Since the wet season months from May to October in Florida can mean soggy ground conditions and plenty of humidity, it's important to bring a tent that has a waterproof floor and that allows for plenty of air circulation. Look for a tent that has multiple mesh windows with zippered closures. When it comes to the right kind of sleeping bags to pack, summer sleeping bags are the best option for Florida. Summer sleeping bags are lightweight and have full-length zippers, which allow them to be opened up for ventilation purposes.
Bring along a cooler to keep perishable food items and beverages cold. You may also want to bring a bungee cord strap to wrap around the cooler to keep raccoons from investigating the contents. Pack a camp stove, propane, charcoal, spatula, skillet, pots, pocketknife, matches, trash bags, plastic silverware, tin foil and firewood. Stainless steel camping dishes such as cups, bowls and plates are handy to have along since they can hold either hot or cold food and beverages.
Pack lightweight cotton clothing that can be layered in the evenings or on chilly mornings. In order to be prepared for both rain and shine, don't forget a rain jacket and a hat with a brim to keep the sun off of your face. Take along an extra pair of hiking boots or tennis shoes in case one pair gets wet. A backpack, earplugs, soap, shampoo, brush or comb, toothbrush and toothpaste are other personal care necessities you'll want to have along.
You'll want to bring a battery-powered flashlight for navigating around the campsite at night. During the day, you'll need an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. Insect repellent is important since the bugs can be particularly problematic during the rainy summer months. Be sure to bring any necessary medications, and a first aid kit that includes gauze pads, tweezers, gloves, scissors, roller bandages, antibiotic ointment, a cold compress, oral thermometer, antiseptic wipe packets, adhesive cloth tape, adhesive bandages, triangular bandages, aspirin, a breathing barrier, hydrocortisone ointment and first aid instruction booklet.
