Last updated: June 2026 — a practical packing guide for British families heading to the Sunshine State.

You'll remember the passports, the sun cream and the kids' favourite teddy. It's the small, easy-to-overlook items that catch UK families out in Florida — the ones you end up buying at a premium in a theme park gift shop because you didn't think to pack them at home. Here's the list that saves you money and hassle.

The afternoon storm kit

Florida summers bring near-daily afternoon thunderstorms. They're usually short and dramatic rather than all-day washouts, but they will soak you if you're caught out. Pack lightweight rain ponchos for everyone — they fold to nothing in a day bag, and they cost a fraction of the branded ponchos sold at the parks once the heavens open.

Refillable water bottles

The Florida heat is no joke, and staying hydrated with bought bottled water all day gets expensive fast. Pack a reusable water bottle per person — most theme parks have water fountains and will give you free cups of iced water at quick-service counters. Over a two-week holiday, that's a real saving.

Sun protection that actually copes

UK sun cream habits don't survive Florida. Pack high-factor (SPF 50) sun cream, and plenty of it, plus hats and sunglasses for everyone. Sun cream bought in resort or at the parks is markedly pricier than at home, so stock up before you fly. A small after-sun is worth tucking in too.

A portable charger

Your phone is your park map, your ride-booking app, your camera and your queue-time checker — and all of that drains the battery by lunchtime. A portable power bank keeps you going through the day and saves you hunting for a charging spot. One per adult is sensible.

Comfortable, broken-in shoes

Families routinely walk tens of thousands of steps a day in the parks. New trainers bought specially for the trip are a classic mistake — they cause blisters by day two. Bring comfortable shoes you've already worn in, and pack blister plasters just in case.

A light layer for the air conditioning

It sounds odd when you're heading somewhere hot, but Florida's indoor air conditioning is fierce. Restaurants, shops and shows can feel genuinely cold. A light cardigan or hoodie for each person makes indoor breaks far more comfortable, especially for little ones.

The practical bits Brits overlook

  • US plug adapters — your UK plugs won't fit, and hotel-bought adapters are overpriced. Pack a couple.
  • Small dollar bills — useful for tipping, which is far more customary in the US than at home. Having singles ready saves awkwardness.
  • Any regular medication — bring enough for the whole trip in its original packaging, plus basics like paracetamol and children's medicine, as US brands and dosages differ from what you know.
  • A foldable day bag — light enough to carry round the parks, big enough for ponchos, water and snacks.
  • A change of clothes for the water rides — someone always gets drenched.

Don't overpack

The flip side: you don't need a fortnight of outfits. Most Florida villas and many hotels have laundry facilities, so a week's worth of light, breathable clothing washed mid-trip is plenty. Leave room in the case — you'll want it for the inevitable souvenirs on the way home.

The bottom line

Florida holidays reward a bit of forward thinking. Ponchos, water bottles, sun cream, a power bank and worn-in shoes are tiny things to pack but big things to be without — and packing them at home rather than buying them in the parks keeps more of your holiday budget where it belongs.