks. Keep a portable phone charger on hand to ensure a smoother trip altogether.
- Waterproof phone cases. Whether you're riding a water ride at Magic Kingdom or cooling off in the hotel pool, your family is sure to spend a portion of your Orlando vacation around water. Be prepared with waterproof phone cases for each member of the family.
- Cooling towels. Florida heat can be intense, especially in mid-June to mid-September when the heat index regularly rises above 100 degrees. Cooling towels are inexpensive and can provide quick relief from the heat and humidity.
- Compact rain ponchos. It may be the Sunshine State, but Florida is notorious for its predictable afternoon showers. Be prepared with lightweight ponchos for everyone, and avoid paying unnecessarily high prices at a theme park gift shop.
After you've booked from these exceptional discount vacation packages, you'll then want to explore some tips to help you make the most of your visit. The area has its own unique peculiarities, and being prepared can turn a good trip into a great one. Let's make sure your family has the car packed with everything they need to enjoy every moment in this beautiful part of Florida.
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Additional Items
- Small travel fan. Few places on the planet know humidity like Florida. And no one likes being miserably hot all day, especially while waiting in long lines at the theme parks. Beat the heat with a small travel fan or portable fan.
- Reusable straws. Many local spaces (including several spots at the Disney World resorts) provide paper straws only, so if anyone in your family is averse to that experience, you'll want to have reusable straws on hand. These are inexpensive and easy to pack, so you may consider them an "extra" with packing.
- Sand toys. If you plan to visit beaches near Orlando like Cocoa Beach or New Smyrna Beach, packing a few inexpensive sand toys can turn a beach visit into hours of entertainment (for your kids) and relaxation (for you) without having to purchase expensive beach accessories after you arrive.
- Binoculars. You know about Florida's land and sea beauty, but look up, and you'll see even more beauty in her sky. The state is home to more than 500 bird species, has regular space launches from the Kennedy Space Center on Florida's east coast, and is the lightning capital of the world. Take full advantage of all of that by having a pair of binoculars your family can share while you're there.
- Autograph book and pens. Your kids are sure to want a souvenir from their family vacation in Orlando. What better way for them to get that than through interactions with the beloved characters at the iconic Disney World theme parks? By spending less than you would on most gift shop items, you can give your children a fun, personalized keepsake they'll treasure for years.
You'll survive in Orlando with the basics listed above. But, you're not planning an epic family vacation to "the happiest place on earth" to merely survive. You want to thrive! So, plan on bringing some extra not-quite essentials to make your family's road trip even more epic.
The Ultimate Packing Guide
Extra Clothes (you'll sweat a lot!)
Portable Phone Chargers
iPads or Tablets and Chargers
Wallet (include driver's license, cash, and credit cards)
Gift Cards (almost every restaurant chain can be found in Orlando)
Personal Care Items
Headphones or Earbuds
Books for the Drive
Swimsuits and Towels
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Snacks for the Whole Family
Flip-Flops or Sandals
Walkable Shoes
Light Jackets (if visiting during cooler months)
Stroller or Baby Carrier (if applicable)
Water Toys and Goggles
Insect Repellant
Hand Sanitizer
Cooling Towels
Compact Rain Ponchos
Refillable Water Bottles
Autograph Books and Pens
Small Travel Fan
Binoculars
Reusable Straws
Sand Toys
Conclusion
With this comprehensive road trip packing checklist, your family is all set for an unforgettable Orlando adventure. From essential gear to beat the Florida heat to fun extras that'll make your trip truly special, you're now prepared for whatever the Sunshine State throws your way. Remember, a well-planned trip is the first step to creating lasting family memories.
Ready to turn your Orlando dreams into reality? Make Westgate Reservations your home base for the ultimate family vacation that won't break the bank. With spacious accommodations, fantastic amenities, and prime locations near all the top attractions, Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, Westgate Town Center Resort, and Westgate Vacation Villas Resort offers the perfect blend of comfort and value. Don't wait – start planning your budget family travel today!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The best times to visit Orlando are during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons. Sure, your kids may have to miss a few days of school, but they won't mind! Besides, these times offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and better prices on accommodations, making it both easier and more affordable for your family to enjoy their vacation.
A weeklong stay can be ideal for families who want to experience the many things to do in Orlando. This timeframe will enable your family to explore the major theme parks, enjoy local attractions, and even take a day trip to one of Florida's world-famous beaches without feeling rushed. If visiting for a shorter time, decide as a family the one theme park, destination, or experience you are most eager to experience and plan your trip accordingly.
The Orlando area offers a wide variety of clean, safe, and affordable accommodations for your family. For those seeking convenience and a more immersive experience, consider staying at one of the beautiful Westgate Resorts in Orlando that offer close proximity to the major attractions and a plentiful amount of amenities and activities.
As an alternative to high prices and long lines, consider visiting the Orlando Science Center or exploring the nature trails at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Both options provide fun and educational experiences for the family at a fraction of the cost of theme parks. You will also be exposed to Florida's natural beauty in ways not as easily found in the high-tourism hot spots. Realistically, there is endless things to do in Orlando besides theme parks and the major attractions.
INFOGRAPHIC: Road Trip to Orlando Essentials List – Designed through Westgate Reservations
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