They say, "If you don't like Texas weather, wait five minutes. It will change." Travelers often experience rapidly changing weather conditions from quick thunderstorms in the spring to northers, which drop temperatures from balmy to bitter in less than an hour.
Unless planning a mid-summer visit, a layered wardrobe serves you best. While you might not give a long-sleeved shirt a second glance in July, you'll regret not packing shorts for that 75-degree afternoon in November or February. Travel-size rain gear also comes in handy, especially in hot summer months when storms can break droughts suddenly in late afternoon.
Texans seldom lack sunshine---at least for long periods of time. While a huge draw, especially when northern neighbors fight snowdrifts, the Texas sun requires vigilant sun protection across seasons. Sunscreens shield travelers throughout the year. Waterproof brands benefit not only those on the beaches and lakes but also anyone participating in outdoor activities. Visitors also discover the logic in those large cowboy hats after a few days dodging the strong sun. While Stetsons aren't required, any type of hat provides a bit of comfort in midday sun.
They buzz, they bite and they can make an irritating and uncomfortable evening. Texas holds the distinction as home to the most mosquito species in North America, according to the Texas Fish & Game website. Mild South Texas winters also contribute to a steady population. Even in desert towns such as El Paso, traveling close to the Rio Grande River or after a rain shower increases your chance of encountering a buzzing swarm. Keeping insect repellent handy, especially during the active summer dusk period, can keep bites to a minimum.
There is no overstating that Texas holds miles of roads to explore. Before you strap the children in the back seat to cross the wide-open spaces, take note of destination mileage. Drivers can easily travel more than 800 miles without leaving the state. A drive from Amarillo in the north to South Padre Islands spans about 14 hours---without breaks. Few travel to that extreme, but long distances remain between many Texas cities. Make certain not only to prepare your vehicle but also your family for long-distance travel with games or toys to keep younger travelers busy and frequent stops to keep adults content.
You can see Palo Duro Canyon, hear Austin's blues guitars, but to truly experience Texas, you have to taste it. The influence of Mexican, German, cowboy cooking and many other cuisines tempt even the strongest willpower across the Lone Star State. While the medical community debates whether spicy food---extremely prevalent in Texas cooking---aggravates heartburn, other triggers such as black pepper, fried foods, fatty meats, mustards, tomato and vinegar populate Texas menus. Before you follow a brisket, sausage, bean and potato salad lunch with dinner of cheese and onion enchiladas, tacos and a Lone Star beer, you might prepare your stomach with some antacid medication.
