Sunburn and Dehydration and Rain Oh My!

Picture if you will. You're at one of Florida's most famous national parks the Everglades and as you walk the many trails you enjoy the vast biodiversity of flair and fauna. Then bam! sun burn, bugs and rain decide to say hi. Florida can be a harsh place for someone who comes from a place where even though the weather is unpredictable, you're not feeling like you're going to melt or burn to death (New Jersey). Florida is known for having a hot and humid climate where it can rain almost everyday. So it is important to make sure you have packed the right stuff so you're not going to be miserable the entire trip.

1. Bring a rain jacket!!

Do not do what yours truly did and forget to bring your rain jacket. There will be times where it might be a light drizzle. Not bad right? But that can quickly turn into a down pour and if you aren't too keen on getting wet a rain jacket might be the one for you! The moment we entered the national park, mother nature decided to welcome us with a nice shower but thankfully it would come and go.

2.Sunscreen...it will be your best friend.

Know we know you want to get that nice tan but is sunburn/sun poisoning really worth it??? I can't stress enough that the number one thing you need to bring is sunscreen as the bright sun can pack a mean punch. I brought a small tube of reef safe sunscreen and I can say I have survived!

3. Sneakers

I'm warning you now that you will be walking a bit at the everglades. Although there are benches and places to sit and enjoy the scenery, it is best to wear something comfortable and that you are ok with getting wet as there is so much activity going on!

4. Bug spray

You know your not apart of nature without the bugs we all know and love that love to bite. Bug spray can come in quite handy. 

5. Water

Lets be real. It going to be hot and unless your some type of epiphyte that can draw moisture from the air, bring a water bottle. preferably a reusable one cause we already have so much plastic in the world. With the amount of walking and the heat and humidity you need to make sure you're hydrated.

6. Hat and Sunglasses

The last thing you want are eyes that hurt from squinting and a cooked head. Whenever I go out and it is sunny I always bring my sunglasses and especially on this trip I made sure I had sunglasses and a hat to make sure I was protected. You can use a ball cap or a fisherman hat as long as you are covered you set.

Once you have what you need you are all set on an adventure of a life time! As someone who has seen the everglades on TV and in books to finally seeing this beautiful ecosystem in person was truly an honor!

For more information about the everglades and what to bring visit the links below!

The Everglades

Basic tips and info when visiting the everglades