If you are travelling to a place where the dress code is largely casual, you won’t need to worry about the amount of weight you are taking. You won’t want to spend time organising laundry unless you have to but T-shirts and shorts take minimal space and are generally lightweight.
Miami’s latitude in the south of Florida, USA, is such that it is never really cold. There are some seasonal variations with some months more prone to rainfall. However, much of what you should pack for Miami is relevant all year around. Life is also very casual so the only more formal, fashionable if you like, clothing you will need will be for a good restaurant or a trendy nightclub.
T-shirt and shorts yes, casual footwear as well should make your suitcase. You should take the best walking shoes you have as well in case you intend to do some exploring. Short sleeves are fine most of the time, even late at night.
Climate
Miami’s climate is classified as a tropical monsoon climate. The days when the temperature falls below 60F (15 C) are in single figures. Winters are dry with the months between June and September getting the most rainfall. In those months, however, temperatures average around 90F (32 C). You can see that there is never a time to pack a coat; just a light showerproof jacket.
The months between June and September average between 6 and 8 inches of rain in the month. It is rare that rain will spoil the day. Once a shower finishes, it is likely that the clouds will clear and the sun will come out soon afterwards.
A jumper is usually sufficient at night although check for nightclub and fine dining restaurant dress rules to ensure you can comply.
Clothing
Casual rather than formal is the main principle behind packing for Miami. There may be slight variations depending on your decision on where to stay in Miami. A minority of places may require you to cover up your swimwear within the hotel and its restaurant.
Tops
- T-shirts are standard wear by day on Miami’s hot days. There are no daytime venues that don’t accept T-shirts as standard wear.
- Short-sleeved shirts are fine in the evenings. A long-sleeved shirt or two will always be useful if the temperature drops a little but not enough to wear a jumper.
- A smart jacket can be needed if you are intending to go to a place with a defined dress code.
- A showerproof jacket if the forecast suggests there may be rain during your time in Miami.
Bottoms
- Swimwear and shorts are essential if you are going to spend time in Miami.
- Light trousers are useful to comply with dress codes or for nights when there may be a little chill in the air.
- A dress or skirt for ladies will comply with any dress codes you may encounter.
Sundries
- Socks to suit your footwear.
Footwear
- Your comfortable walking shoes are useful for travelling as well as for times on holiday when you might spend a day walking. If they pass any dress codes that you may encounter, it saves you adding another pair of shoes.
- Sneakers are good casual wear for daytime in Miami or time at the beach. Take a pair that allows your feet to breathe because you want to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- Open toed-sandals and flip-flops are great for the beach.
Sundries
Your camera is important although you may be happy using your smartphone for your photos. That will be in your pocket as you travel. If you are a reader and intend to just relax a few days and catch some rays, you’ll need a book or two. Medication, including perhaps some bug spray, suntan lotion, a cap, and sunglasses are all important. You may want a small umbrella at some times of the year.
Conclusion
If you are travelling to a place where the dress code is largely casual, you won’t need to worry about the amount of weight you are taking. You won’t want to spend time organising laundry unless you have to but T-shirts and shorts take minimal space and are generally lightweight.
If you leave a little space in your suitcase, you can do a little shopping and have space without needing another small case. There are plenty of shops if you forget something but if you follow these lists, you should have everything you need.
