So you're going to Sanibel Island, Florida on vacation! Congratulations! It will be a fun and relaxing vacation with many happy memories. But first, you need to pack all your stuff so you are prepared for your journey to paradise.
Most likely you are staying in a resort, cottage or condo which will be larger than a regular hotel room. Most of these units have a small kitchen area for your use. So let's start with meals and snacks and what to bring regarding food and drinks.
I like to bring snacks and drinks with me so I don't have to make a visit to the grocery store. Nothing says drudgery more than having to go to the grocery store while on vacation. So, I pack a box with breakfast items such as Pop-Tarts and Rice Krispie Treats! I also bring small individually wrapped snacks to munch on during the week. Examples are bring potato chips, cookies, peanuts etc. I like the food to be individually wrapped because it makes it easier to put the snacks in your beach bag. Also, south Florida is well known for having small black ants that like your food! Keeping your food sealed (I recommend zip-lock bags) will prevent food loss after an ant invasion!
I also bring a large quantity of water, juices and diet drinks. Place the drinks in the refrigerator as soon as you arrive and then you are set for the week.
Next, you need to think of what you need for the beach! Items to remember are your favorite chair, lounger, umbrella, sand digger and straw mats. Most of the hotels, condos and resorts provide chairs for you (some do not, so check beforehand). So many are not comfortable thus I prefer to bring my own chair with me. Remember to bring your beach bag with all the essentials, such as beach towels, visor, suntan lotion, water spray bottle, sunglasses, cover-up and a book or a magazine.
Next, what do to you pack to wear for a week on Sanibel Island? The best thing to remember is that the temperature will be comfortable most of the year, so heavy clothing is not needed. In the summer it can be hot, so think cool cottons. Shorts and short sleeve shirts are a must. Shorts and tops are fine for every restaurant. The restaurants are all casual (but no cut offs, flip flops or tee-shirts for the nicer places). Leave your suit, tie and dress at home. You probably will wear your swim suit most of the day. And I have gone to many restaurants wearing my swim suit under a cover-up for lunch (but don't do it for dinner). It's a resort-like atmosphere all over the island. Be comfortable and enjoy your vacation!
I would bring a light jacket for when it rains. It will help keep you dry as you dash to the vehicle. During the summer months, be prepared for monsoon-like rains during the afternoon and early evening hours. The storms usually don't last long but can come at inconvenient times, like right when you're ready to leave for dinner! Keep a beach or bath towel in the car so you can dry off after the mad dash to the vehicle. Don't forget the umbrella!
Sandals and flip flops are the norm for the day. If your intent is to rent a bicycle while on the Sanibel I would recommend bringing athletic shoes for that kind of activity. The athletic shoes tend to get dirty and greasy, so bring an older pair if possible. Also if you get caught in the rain, having a dry pair of shoes back at your resort will be a good thing!
Most importantly don't forget the camera. You want to be able to catch all those great memories for your scrapbook.
I hope this list of ideas assists you when packing for your vacation to Sanibel Island, Florida. It's a little bit of paradise and I hope you have a wonderful time!
