The Ultimate Florida Packing List + Healthy Food Finds
Your guide to sunshine essentials and must-try spots like Erewhon Smoothie bars
Planning a Florida trip? Between the sunshine, beaches, and vibrant food scene, you'll want to pack smart and eat smarter. This comprehensive guide covers everything from your essential Florida packing list to the best healthy cafe finds, including celebrity-loved Erewhon smoothies and local shake bars.
Essential Florida Packing List
Whether you're hitting Miami's nightlife or Orlando's theme parks, these packing essentials will keep you prepared:
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics (linen, cotton)
- Swimsuits (pack 2-3 for humidity)
- Sun-protective clothing (UPF 50+ recommended)
- Comfortable walking sandals
- Light jacket for evening breezes
Sun Protection
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Polarized sunglasses
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Aloe vera gel (just in case)
Florida's Healthy Food Scene
Florida's culinary scene goes beyond oranges and key lime pie. Discover these healthy vibes food spots:
1. Erewhon Smoothie Hotspots
While Erewhon is California-based, Florida has developed its own wellness culture with similar smoothie menu offerings at:
- The Smoothie Bar (Miami) - Try their "Florida Man" with acai, mango, and local honey
- Pure Life Organic Cafe (Tampa) - Their frozen fruit smoothies feature tropical Florida fruits
- Green Bar & Kitchen (Fort Lauderdale) - Whole foods diet approach with cold-pressed juices
2. Must-Try Shake Bars
Florida's fitness culture means excellent shake bars for post-beach workouts:
- Protein Bar Cafe (Orlando) - Near theme parks with meal replacement options
- Shake Shack Healthy (Miami Beach) - Not to be confused with the burger chain
- Smoothie King (Statewide) - Their "Gladiator" series packs 30g protein
Building Your Perfect Florida Smoothie
When visiting Florida healthy cafes, customize your frozen fruit smoothie with these local ingredients:
Base Options
- Coconut water (Florida Coconuts brand)
- Fresh-squeezed orange juice
- Almond milk (many cafes make in-house)
Local Superfood Add-ins
- Mango (grown in South Florida)
- Pitaya (dragon fruit)
- Key lime (for tartness)
- Raw local honey
Protein Boosters
- Collagen peptides
- Plant-based protein powders
- Greek yogurt (try local brands like Dakin Dairy)
Whole Foods Diet Approach for Travel
Maintaining a whole foods diet while traveling is easier with these Florida tips:
Farmer's Markets to Visit
- Yellow Green Farmers Market (Hollywood, FL)
- Orlando Farmers Market
- St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market
Grocery Stores with Healthy Options
- Publix GreenWise Markets
- Whole Foods (multiple locations)
- Trader Joe's (great for travel snacks)
Easy Whole Food Travel Snacks
- Individual guacamole cups with veggie sticks
- Pre-cut Florida fruit at most convenience stores
- Single-serve nut butter packets
5-Day Sample Florida Eating Plan
Balance indulgence with nutrition using this healthy vibes approach:
Day 1: Miami Arrival
- Breakfast: Acai bowl at a South Beach healthy cafe
- Lunch: Cuban salad (ask for dressing on side)
- Snack: Cold-pressed juice from a shake bar
- Dinner: Grilled seafood with plantains
Day 2: Theme Park Day
- Breakfast: Protein-packed frozen fruit smoothie
- Lunch: Turkey leg (shared) with side salad
- Snack: Dole Whip (it's dairy-free!)
- Dinner: Build-your-own bowl at a fast-casual spot
(Continue with Days 3-5 with similar structure...)
Packing for Different Florida Regions
Tailor your Florida packing list based on destination:
South Florida (Miami, Keys)
- Upscale resort wear
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- Spanish phrasebook
Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa)
- Comfortable theme park shoes
- Portable phone charger
- Light poncho (for afternoon showers)
North Florida (Jacksonville, Panhandle)
- Warmer layers for cooler evenings
- Golf attire if visiting courses
- Binoculars for nature watching
With this ultimate Florida packing list and guide to the state's best healthy cafes and shake bars, you're ready to enjoy the Sunshine State while maintaining your wellness routine. Whether you're sipping an Erewhon smoothie dupe or exploring local frozen fruit smoothie spots, Florida offers endless options for healthy vibes on the go!
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