jettagirl

Ok. I want to start this by saying I don't need any smart alec remarks to this question. I honestly need some suggestions on what to pack for a last minute trip down to northern Florida. I have very limited space and don't want to waste any by bringing unneccessary items. I see the highs are in the mid 60's and lows in the 40's. So obviously I will be bringing a couple of sweaters. Should I bring tank tops as well? I am from Michigan so I honestly don't know if I will look like a complete freak if I wear a tank top? Does anyone know what people are wearing down there at this time of year? Thanks in advance for any helpful suggestions. And remember, I don't need any sarcasm. I know this forum all too well and some posters can get downright ugly. I'm looking for some helpful suggestions.

mah1980

Do not bring a tank top if the highs are in the 60's. Bring a short sleeve short for if it gets warmer than expected, although at this time of year in N. Fl the 60's is the norm.

N. Fl. has a very different climate than S. Fl. There are actual seasons, and it will get chilly during the winter season.

tcapp

I would definatly pack a little warm by dressing in layers. North Florida has been in the 30's in the morning but 60's and even 70's by early afternoon. It's very pleasant by afternoon, but still not overly warm. It's very cold in the morning.

bethsmall1

Hi, I agree with the last post layers is the way to go. When I woke up this morning there was ice on the grass. It is about 37 degrees. That will quikly warm up. Because your from MIchigan you probably won't feel the need to bundle up as much as we do. If you are staying near the beach the temp is warmer but the wind is stronger. inland it's colder. Keep your tank top at home I don't think you'll need it. And I agree with you about some people on this forum they can be really ugly. enjoy your trip.

SusanEva

Hi Jetta,

I would say pack the same things you would wear in Micigan for late September/early October. During the day, with sun you might feel like peeling off the layers. But after the sun goes down or if it's cloudy, you will want long sleeves on your tops and jacket or sweater.

Scarlett

I lived in Northern Florida last winter, this time of year was chilly at night, would warm up to 60s during the day..mostly sunny.
I wore layers, started out the day with a tee and a cotton sweater and maybe a light jacket, then took things off as it/or I warmed up.
Long pants, doubt it will be shorts/capris weather..
Good thing was that I could wear slides/mules all the time, so you can skip the warm socks and winter shoes..
If you are going farther south than Jacksonville, my advice might not be so good

Stephanie

jetta:

if you haven't left already, take a all weather trench. if it gets colder than average it works, if it is 60ish it works too by zipping out the lining.

RedRock

You may see people dressed in flip-flops and shorts to heavy coats and boots. The ones wearing the shorts will be the ones visiting from the far north. We see this every year. Whats cold for the locals is warm to the tourist.

Scarlett

I cannot remember ever needing a trench coat in Jax at any time of the year!
A light rain jacket maybe, with a sweater under it would be plenty warm enough.
My light suede jacket was usually too warm for the coldest days there.

Stephanie

scarlett:

I've talked with many people who have either lived in Florida year around or have visited in January and there are cold snaps here and there. One woman who travelled to Orlando one year in January told me they took all summer clothes and were trying to buy blankets in the area it was so cold. So I don't think its a guarantee that in Jacksonville, Gainesville it will be mid 60s and warmer.

BTilke

I'm visiting in the northern end of central Florida at the moment. Two days ago, the thermometer was at 38 degrees at 8 am and the temps never got much above 60. And breezy. As soon as the sun went down, it was quite chilly again. Yesterday was the warmest day since I arrived and the high was still under 70 degrees.
I brought along from Europe a downfilled winter coat and was glad to have it for an early morning walk and sunset boat cruise.
What kind of activities do you have planned? If you will be outside early in the morning or after dark (for more than just a walk from the car to a restaurant or mall), then you might want to bring a lined jacked. If you plan to do any lake cruises, then definitely bring something warmer than a sweater.
The last few days, I haven't seen anyone in tank tops.

Scarlett

Thank you Stephanie.
I lived in Jacksonville. I guess I just missed seeing anyone wearing a trench coat . Shorts and sweaters maybe, an occasional sighting of a NY matron with a fur jacket in a restaurant- but that is because the air conditioning is so high, you have to step outside to warm up LOL.
jettagirl, take layers, the morning might be crisp and cool, the afternoon will be sending you to a beach..Have a great time!!