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Heading to Florida in January and wondering what you should pack? You’ve come to the right place!
January is one of my favorite months in Florida because you get to enjoy the best of the Sunshine State without the crowds.
Most visitors come for Christmas or Spring Break so January offers a bit of a quiet time with great weather (compared to the rest of the US).
It is considered to be the “snowbird” season, so you should expect to see other travelers escaping colder climates, especially in places like Miami, Orlando, and the Gulf Coast but it’s still quiet compared to March.
But the best thing about Florida in January is the weather itself because the temperatures are mild which means you can enjoy all activities available.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what to pack so you’re prepared for both sunny days and cool evenings.
What is the Weather Like in Florida in January?
January in Florida offers a mix of mild, sunny days and cooler nights.
Depending on where you are in the state, temperatures vary.
In northern areas like Jacksonville or Tallahassee, you can expect temperatures around 7°C to 19°C (45°F to 66°F), while in the south, such as Miami or the Florida Keys, daytime highs are often between 15°C and 24°C (59°F to 75°F).
Rain is less frequent, but occasional showers can pop up, so having a light, water-resistant layer is a good idea. It’s a month that calls for versatile clothing options to stay comfortable throughout the day and stay warm in the evening.
Essential Packing List for Florida in January
Here’s the ideal packing list to help you make the most of your trip to the Sunshine State in January!
Please keep in mind that you need to adapt it depending on which area you are visiting. You will definitely need more layers in Northern Florida.
Clothing
- Jacket: Mornings and evenings can be cool, so bring a jacket to wear then. It can be quite light if you are going to Miami but it needs to be medium weight for Northern Florida. Tampa Bay is in between which means that you could use either. I personally think it’s a bit cool at night especially if you’re going to an outdoor event so I like having a medium weight one.
- T-Shirts and Tank Tops: Perfect for daytime when temperatures are warmer. Opt for breathable fabrics, like cotton or linen, to stay comfortable.
- Cardigan: That’s the perfect top layer because it keeps you warm if you close it or you can wear it open if it’s warmer. It’s very useful in the evening as well.
- Light Pants or Jeans: For cooler evenings, jeans or lightweight pants are great. They’re easy to pair with sweaters or jackets if temperatures drop.
- Shorts: Pack a couple of pairs of shorts, especially if you’re spending time in southern Florida or by the beach.
- Dresses: No vacation in Florida would be complete without dresses. I recommend beach dresses for the day and long maxi dresses for the evening because they keep you a bit warmer and they look classier.
- Beachwear: Swimsuits and cover-ups are essential if you plan to hit the beach, pool, or any resort amenities. The water may be chilly in northern and central Florida, but southern areas are usually warm enough for a swim. Also, if you are visiting Central Florida, you can go for a swim in the springs which are always at the same temperature.
Shoes
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Whether you’re exploring theme parks or city streets, comfortable sneakers or flats are essential for long days of walking.
- Sandals: A pair of comfortable sandals is perfect for warm afternoon and casual evenings (in Southern Florida)
- Closed-Toe Flats or Loafers: These can be handy for cooler days or evenings, especially in more northern parts of Florida.
- Flip flops: Essential for the beach.
Accessories
- Sun Hat or Cap
- Sunglasses
- Light Scarf: A light scarf or shawl can add a bit of warmth for the evening chill or double as a stylish accessory.
- Umbrella: Though January isn’t the peak rainy season, brief showers are possible, so it’s wise to have a compact umbrella.
- Waterproof pouch for your phone: That’s very practical if you go kayaking or paddling.
Electronics
- Phone & Charger
- Power Bank
- Camera
- GoPro: There are a lot of water activities you can do in Florida so having a GoPro always comes in handy.
- International Adapter: If you’re visiting from outside the US, bring a type A or B adapter.
Paperwork
- ID
- Bank Cards & Some Cash
What to Wear in Florida in January Depending on the Weather
☀️ If it’s sunny ☀️
Wear a short-sleeve top, shorts, and a hat. A light jacket or sweater is handy for cooler morning or evening temperatures.
🌥️ If it’s partly cloudy 🌥️
A t-shirt paired with jeans works well. Add a light scarf or jacket if it’s a breezy day.
🌧️ If it rains 🌧️
A light rain jacket over casual clothes like a t-shirt and pants.
Things Not to Wear in Florida in January
- Heavy Winter Coats: Florida’s winter is mild, so thick coats aren’t necessary.
- Thick Wool or Heavy Sweaters: Even on cool days, you’ll rarely need more than a light sweater or jacket.
- Boots or Heavy Shoes: Unless you prefer boots, lightweight shoes or sandals are more practical.
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