What to Pack For a Trip to Disney World
Disney World may be the most magical place in the world, but that doesn’t mean you should show up and expect nothing but rainbows and sunshine. Use our handy guide here to help you prepare for anything to make the most of your family vacation. Here’s how to pack your travel bags for a day at Disney World.
Kid’s Backpacks
One of the simplest ways to ensure that everyone has everything they might need during your trip to Disney (and to help ensure that you don’t end up carrying everything for everyone) is to pack each person in your group their own bag. Make sure the kids each have their own backpacks in which they can carry their own water bottles, snacks, electronic devices, etc.
An Extra Bag
If you plan on purchasing anything while inside Disney World, especially if you are planning on hitting up the gift shop on your way out, you may want to consider bringing an extra bag, such as a drawstring cinch bag to carry your extra knick-knacks on the way out. Alternatively, an extra bag can also be handy for toting around wet clothes after the kids go down Splash Mountain.
Comfortable Shoes
If you’ve never been before, let us help mentally prepare you: however big you think Disney World is, we promise…it’s bigger than that. Be prepared for a whole day on your feet and lots of walking. Make sure the kids have their favorite comfiest kid’s sneakers on and don’t forget to pack extra socks.
Water Bottles
Bringing water is a must. Central Florida is hot and humid most of the year, so staying hydrated is vital. However, bottled water can be expensive, especially in a large theme park. Do your part to reduce plastic waste while saving yourself a good chunk of change by bringing your own refillable water bottles. Disney World has water bottle refill stations to keep your family hydrated in the hot Florida sun all day.
Snacks
Disney World and the surrounding areas host a massive selection of restaurants, food carts, concession stands, and more. Even if you plan on having most of your meals out while on vacation, it is always a good idea to bring extra snacks for those in-between times or in case there is a significant wait at your kids’ Disney dream restaurant.
Sunscreen, Hats, and Sun Protective Gear
Protect yourself and your family from Florida’s harsh UV rays by slathering (and constantly reapplying) sunscreen lotion and wearing broad wide-rimmed hats, sunglasses, and SPF protection clothing. If you are going to the water parks or planning to ride certain water rides there, a high SPF rash guard may be called for. And don’t forget the SPF chapstick!
Layers and Rain Gear
No matter what time of year you plan on visiting, be prepared for the weather to change suddenly and without warning. Central Florida is a humid subtropical region. Even if the skies are entirely blue and the sun is shining when you leave your hotel in the morning, there is a high probability that your afternoon will be full of rolling thunderstorms and dark grey skies. Make sure you bring a parka or a lightweight rain jacket (depending on the time of year), and don’t forget to pack kid’s raincoats! Bring some extra layers or perhaps even a change of clothes.
Portable Activities
Like most popular theme parks, Disney World will have long lines to get on specific rides. Keep the little ones entertained and engaged by bringing some of their favorite portable activities, whether a small game they can play while standing in line, or simply a tablet or electronic device loaded with digital games. You can thank us later.
First-Aid Necessities
Though the park has plenty of first aid stations and can help in an emergency, you can save yourself (and the park staff) some time and trouble by bringing your own small first aid kid for minor cuts and scrapes, bug bites, or headaches. Your kit should contain at least some Band-Aids, hand sanitizer, wipes, anti-inflammatories, and antihistamines.
Other Considerations
If you have small children or kids who are sensitive to sudden and/or loud noises, bringing a few earplugs can be a game-changer, especially if you plan to stay for fireworks in the evening. Protect your phone with a waterproof pouch and if you are going in the summer, consider bringing a small insulated lunch bag full of cooling accessories such as a chilly towel, frozen wrist wraps, or even simply a few dampened and then frozen bandanas.
What you need to pack is, of course, going to vary based on your family's unique needs, the season you are visiting, and more, but we think this is a great point of reference to get you going. Stay safe and cool and have a magical time.