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How to Pack for Disney

by Shannon Harris

Disney is more fun when you have all your supplies from day one. It’s easy to remember items like shoes, but little objects like lip balm can easily be forgotten. And what about the items you don’t even realize you need or want yet?! From the absolute necessities to the because-they’re-fun extras, here’s how to pack for Disney:

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1. Travel Goodies.

Travel goodies help you have the best possible experience traveling to the parks and coming home. Noise-cancelling headphones are an air travel game-changer. Earplugs work, too. Crying baby beside you? No problem. Squawking parrots? Whatever. Kids kicking your seat? Actually, we can’t help with that. We can, however, recommend adding identifying keychains or scarves to make sure your luggage doesn’t get mixed up with someone else’s. Trackable tiles (Apple AirTags, Galaxy SmartTags) in your bags add another layer of security.

2. Disney Gear

Start with a backpack, waterproof bag, or Fanny pack to store your Disney-themed everything. Loungefly backpacks are adorably irresistible. Fanny packs are convenient, as are pockets if you have enough space. Don’t forget your Disney pins lanyard! If you plan to watch a parade, do you have your mat? What about autograph books with extra-think pens? All of these items are more affordable online than at the parks, but for countless guests, shopping in person is part of the experience. Whatever you do… don’t forget your ears!

Pro Tips:

  • Bag size limit: 24in x 15in x 18in
  • Place an emergency contact list in your bag or fanny pack.

3. Phone Accessories

Of course you need a standard charger, but do you have a portable power bank for the park? Phone activities are an excellent way to pass time in line, enjoying Disney trivia and playing games, but there’s a chance your phone will run out of battery before the day is done. There’s more: A waterproof phone case can help keep your belongings intact on water rides. Use the case or a Ziploc, keep it in a fanny pack, and don a poncho for extra security and peace of mind.

4. Food and Water

With your own drinks and snacks, you’ll be able to stay full and hydrated throughout the day. A large number of Disney guests bring filtering water bottles or simply purchase bottled water, as California and Florida water taste distinct. Guests may bring personal coolers (24in x 15in x 18in max) into the parks, but are required to purchase lockers for any larger than “6-pack size.” Dry ice and loose ice aren’t allowed. Solid cooler packs are the way to go.

Pro Tip: You can InstaCart groceries directly to your hotel. Inside the parks, food and drinks may not have strong odors or come in glass containers, except baby food jars. Items that require heat or refrigeration are not allowed. Drinks must be sealed upon entry, and no age 18+ products, of course. Still planning to bring your own snacks? Consider:

  • Juice packs
  • Non-alcoholic canned beverages
  • Fruit (fresh, fruit, gummies, cups)
  • Crackers (Goldfish, Cheez-Its)
  • Peanut butter sandwiches
  • Popped popcorn
  • Granola bars
  • Beef jerky
  • Pop Tarts
  • Trail mix
  • Cookies
  • Pretzels
  • Chips
  • Nuts
  1. Clothes and Weather Protection

As you pack for Disney, remember the basics. Pajamas. Socks. Underpants. Extra socks and underpants. Prepare for sun and rain (and humidity in Florida, where moisture-wicking dri-fit underwear are your best friend). You might need:

  • Bathing suits, trunks, towels
  • Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
  • Ride wear, dinner outfits, PJs, extra clothes
  • Jackets, scarves, gloves, umbrellas, ponchos
  • Walking shoes, flip flops for wet rides
  • Plastic bags for wet/soiled clothes

6. Cooling Supplies

It takes more than proper hydration to stay cool at Disney parks. Cooling supplies like personal fans (including stroller fans for the little ones) and Chilly Pads can bring your temperature down and make your whole experience more comfortable. Frogg Toggs chilly pads stay cool for hours and protect your neck from the sun.

Pro Tip: While you’re chillin’ in line, we recommend keeping games or books on-hand to pass the time

7. Hygiene Basics

  • Deodorant
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste
  • Medicine, vitamins
  • Mini first-aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Bug repellant
  • Wet Wipes
  • Aloe vera
  • Tide pen

8. Daily Itineraries

Disney’s Genie (on the app) can build you an itinerary for free. You’ll need to work dining reservations into your schedule and list your top attraction choices. And what about Lightning Lane passes you might have in your pocket? Plan to hit popular rides—especially ones without Lightning Lanes—at opening. Closing hours are also an advisable time to enjoy shorter lines. The best part? As long as you’re in line one minute before the park closes, you’ll get to ride. Remember, you can only use each Lightning Lane once per ride, per day.

9. Admission: Park tickets and Magic Bands

For the smoothest possible experience, link park admission tickets and Magic Bands to your My Disney Experience account on the app. You can also use physical or eTickets–though unlike e-tickets, Magic Bands won’t ever give you wi-fi issues. Wear yours, and simply lift your wrist and tap in for entry. You can also use connected Magic Bands to access your Disney Resort room and make purchases at the parks. And that’s how to pack for Disney!