Snowbird Packing List
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Alabama’s Beaches are the perfect place for an extended winter vacation. If you plan to flock to our shores to escape the cold, we’ve compiled a list of everything you need for a comfortable stay. These tips were gathered from past snowbird travelers who’ve visited the area. Packing well means being prepared for everyday living, comfort, and community fun during your time in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan!
What to Pack for a Snowbird Trip
Clothing
Clothing
Our area boasts comfortable weather during winter, meaning you can leave your heavy coats and snow boots at home. Temperatures range from the 50s to 70s throughout December, January, February, and March. Pack casual layers like light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and light jackets in addition to your warm weather outfits like shorts and t-shirts. Activities such as biking, birding, and hiking are popular this time of year, so make sure to include clothes suited for outdoor adventures. If you plan to dine out while here, bring a few outfits for an upscale dinner at one of the fine dining restaurants. And don’t forget your swimsuits, as many lodging options offer indoor and heated pools!
Comfortable Footwear
Comfortable Footwear
Sandals and water shoes are a must when visiting the beach. Even though the water temperatures are chilly, you can still comfortably relax on the shore. Pack tennis shoes and walking shoes for outdoor activities and sports. We like to keep it casual along the Gulf Coast, footwear included. Bring comfortable shoes like sneakers or slip-ons for sightseeing, errands, and events. You’ll likely cover a lot of ground while exploring the destination!
Health & Toiletries
Health & Toiletries
Like any other trip, remember your prescriptions, vitamins, and favorite toiletries. Our area has several pharmacies and grocery stores where you can pick up these items, but if you have specialty brands you use, we suggest bringing those along. Many guests also like to get household items like heating pads, humidifiers, compression socks, and other comfort items. Your rental will provide you with all your kitchenware, towels, and bedding, but it’s best to bring items like the above along with you.
Important Documents
Important Documents
Pack your ID, insurance cards, and medical information. Be sure to have a copy of your rental agreement or booking confirmation, either printed or saved on an electronic device. This will make checking into your accommodation go smoothly. It’s also helpful to have copies of prescriptions or pharmacy info in case you need a refill while staying in Alabama.
Comfort Items from Home
Comfort Items from Home
Bring your favorite items like pillows, cozy blankets, and slippers to make your stay feel more like home. These items aren’t essential, but they will make your stay feel more relaxing and familiar.
Storage & Organization
Storage & Organization
To help maximize space, many winter visitors prefer to pack storage items like foldable bins, hanging organizers, and laundry baskets. Small items like command hooks and tension rods provide extra spaces for towels and clothing, making a big difference in smaller rentals. You can also find these items locally at nearby grocery stores.
Electronic Devices
Electronic Devices
To stay connected with friends and family back home, it’s essential to bring electronic devices like phones, laptops, tablets, and any cables or chargers you’ll need to keep them running. Portable chargers and battery backups can also be useful for those staying in campgrounds.
Apps & Streaming Services
Apps & Streaming Services
Remember to write down your login information for any subscriptions or streaming services you plan to use. Most rentals will have TVs with access to apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Having your username and password at hand will make logging into your accounts easy and allow you to watch your favorite shows and movies during your stay. If you’re staying in a campground with WIFI and don’t have access to a TV, download your favorite apps onto your laptop or tablet, so you can watch in your RV.
Entertainment & Hobbies
Entertainment & Hobbies
Use your time along our beaches to dive into your favorite hobbies. Lots of snowbirds bring books, puzzles, card games, and knitting and crafting supplies. If you play sports like pickleball or golf, bring your gear, and if you’re a birder, plan to pack your binoculars. Biking is a popular pastime thanks to the miles of trails in the area. While there are several local bike rental companies, many guests prefer to bring their own bikes. If you choose to do this, make sure to pack a bike pump and helmets. Our area is home to the largest fishing charter fleet on the Gulf Coast, and there are plenty of desirable species to target during winter. Avid anglers will want to pack their gear to take advantage of all the fishing opportunities.
Pro Tip: You don't have to be a resident to get a library card at the Orange Beach Public Library, so plan to check out books and games there during your stay!
Potluck & Social Items
Potluck & Social Items
There are so many opportunities for winter travelers to connect on Alabama’s Beaches. Many snowbird clubs and community groups host potlucks and socials throughout the winter for guests to gather. Check with your rental host to see if your accommodation has slow cookers, air fryers, reusable containers, and/or serving utensils. If not, plan to bring items like these, so you can share your favorite dishes at these events. Be sure to also pack folding or beach chairs to bring to community events, festivals, and of course, the beach! Your rental may have portable chairs for you to use, so be sure to check beforehand.
Snowbird Packing Checklist
To ensure you bring all the items you need on your Alabama’s Beaches vacation, we’ve created a packing checklist based on real advice from snowbird visitors! You can print, download, or bookmark this sheet to make packing a little easier.
Alabama's Beaches
These blogs are written by the destination experts at Alabama's Beaches. From the best restaurants and hidden gems to tips and tricks for making the most of your stay, our knowledgable team has the lowdown on our area.
