Packing Tips for Christmas in Florida with the Grandparents

After living for so many years in the cold north, many retirees head for Florida, the Sunshine State. However, even though it’s called by a name that you would expect to be sunny and warm throughout the entire year, that isn’t always the case. In the northern part of the state, it can get cold, not as cold as the northern tier of the nation, but sometimes you can actually see snow flurries. Even so, if they’ve moved south for the warmth, they are probably far enough south where it stays sunny and warm throughout the winter. So then, what should you pack for mom, dad, and the kids?

Beach Attire Is a Must

If you really want to impress grandma and grandpa and their newfound friends in the retirement village, you will need a few flashy designer fashion pieces for the kiddos. Have you checked out kidswear from Gucci lately? There is a whole line of Gucci Kids clothes where you will find fashionable slides that they will love wearing to the beach. Bring swimsuits with you, sun hats with extra wide brims and don’t forget the sunscreen. If you don’t have room for towels, they can be purchased locally. In fact, you can then leave them with the grandparents for the next time you wander on down. For mom and dad, you probably already have bathing suits, but it’s the kids the grandparents will be paying the most attention to, so dress them in style!

Casual Day Attire

Perhaps it’s best to think of the weather in Florida during the holidays like the average temperature up north in the late spring to early summer. It is definitely not as hot as it would be in the summer, so perhaps a couple of pairs of shorts, a few lightweight sleeveless tops, and perhaps a couple of pair of pants or leggings. Do bring a sweater though, because nights can get a bit chilly. If you are driving, you may have a bit more room, but a couple of changes of clothes should be sufficient. Chances are the grandparents have a laundry room so you can simply launder the clothes as needed.

The Incidentals

Don’t forget to pack any prescription medication but if it’s OTC, there are plenty of pharmacies throughout the entire state. In fact, many people say that it’s like one giant city up the coast from Miami to Jacksonville. That’s how populated it is! Mom, you’ll want to bring your toiletries and cosmetics while dad will need his razor and shaving cream.

Just remember that there is plenty to see and do so you will probably be busy from morning until night so those comfortable slides along with a pair of athletic shoes would do well. You can dress in lightweight pajamas at night so that won’t take up much room. The important thing is to dress the kids well because grandma and grandpa will be taking them around, showing them off. The bottom line? When packing for a family vacation in Florida with the kids, focus on them. They will be the highlight of your stay with grandma and grandpa, so that really is who you should pack for!