Preparing for the Climate of Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida. Thrills, spills, and days in the famous bright Florida sunshine. Thousands plan vacations to one of America's hottest vacation destinations every year, and the heat doesn't just come from the popular theme parks and nightlife. Florida's climate includes a combination of radiant sunshine and high tropical humidity. Rainstorms are common, particularly throughout the summer months, and even after the refreshing rain has come and gone, the humidity hangs on. Yet the popularity of this Central Florida city as a vacation hub continues to grow. How can you enjoy a fantastic vacation outside in Orlando while maintaining your cool? Follow a few easy tips and make your magical memories even better!

Wear lightweight and loose clothing. Pack plenty of tank tops, T-shirts and shorts in lightweight materials and colors. Breathable materials will help wick perspiration from the skin and the light colors will reflect the sun, rather than absorb it. Looser clothing will prevent chafing and rubbing and will lend itself to higher comfort. Make sure to pack lots of extra clothes. A fresh change of clothing can be a big pick me up on a hot day.

Hats with brims and sunglasses. Sunshine beats down on your head and a hat can prevent sunburn on your scalp. A brim will also keep extra sunshine off your face and help keep you cool. A good pair of sunglasses with blockage against ultraviolet rays will also protect your eyes and lend to comfort in your vision. It's easy to forget about your head and eyes and remembering a hat and sunglasses can go a long ways towards keeping you safe and cool.

Waterproof sunblock and aloe lotion. If you could only have one item in your arsenal against Orlando's climate, it would be a high SPF sunblock. Choosing a waterproof sunblock will also help keep it working through perspiration, water rides and rain. Make sure you apply it frequently throughout the day to maximize the effects. Keeping an aloe lotion for after sun skin care will keep your skin moisturized and healthy and protect it from additional sun damage.

Stay hydrated. Water and electrolyte drinks are key to staying hydrated and comfortable in the Florida sun. Spending time outside can increase exertion and the need to stay hydrated is increased tenfold. Keeping bottled water or an electrolyte drink on hand at all times will prevent any heat conditions based on dehydration. Don't wait until you're thirsty...that could be too late. Keep the fluids coming all day and remain energized and healthy.

Cooling neckbands and cooling patches. Keeping your neck cool can help keep your core temperature down. WellPatch Migraine Pads are designed to help migraines, aches and pains. Applying one to the back of your neck can cool you down and keep working for up to eight hours. These can be found at your local Walgreens or at Drugstore.com. Cooling neckbands, filled with polymer can be dipped in cold water and wrapped loosely around your neck. As the water evaporates, it cools your neck and keeps your temperature down. Simply do a search for "cooling neck bands" on an internet search engine to find many places to choose from.

Adjust your schedule. There are many things to do and see in Orlando and sometimes it feels like there isn't enough time in the day to do it all. Planning to leave your hotel in the morning and not return again until it's time to sleep will set you up for fatigue and heat exhaustion. Plan your days around the weather and find your energy remaining high and your enjoyment reaching its peak. Head out early when the temperatures are still low and the crowds are not yet crazy. Have a good time and utilize the above tips to stay cool. Once lunchtime hits, get a bite to eat and then return to your hotel for a swim, air conditioned rest and some downtime. You will miss the hottest part of the day and the largest crowds. Head out again in the late afternoon and take advantage of the cooling day, early evening and nightime in Orlando.

There is much to do and much to enjoy in Orlando, Florida. The famous sunshine is a big draw for a Florida vacation and taking some time to really keep your cool will go a long way towards enjoying that bright sun and tropical climate.