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The Florida Keys is a popular destination getaway that boasts of crystal clear, blue waters and secludedbeaches. It is a favorite location for Spring Break, romantic vacations, destination weddings, and other specialevents.
Wondering what to wear on your Florida Keys vacation? Check out our carry-on size packing list!
The fact that it is just a 113 mile drive from the mainland Florida makes it an easy escape fromthe busy city life into a quiet, serene place where you can get in touch with the beauty of nature.
Because of its all-year round tropical climate, this is also the best place to escape the cold, drafty winterseason so Florida Keys villa rentalsand hotels can get booked up quickly.
Most of the happenings in Florida Keys have one similar feature, the casual dress code. When vacationing in the Keys, you can enjoy the casual and laid back atmosphere which the residents are known for.
No need to fuss about your clothes in your travel capsule wardrobe, because when packing for the Florida Keys, anything goes.
Blouse | Tank | Tee | Top | Dress 1 | Dress 2 | Shorts 1 | Jeans | Cardigan | Sweater | Shorts 2 | Skirt | Flats | Pumps | Swimsuit | Bag
10 Piece Florida Keys Packing List
Michael Stars Jersey Lycra Draped Halter
4 Tops
Arm yourself with playful tops that you can wear interchangeably. Add some spice to your outfitwith a spunky denim sleeveless shirt or liven it up with a colorful beach sleeve.
Of course, having neutraltops are a must; an oversized shirt gives you both comfort and style when paired with the right bottoms.Also, don’t forget to show off your waist with a nice cropped top as beach wear.
Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Modern-Skinny Jean
1 Pants
Jeans are very versatile, and you can wear them anywhere and never go out of style. Pair themup with classy tops for a more sophisticated look.
These are our favorite travel pants for women. You can wear them out for nice dinners while also using them for outdoor activities should the opportunity arise.
Amazon Essentials 5″ Drawstring Linen Short
2 Shorts
Going to the beach is the right time to show off those gams, andyou can only do so with the right pair of shorts. These can be beach shorts, hot pants, a mini skirt, etc – the style choice is yours.
Pack in the micro beach shorts that you can use whengoing on swimming, but also take a good pair of faux or leather shorts which you can wear on a nightout during your stay in the Keys. Go for a longer length or a skirt to meet your needs.
If you’re a fitness buff, pack a pair of workout shorts that can double up as beach wear.
Loveappella Roll Top Print Maxi Skirt
1 Maxi Skirt
Maxi skirts or dresses are perfect for the beach. Stroll around and walk on the sandy shore with astylish skirt and feel the wind and the sun with bliss.
Because of the Keys’ humid weather, you can alsokeep yourself comfortable and fashionable at the same time.
If you’re prone to a bit of thigh chafing when wearing skirts in humid conditions, you might want to take along some longer underwear, or anti-chafing products too.
To maximize your travel outfit options, choose one of these top 5 convertible travel dresses.
Amazon Brand Linen Halter Hawaiian Print Shift Dress
1 Dress
You will never know when a formal night-out comes in the Keys, with so many establishmentsfor you to enjoy a dinner date with a loved one.
Go and get yourself prettified by taking with you a playdress, which you can turn into a nice formal wear by adding the right accessories.
I’m currently in love with this versatile dress from Modcloth. Also a great price at $39.99!
Nic + Zoe ‘4-Way’ Three Quarter Sleeve Convertible CardiganPlus Size
1 Cardigan / Blazer
One way to spice up your regular dress is by adding a nice outerwear. Grab acardigan or a blazer and see how it can do wonders when paired even with the most basic looking dress.
This also works for the cooler nights in the Keys, so as not let the chills ruin your date.
The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video!
2 Shoes
Choose casual footwear, but don’t forget to bring something more formal and stylish. Closedpumps in nude are the perfect thing accessory —you can wear it with any outfit.
Or much better, choosesomething printed, which livens up solid colored clothes and puts an oomph in your style. Of course, youshould also have a comfortable pair of sandals you can use on your Florida Keys vacation.
Check out our favorite comfortable wedges and heels for travel.
Accessories
Accessories can transform any outfit and can turn a beach casual look into something more fancy.
Sunglasses are obviously a staple for sunny days, along with a floppy sun hat are essential for a beachy look.
Add a set of statement earrings to a simple outfit, and take it from day to night.
Think about how you style your hair too. Braids or a bun are great for the beach, for keeping cool. In the evenings change to a sleek up-do or style your hair differently to upgrade your look.
The makeup you wear has an effect on your image, and always remember – a slick of lipstick dresses up any style!
Check out our post for the best summer accessories to upgrade your look.
Travel Outfits for Your Florida Keys Vacation
Arrival
Comfy Jeans + Shirt + Sandals
Beach
Shorts + Top + Hat + Sandals
Sightseeing
Maxi Skirt + Top + Trendy Cap + Sandals
Dinner
Dress + Cardigan + Pumps + Bag
Nightlife
Top + Shorts + Pumps + Bag
How to Pack for Your Florida Keys Vacation
Packing cubes can help organize all the clothes you have in mind for your Florida trip. We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. The video below shows you how!
Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!
When planning your final packing list for vacation, remember to cater your packing choices to what fits your needs. If you plan on wining and dining, bring a co*cktail dress. If your idea of fun is in the sun, add a kaftan instead of the extra shorts. Happy travels!
What are your must haves for a Florida keys vacation? Share in the comments below!
For more North America packing lists, please read:
- What to Pack for Hawaii: Packing List
- What to Pack for Mexico
- Caribbean Cruise WearEssentials
Suggested travel resources:
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Tinaon September 24, 2023 at 6:48 am
I just got back from the Keys. I had heard it was very laid back and casual, but I still packed a pair of white shorts and a dressy top. I never wore them. We didn’t see anyone dressed up. It was very easy to adjust to the “island life”. We did a couple of fishing excursions, and I would suggest having a large ziploc bag to help contain any smelly clothes you would need to pack into your suitcase. And make sure to bring a hat and have your camera ready for all the beautiful sunsets!
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Susanon September 18, 2023 at 4:58 pm
Thank you so much for sharing your packing list for The Keys. My trip isn’t until next April, but I’m already preparing for it. The linen shorts you mentioned are very similar to some linen shorts I bought from Old Navy. They have reasonably priced linen pants and shorts that are super cute. I bought some linen shorts in black and beige. Super comfy and they kept me cool this summer in Indiana. I really liked the sheath linen dress, but sadly it is unavailable at this time.
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Winteron August 11, 2023 at 10:37 pm
Question! As and when you use clothes, how will you manage keeping used clothes and fresh clothes together in these cubes?
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Alexon August 17, 2023 at 6:10 am
Hi Winter, you could pack an empty packing cube dedicate just for your dirty clothing so that you keep your clean clothes separate from your dirty ones.
Have a look at this TFG article on how to handle your dirty laundry: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/traveling-with-dirty-laundry/
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Jennifer T Koontzon January 18, 2020 at 4:36 pm
I don’t think this is a good list for the Keys. For shoes, I’ve never seen anyone wearing pumps. (I’ve been to the Keys twice a year for 18 years). I’d suggest a pair of sneakers and a pair of sandals. A maxi skirt is too warm. Flowy sundresses, sleeveless tops, skorts, shorter skirts, and a light sweater. An umbrella and a small backpack to carry sunscreen and a water bottle. Jeans are almost always too warm. Try linen jogger instead. Or cropped leggings.
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Alexon January 21, 2020 at 12:13 am
Hi Jennifer, thank you for taking the time to share your insight with us. Happy travels! ?
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Toni Partinon November 10, 2020 at 7:07 am
I am going to the Keys for the first time the first week of December. I am reading alot of different things on what to wear. Its my husband’s 60th and neither of us have been there. I look at the average weather and it appears to be deceiving from what I’m reading?
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Sharion January 14, 2021 at 12:14 pm
I will be in in Key West Feb 4th for 3 days. Do I need to pack pants? And does anyone really dress up there?
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Alyssa Eriksonon November 25, 2018 at 6:06 am
A coverup for the beach or pool is good too to throw on over your suit ? Thanks for the ideas!
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Alexon November 26, 2018 at 2:13 am
Hi Alyssa, so pleased you found the article helpful!! Love your packing suggestion of a coverup, great idea!! 🙂
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allyon March 18, 2014 at 7:52 pm
where did get the maxi shirt? its really cute 🙂
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allyon March 18, 2014 at 7:53 pm
*she where did she get the maxi skirt.
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alexon March 19, 2014 at 5:26 am
The maxi skirt is from Top Shop
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Teliciaon March 13, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Where is the clutch from?
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alexon March 15, 2014 at 11:02 am
It’s sold out now but it was from ELUXE.CA
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wulanon October 1, 2013 at 6:36 pm
Hi Alex,
I’m from Indonesia. I really like your florida outfit, i wonder where did you get the white cardigan and white top ? what’s the material for the white top?
thanksReply
Jeanetteon July 11, 2013 at 1:42 pm
Like the packing list idea a lot. Can you please tell me what the weather there is like in January so I can work out a packing list for the winter month?
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alexon July 15, 2013 at 9:06 am
Hi Jeanette, this website shows you averages weather temps throughout the year: http://www.fla-keys.com/weather.cfm Thanks!
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Jeanetteon July 11, 2013 at 1:39 pm
These packing lists are great! Please tell me what the weather there is like in January. Same lists apply? or do we dress for colder weather.
Thanks for some tips.Reply
alexon July 15, 2013 at 9:06 am
Hi Jeanette, this website offers temps for teh Keys year round: http://www.fla-keys.com/weather.cfm Thanks!
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Jenniferon July 4, 2013 at 3:14 pm
Where is the dress from. I am in LOVE!!
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Ashleyon May 4, 2013 at 6:43 am
Where is this maxi skirt from?? I LOVE it!
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alexon May 4, 2013 at 8:40 am
Hi Ashley! The skirt is from TopShop although now sold out 🙁
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Lisaon March 22, 2013 at 2:16 pm
Is there a link to purchase the items shown? Would love to get some of these pieces.
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alexon April 12, 2013 at 11:15 pm
not for this post, but if you tell me what pieces you like, i can find out 🙂
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jackelineon January 29, 2013 at 11:25 am
I have been to the Keys before and I would definitely carry these in my luggage!
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alexon January 30, 2013 at 9:24 am
Thanks Jackeline – I’m glad you like the clothing choices! Thanks for reading!
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