What to Pack for Miami, Florida
Or any warm-weather spring trip you have booked.
Admittedly, I’ve put off writing this newsletter for a while. Transitioning from a full-time job (and travel writing on the side) to freelance writing as my main gig took more brain power than I initially anticipated. It also felt a bit… off to write about my trips and packing lists with everything going on in the world.
That said, there are a number of new subscribers here—and if you’ve signed up for this newsletter, you want packing tips and recommendations. So I’m officially back on the twice-a-month cadence, starting with the Miami packing list I promised in my last newsletter.
Back in January, I traveled down to Miami in search of some warm weather and sunshine at Four Seasons Hotel Miami—which I wrote about in a recent Kayak article. While the low 70-degree days didn’t quite hit the spot, my best friend and I were able to enjoy several hours of reading, napping, and chatting by the pool. We even managed to stay up slightly later than normal, venturing out into Little Havana for mojitos and classic Cuban food.
My packing list for this trip included mostly old favorites from last year—but it also got me thinking about the beachwear and other tropical clothing I’ll want to add to my rotation for other trips this summer…
Pool-day attire: Crochet pants, a one-piece, and an oversized cardigan
My favorite part of packing for a trip like Miami is that I don’t really need to bring daytime clothes. I go from bed straight to the pool or beach, where I’ll camp out until it’s time to get ready for dinner. That said, I still make sure to pack separates that can serve as a cover-up of sorts, just in case I opt for a non-poolside lunch.
Shoes and accessories: Ray-Bans, sandals, and a personal item that also works as a beach bag
When I’m traveling somewhere warm, I try to only pack one pair of sandals. They should be versatile enough that they can be worn to the pool, out to lunch, or even during the travel day (although I prefer to wear lightweight sneakers on the plane). I’m also a forever fan of my Ray-Ban Wayfarers, so those come with me everywhere. When I fly somewhere tropical, I swear by the “travel hack” of bringing a beach bag as my personal item. It just has to be sturdy enough to hold my laptop and toiletry bag while in transit.
Dinner outfit: Basic but elevated tank top, trouser-like denim, and platform heels
These days, when I say I’m going to “dress up,” I usually mean some sort of jean (either a wide-leg, barrel-leg, or trouser style) paired with a simple top and a chunky heel or slingback. It keeps things easy, especially when I’m traveling multiple times a month, and it’s a combo that can be dressed up even further with a chunky gold earrings and a red lip.
My luggage: Away Bigger Carry-On and packing cubes
As always, my Away Bigger Carry-On traveled with me from Charlottesville down to Miami, and I kept everything you see above tucked away in these packing cubes. I do keep testing different suitcases, but I can honestly say none have come close to the Away version in terms of durability and spaciousness. I’ll keep you updated, though.
