6 Ways To Have a Terrible Gulf Coast Summer Vacation

In the past, I have posted numerous ways to have a great vacation to the Gulf Coast, but some travelers seem to find a way to spoil their vacations some way or another. Avoid any of these below to insure you have a great vacation.

1) Don't wear sunscreen (or not enough) - People underestimate the power of the Florida sun and the reflectiveness of the white sandy beaches. If you have light skin, YOU WILL get burnt and it could ruin your vacation before it even starts.

2) Eat at chain restaurants - If you come to visit and spend your evenings at TGI Fridays or Chilis, you might as well have stayed home. The Gulf Coast has all sorts of local restaurants with reasonable pricing. Visit TripAdvisor.com for some reviews and recommendations or maybe ask the front desk for their favorite.

3) Book a hotel far away from the city - The traffic on the Gulf Coast in the Summer is bumper to bumper and some of you will find that a little extra $$$ for the hotel room could have improved the efficiency of driving to and from the beaches and attractions. It's true that the further you are away from the city center, the lodging prices are typically much less, but is it worth the additional 5-6 hours of driving you will do?

4) Book your tours and excursions last minute - Making arrangements ahead of time will not only save you money, but it will insure you have a seat for the time that works best for your schedule. The Summer season means sell outs happen OFTEN. Before you arrive, make sure you book the tours that are top on your list. Start booking your attraction now on TripShock. 

5) Packing the wrong attire - Keep in mind that you are traveling to the SOUTH. Bring light clothes and maybe a sweater just in case it gets chilly at night. Jeans and heavy shirts are just not going to cut it and you'll be miserable within minutes of walking outside. The humidity can be brutal and usually underestimated. It's always good to check the weather forecast before arrival.

6) Bring Electronics To The Beach - If you're wanting to bring a music player or smart phone to the beach, I'd think twice. All it takes is one drop in the water or sand and you'll be wishing you kept it in the car. I've also had situations where the sand gets up and under the cell phone case and erodes the plastic exterior.