Items to Pack for a Vacation to Orlando, Florida

Packing for a vacation to Orlando, Florida doesn't have to be a headache. In fact, keeping the packing simple and light is the best way to go. Don't forget the necessities, however. Here's a must-haves checklist of items to include in your Orlando vacation bag.

Seasonal Clothing
Just because Orlando has palm trees doesn't mean it's always 90 degrees. In fact, January through March can get down into the forties. If you'll be in Florida in the winter months bring long pants and a sweater. Dressing in layers isn't a bad idea. Adding a little at night and removing a little during the afternoon will keep you comfy in the mercurial Orlando climate.

Sunscreen
The Florida sun is brutal no matter what time of year it is. Of course it's tempting to get good and crispy so the folks back home will be jealous, but an atomic sunburn is no way to enjoy a hard earned vacation. What a bummer it would be to spend a couple days in bed with sun poisoning! As a favor to your skin and a favor to your traveling companions, slather on the SPF and reapply throughout the day.

Rain Gear
Orlando is surpassed only by Kamapla, Uganda as the lightning capital of the world. It will rain every day in the summertime. It will rain torrentially, it will bring lightning and thunder like you've never known, and it will stop and start suddenly. If it doesn't rain, you got lucky. The theme parks would love to sell you a rain poncho for $10 or more, but why not bring one from home? Most sporting goods stores sell them for 99 cents and they fold down to about the size of a cell phone. It's a worthy investment considering the chafing and prickly heat rashes that go along with getting drenched in an afternoon storm.

Money Saving Souvenirs
If you'll be hitting the theme parks with the kids, they will be begging for all the trinkets they see in the gift shops. Before packing your bag go to your favorite discount retailer and buy a bunch of Disney themed toys. The same merchandise is often available at Wal-Mart as the Disney gift shops. Buying your souvenirs ahead of time will not only save money but it will give you some leverage when the little ones start whining. When they start nagging for that toy in the theme park gift shop tell them they'll get something at the end of the day if they're good. "But I need it," they'll pout and stomp. Let them know they'll get it at dinner - but only if they're good! They'll simmer down and you can present your economical gifts later on.

Cash
Cash is king. Overspending during an Orlando vacation happens to families all too often thanks to the convenience of credit and debit cards. Setting a daily cash budget will keep you from going home with unnecessary debt and a year or more of regrets. "But if my cash gets stolen I'll have no protection," you protest. If your debit card gets stolen you'll have no way to access your cash, I counter. Be responsible to your finances, just use cash.

Walking Shoes
Crocs and flip flops may be comfortable for errands around town. But they don't make for happy feet and joints after walking around Disney World for ten hours. One tiny blister can spoil a whole week of vacation. For those days when standing in long lines is requisite, wear solid shoes with arch support and proper cushioning.

Beach Goodies
Hitting the beaches? In addition to sunscreen, don't forget the beach towels, mp3 players, swimsuits and hats. Oh, and if you find any shark repellent, make sure pack that, too.