February isn't the coldest month in Disney World -- that title belongs to January -- but it's close. The mean temperature is between 60 and 63 degrees Fahrenheit, according to weather.com, with average highs reaching only the mid-70s. This month is also relatively dry, so you might not see any of the afternoon showers that are common during summer months. Disney World can be muggy, even in February, but with the sun setting by 6:30 each night, you might find that the last several hours of each day are chilly.
You'll take plenty of photos to document your vacation, but planning your wardrobe based on what will look best is unwise. Because so much of your day will be spent walking around outdoors and sitting in sometimes uncomfortable ride cars, focus on comfort and weather appropriateness. In February, you may find that either pants or shorts are suitable. Capris or pants that zip off into shorts may be a comfortable medium. Pick fabrics that don't wrinkle and waistbands that are neither too loose nor too tight. Cotton or lightweight polyester blends will probably work. On top, wear T-shirts or polo shirts. Long-sleeved shirts are ideal for February because you can push down the sleeves at the beginning and end of the day and push them up midday. A woman should avoid white or very pale shirts to avoid a see-through situation on water rides like Splash Mountain.
One Disney World truth that doesn't change, no matter the season, is this: you're going to need comfortable, worn-in walking shoes. Pack the sneakers you'd wear to the gym, lightweight hiking shoes or sturdy sandals with arch support and straps that prevent the foot from slipping out. Wear thin socks designed for athletics. Because you'll be in tight crowds under hot sun, leave bulky layering pieces at home, but do bring a lightweight jacket or hooded sweatshirt with you on a trip in February. Even in a mob of fellow parade-watchers, you'll be grateful for something warm after dark, especially since even indoor rides are air-conditioned or cool. If your coat doesn't have a hood, stuff a plastic poncho into your bag in case of rain.
If you're planning to venture beyond Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom parks, your clothing needs might change. To visit one of Disney's water parks, you'll need an appropriate bathing suit (no thongs or skimpy suits) and a warm cover-up, like a large T-shirt or sundress. Bring sandals with a tread or grip on the soles. To spend time wandering Downtown Disney, a collection of shops and restaurants, you'll be comfortable in your daytime clothes, but if you crave an upscale dinner or trip to a nightclub, bring dress pants and a button-down shirt or a cocktail dress. Whatever you pack, consider whether it will pass Disney's requirements of appropriateness. You can be turned away for wearing clothing with offensive slogans or images, overly ripped clothing or anything that resembles a Disney character costume. Only kids are allowed into parks in costume.
