May Packing List for Tampa — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Moisture-Wicking ShortsEssential

  Keeps you dry as the 69°F humidity begins to feel heavy during 89°F afternoons.

• Light PoloEssential

  Breathable cotton or synthetic blends are needed for the 89°F Tampa sun.

• Mesh SneakersEssential

  Allows for maximum ventilation while walking Busch Gardens in 89°F heat.

• Waterproof Flip-FlopsEssential

  Transition easily from the pool to the sudden rain showers (8 precip days).

• High SPF SunscreenEssential

  The May sun is punishing; 89°F days require frequent reapplication at the beach.

• Polarized SunglassesEssential

  Essential for visibility against the intense glare of the 89°F sun on the water.

• Electrolyte TabletsEssential

  Prevents dehydration caused by heavy sweating in the 89°F subtropical heat.

Clothing

• Tank TopsRecommended

  Essential for surviving the 89°F heat while walking the exposed docks at Channelside.

• Moisture-Wicking ShortsEssential

  Keeps you dry as the 69°F humidity begins to feel heavy during 89°F afternoons.

• Linen SkirtRecommended

  Provides airflow and style for visits to the Tampa Museum of Art in 89°F weather.

• Light PoloEssential

  Breathable cotton or synthetic blends are needed for the 89°F Tampa sun.

Footwear

• Mesh SneakersEssential

  Allows for maximum ventilation while walking Busch Gardens in 89°F heat.

• Waterproof Flip-FlopsEssential

  Transition easily from the pool to the sudden rain showers (8 precip days).

• Slide SandalsRecommended

  Easy to kick off for a quick dip in the Gulf to escape the 89°F temperature.

Accessories

• High SPF SunscreenEssential

  The May sun is punishing; 89°F days require frequent reapplication at the beach.

• UV UmbrellaRecommended

  Provides personal shade during the 8 days of rain or intense 89°F sunlight.

• Polarized SunglassesEssential

  Essential for visibility against the intense glare of the 89°F sun on the water.

Gear

• Cooling TowelRecommended

  A lifesaver for outdoor theme parks when the real-feel temperature exceeds 89°F.

• Portable FanRecommended

  Provides immediate relief during humid 89°F afternoons at Curtis Hixon Park.

• Electrolyte TabletsEssential

  Prevents dehydration caused by heavy sweating in the 89°F subtropical heat.