Whether I’m headed specifically to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal, or another theme park, I just pack differently! There are some items that you’ll want to be sure to grab ahead of time, and some that you might already have at home, but they’re all sure to save your trip. Read on to discover all my theme park packing tips!
A right-sized bag to carry all day
While in a Disney theme park, I love a good Loungefly backpack–I’ll admit I have more of those than I have people in my family–but there are other great options, too, like this one I’ve used many times. The important thing is that it fits the essentials you might need while not being too heavy. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen families fighting over whose turn it is to wear that big backpack chock full of everyone’s gear. Better to let everyone carry their own bag with their own stuff! When I’m visiting Universal I prefer a runner’s waist pack, which I can take on almost every ride but fits my phone, a credit card, and my park ticket.
Ponchos
I haven’t worn an actual poncho since the 80s, but when it rains you can bet I’m whipping out my waterproof poncho! I like the emergency ones for lightweight packability, but if I’m visiting a theme park during a rainy time, I often choose a more heavy-duty version that I can re-fold and re-use multiple times in the same day. Some people swear by these shoe covers to waterproof their sneakers, and there have been a few times I wished I had them! If you’re bringing a stroller, be sure to buy an extra heavy-duty poncho or a stroller cover for it.
Personal fan
I’m not someone who does great in the heat, so I have lots of ways to try to cool myself down in the Florida summers. I love this fan because I can adjust the angle to hit my face just right. I also use this cooling towel…the others I’ve tried don’t work well at all but I highly recommend this one!
Blister-proof socks
There’s nothing worse than a blister on your theme park vacation! Every step can be agony. I love these socks, because the two-layer construction means it’s basically impossible to get a blister. I buy one to wear and one to wash; they dry quickly enough that I can wash them in the sink and they’ll be ready to wear in 24 hours. However, I still carry moleskin with me; you can put this on skin or on the inside of a shoe to keep hot spots from turning into blisters. Finally, if a blister does happen, a regular bandage isn’t going to do the trick with the amount of walking a theme park vacation requires, so I make sure I have some of these hydrocolloid bandages on hand!
Back-up battery
The apps for theme parks are really helpful; you can get directions, find and order food, get wait times for attractions, and sometimes even hold your place in line! But all of that app usage drains your phone’s battery, so you’ll want a back up to stay charged. I love a wireless charger; it attaches by magnet and means I don’t have to carry a charging cord. But if you prefer or need a corded battery, we love this one because it charges quickly and carries a lot of charge for the size and weight.
Sweat control
OK, it may be a bit too much information…but I end up a sweaty mess in the heat and humidity, and I pack extra products to help me deal with it. I like this cream to avoid chafing, this for my forehead and scalp, and this for breasts and skin folds.
Sun protection
You’ll want to be sure to bring lots of sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and lip balm with sunscreen in it. Even though you may not be outside all day, having a sunburn can really put a damper on your vacation!
I hope this list of theme park packing tips helps you pack well for your trip. If you purchase anything through the links provided, I may receive a commission. Ready to plan your theme park vacation? Schedule a 15-minute call to get started!