7 Things You Should Bring on Your Vacation
Don't forget these important items you should pack before heading to St. Augustine!
1. Your Mobile Phone with the ParkStAug App
Most parking downtown is metered and the city checks religiously, so don't get stuck with a ticket. ParkStAug enables you to pay for parking in city lots using your mobile phone. The app also offers a convenient way to extend parking meter time. You just need to register for an account using a license plate number and a credit or debit card. (ParkStAug is free on iOS or Android or through a web browser.) And, you can extend your time with the App without walking back to your car! Remember, parking is free before 8:00 a.m. and after 9:00 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays, and on Sundays before 1:00 p.m. and after 9:00 p.m. "Parking in St. Augustine" has more information for savvy travelers.
2. Rain Boots, Jacket, & Umbrella
Florida may be the Sunshine State, but that doesn't excuse us from occasional afternoon torrential downpours. And St. Augustine's ancient city grid doesn't offer the best in drainage, often leaving huge puddles on our narrow European-style streets. As long as you have rain boots and an umbrella and/or rain jacket, you can wait out the 15-minute showers and continue enjoying the majestic city. While you're at it, pack yourself some flip-flops for the beach and comfortable shoes for long strolls up and down St. George Street and the surrounding brick streets — you'll thank us later.
3. Reusable Shopping Bag
This will help consolidate your many shopping bags while downtown or at the outlets. There are 50+ boutiques in the historic district, so don't limit your shopping spree in St. Augustine by weighing yourself down with multiple bags.
4. Dog
Bring along man/woman's best friend as many places are pet-friendly. Just make sure you have a leash for Fido and don't forget to carry doggie bags and water, too.
5. Sunscreen and Hat
You may have already packed the sunscreen, but if you're with a large group, make sure you pack A LOT. Also, make sure you carry it around with you. People who burn are usually the ones who only apply one coat in the morning. It's very important to re-apply sunscreen in Florida. And while we're on the subject of sun protection, don't forget your hat too!
6. Refillable Water Bottle
Guess what — Florida is kind of hot. Especially in the summer months where temperatures average a high of between 88 and 188 degrees! Luckily, St. Augustine is equipped for warmer weather with shady spots, a breezy bayfront, and public water fountains located throughout downtown. If you want to stay hydrated on vacation, make sure to bring a water bottle that you can refill throughout the day.
7. Chairs or Blanket
These will come in handy for the many free outdoor events such as Music by the Sea and Concerts in the Plaza. These events are usually at parks and open spaces where the grass is green, but the benches are scarce. For an added benefit, consider investing in a backpack chair that's easy to tote.
