Fort Myers Packing List
The ultimate checklist for your Gulf Coast vacation—from beach essentials to shelling supplies. Check items off as you pack!
Seasonal Packing Tips
Dec–Mar (Peak)
Pack layers—mornings can be cool (50s-60s). Light jacket essential for boat tours.
Apr–May (Shoulder)
Rain gear becomes more important. Still comfortable for outdoor activities.
Jun–Aug (Summer)
Pack light, quick-dry fabrics. Expect daily afternoon storms. Bug spray is critical.
Sep–Nov (Fall)
Hurricane season—check forecasts. Bug spray essential. Still warm.
Beach Essentials
0/12- Swimsuits (2-3)Essential
- Beach cover-up/sarong
- Wide-brim sun hatEssential
- Polarized sunglassesEssential
Essential for spotting dolphins and fish
- Beach towelsEssential
Hotels usually provide, but bring extras for day trips
- Waterproof phone pouchShop now →
- Reusable water bottleEssential
- Cooler bag for beach snacks
- Beach umbrella or tent
Can rent at most beaches for $30-40
- Beach chairs
Rentals available at $10-15/day
- Snorkel gear
Bring your own or rent locally
Shelling Supplies
0/6- Water shoes or reef walkersEssential
Protect feet from shells and rocks
- Shell identification guide
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum sells great guides
- Small bucket or pail
- Headlamp for early morning
Best shelling is before sunrise
- Knee pads (optional)
Helpful for extended shelling sessions
Clothing
0/10- Lightweight shorts (4-5 pairs)Essential
- T-shirts and tank topsEssential
- Sundresses
- Light cardigan or sweaterEssential
For AC and cooler evenings (Dec-Feb)
- Rain jacket or ponchoEssential
Essential May-October for afternoon storms
- Comfortable walking sandalsEssential
- Athletic shoes
For biking, hiking, and kayaking
- Dinner outfit
Most restaurants are casual, but some upscale spots exist
- Rash guard/swim shirt
Great sun protection for water activities
- Flip flopsEssential
Sun & Bug Protection
0/6- High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe)Essential
- Lip balm with SPFEssential
- Aloe vera gelEssential
You will get more sun than expected!
- Bug spray with DEETEssential
No-see-ums are fierce at dusk
- After-sun moisturizer
- UV-protective clothing
Electronics & Photography
0/8- Phone & chargerEssential
- Camera with telephoto lens
For wildlife photography
- GoPro or waterproof camera
- Power bankEssential
- Binoculars
For dolphin watching and birding
- Waterproof dry bag
Protects electronics during water activities
- Memory cards
- Tripod
For sunset photography
Health & Safety
0/9- Prescription medicationsEssential
- First aid kit
- Motion sickness medicine
For boat tours and fishing charters
- Band-aidsEssential
For shell cuts and blisters
- Hand sanitizer
- Pain relieversEssential
- Antihistamines
For bug bites and allergies
- Antidiarrheal
- Hydrocortisone cream
For bug bites and rashes
Travel Documents
0/9- ID/PassportEssential
- Airline tickets/confirmationEssential
- Hotel reservationsEssential
- Car rental confirmation
- Travel insurance documents
- Credit cardsEssential
- Cash (for beach vendors, tips)Essential
$50-100 in small bills
- Printed itinerary
- Emergency contacts list
Traveling with Kids
- Stroller (beach-friendly wheels)
- Baby sunscreen (6+ months)Essential
- Swim diapersEssential
- Floaties or puddle jumper
- Sand toys
- Baby carrier for trails
- Portable highchair/booster
- Snacks and formulaEssential
Packing Pro Tips
Pack Light
You'll live in swimsuits and shorts. Leave fancy clothes at home.
Buy Locally
Forgot something? CVS, Publix, and beach shops have everything.
Shelling Gear
If serious about shelling, invest in quality water shoes.
Leave Room
You'll bring home shells, souvenirs, and local treats.
Roll, Don't Fold
Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles.
Wear Bulky Items
Wear your heaviest shoes on the plane to save luggage space.
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