Packing for Orlando in winter and early spring can feel confusing if you are expecting year-round heat. While Florida is known for sunshine, January, February, and March bring cooler mornings, mild afternoons, and occasional rain. Knowing what to pack ahead of time helps you stay comfortable, flexible, and ready for theme parks, outdoor attractions, and evening activities.
Read on to learn what to pack for Orlando in January, February, and March, with weather insights, theme park tips, and family-friendly recommendations.
Orlando’s Winter & Early Spring Weather
Orlando remains a top destination year-round, but winter and early spring offer some of the most comfortable conditions for visitors. Expect pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler evenings and low humidity compared to summer.
Typical Temperature Ranges
- January: Highs 66–73°F (19–23°C), lows 46–53°F (8–12°C)
- February: Highs 74–75°F (23–24°C), lows 52–54°F (11–12°C)
- March: Highs 78–79°F (25–26°C), lows 56–60°F (13–16°C)
While rare cold snaps can dip into the 40s°F, freezing temperatures are uncommon.
Rain Patterns, Humidity, and Sunshine
Winter and early spring fall within Orlando’s dry season. Average rainfall is low, but quick showers are possible.
- Rainfall: 1.8–2.1 inches per month
- Rainy days: 5–7 per month
- Humidity: Moderate, around 67–72%
- Sunshine: 7–9 hours per day
Light layers and rain protection are key, especially for theme park days.
Seasonal Events and Crowd Levels
- January–February: Lower crowds, shorter lines, relaxed pace
- March: Increased visitors due to spring break
Seasonal highlights include EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts, Universal’s Mardi Gras, and EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival beginning in March.
If you are traveling with children, planning ahead helps. This guide on Disney trip planning can help families stay organized and stress-free.
What to Pack for Orlando in Winter and Early Spring
Below is a complete packing guide to help you stay comfortable, prepared, and stress-free during your trip.
Clothing for Daytime Activities
Orlando’s daytime weather is generally mild and comfortable, perfect for lightweight clothing.
Pack these essentials:
- Breathable t-shirts and tops
- Short-sleeve shirts and tanks
- Lightweight dresses or casual outfits
- Shorts, capris, or light pants
- Athletic wear for park days
- One or two long-sleeve shirts
- Moisture-wicking fabrics for walking
Theme parks involve a lot of walking, and breathable fabrics help keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Evening Layers and Cool-Weather Items
Evenings in Orlando can feel chilly, especially from January through early March.
Bring:
- Light sweater or hoodie
- Zip-up jacket or windbreaker
- Cardigan or fleece
- Jeans or joggers
- Lightweight scarf
Rain Gear and Weather Protection
While winter is Orlando’s drier season, rain showers still happen.
Recommended items:
- Packable rain poncho
- Travel-size umbrella
- Water-resistant jacket
- Waterproof backpack or cover
- Zip-top bags for phones and electronics
These items are especially useful for theme park days, where sudden showers are common.
Footwear for Long Days at Theme Parks
Expect a lot of walking, often on hard pavement.
Best footwear to pack:
- Supportive walking shoes or sneakers
- Waterproof shoes or sandals
- Comfortable flats or slip-ons
- Flip-flops for pools or hotel use
Avoid: brand-new shoes or unsupportive sandals, which can cause blisters and fatigue.
Theme Park Essentials
These items make long park days much easier:
- Small backpack or crossbody bag
- Refillable water bottle
- Portable phone charger
- Cooling towel
- Handheld fan
- Sunglasses
- Snacks for kids
- Autograph book and marker (for character visits)
- Waterproof phone pouch
Theme parks rely heavily on mobile apps, so keeping your phone charged is a must.
Sun Protection (Year-Round Essential)
Even in winter, Florida sun exposure can be intense.
Pack:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- SPF lip balm
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Wide-brim hat or baseball cap
- Aloe vera or after-sun lotion
Sun protection is especially important during long outdoor days.
Toiletries and Health Items
Bring travel-size versions of essentials, plus a few extras for long days out.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Moisturizer and lip balm
- Hand sanitizer and wipes
- Small first aid kit
- Pain relievers
- Allergy medication
- Motion sickness remedies
- Insect repellent
These items are useful whether you’re at the parks, dining out, or relaxing at your vacation home.
Travel and Organization Essentials
- Packing cubes
- TSA-approved locks
- Luggage tags
- Copies of IDs and reservations
- Neck wallet or RFID pouch
- Laundry bag
- Reusable shopping bag
Packing cubes are especially helpful for families or longer stays.
What Families Traveling With Kids Should Bring
- Stroller (or plan to rent one)
- Extra socks and layers
- Snacks and refillable bottles
- Wet wipes and tissues
- Entertainment for lines
- Child-safe sunscreen
- Safety ID bands
Kids can get cold faster than adults, so extra layers are always a good idea.
Optional but Helpful Extras
- Camera or GoPro
- Tablet or e-reader
- Travel-size laundry detergent
- Collapsible laundry bag
- Reusable grocery bags
- Travel pillow for flights
For a complete checklist designed for vacation rentals, see this Florida packing list.
Final Tips for a Stress-Free Orlando Trip
- Check the forecast before departure
- Pack layers for temperature changes
- Bring rain gear even during the dry season
- Prioritize comfort over fashion for park days
- Use packing cubes for organization
- Plan transportation in advance during spring break
Pack smart, plan ahead, and enjoy everything Orlando has to offer.
Make Your Trip Even Easier with a FunStay Homes Vacation Rental
One of the best ways to simplify your Orlando vacation is by staying in a fully equipped FunStay Homes vacation rental.
Our homes are designed with travelers in mind, so you can pack lighter and travel more comfortably. When you stay with FunStay Homes, you’ll enjoy:
- Fully equipped kitchens – cook meals, store snacks, and save on dining out
- In-home laundry – wash clothes mid-trip instead of overpacking
- Spacious living areas – perfect for families and groups
- Private bedrooms and bathrooms – more comfort and privacy
- Resort-style amenities – including pools, game rooms, and outdoor spaces
- Family-friendly layouts – ideal for kids and multi-generational trips
Instead of worrying about luggage limits or daily logistics, you can settle in and enjoy the freedom of a true home away from home.
Book your stay with FunStay Homes and enjoy a stress-free Orlando vacation where everything you need is already waiting for you.
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