Orlando's climate drives almost every packing decision. Summers (June to September) are hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; winters are mild and drier, with cooler evenings from December to February. Pack for heat and sudden rain first, everything else second.
The essentials
- Lightweight, breathable clothing — linen and cotton over synthetics
- A compact rain jacket or poncho (afternoon storms are short but heavy)
- Comfortable walking shoes you have already broken in
- Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- A refillable water bottle
- Swimwear, even outside summer — most hotel pools are heated
What people forget
- A light layer for aggressively air-conditioned restaurants and malls
- Blister plasters — theme park days regularly exceed 15,000 steps
- A small dry bag or zip bags for phones on water rides
What to consider renting instead
Bulky items are the ones worth questioning. Strollers, travel cots and high chairs are widely used by visiting families; beach gear, coolers and sports equipment are heavy to fly with. Check what is available at your destination before paying airline baggage fees — AuroRent lists confirmed local inventory where partners exist, and lets you register interest where they do not yet.
Weather by season
Check the National Weather Service forecast for Melbourne/Orlando in the week before you travel; hurricane season runs June to November and can change plans at short notice.