Packing for a Disney theme park trip? Here's what our crew suggests from LOTS of experience.

paigelandrum
Sep 30
3 min read

Packing for Walt Disney World or Disneyland can be a lot, especially when you’re juggling your own bags, your kids’ stuff, and trying not to forget anything. Whether it’s your first visit or your twentieth, this guide will help you pack smarter, stay organized, and avoid the last-

minute scramble. In addition to packing tips, our A Mouse and A Beach advisors provide essential travel planning tips and detailed itineraries. Get started on your next magical vacation here.

Park Bag Basics: What You’ll Want Every Day

Here’s a packing list for what to keep in your bag or stroller so you’re ready for whatever the day brings:

Small backpack or crossbody: Something lightweight and hands-free that you can put valuables in and bring with you on rides. Unlike other theme parks, you keep your items with you on majority of the rides or there will be a locker provided.
MagicBands and chargers if you have MB+: If you are using these during your trip, make sure to locate these and pack in your carry on or purse.
Refillable water bottles: Staying hydrated is key and you can get tap water in lots of places around the parks. Also consider bringing electrolytes, especially if visiting in the summer months.
Snacks: Disney allows you to bring food into the parks (just no glass), so pack granola bars, crackers, fruit pouches, or anything that will keep you and the kids going. We also recommend lollipops or a special treat to make line waiting easier.
Phone charger or power bank: You’ll need your phone for mobile orders, park maps, and lightning lanes, so you’ll want to keep it charged.
Wipes and hand sanitizer: For quick cleanup after touching every handrail in sight.
Rain ponchos or a light jacket: Florida weather is unpredictable and can shift quickly.
Sunscreen and hats: Very important in the summer heat.
Cooling towel or portable fan: Optional, but great during warmer months.
Autograph book and/or Sharpie: For all of the character meet-and-greets.

Clothing Essentials

Comfort always wins at Disney. Here’s what to bring for park days:

Comfortable walking shoes: Break them in ahead of time. We also recommend two plus pairs per person as blisters can form or rain showers can happen unexpectedly.
Breathable clothes: Avoid heavy fabrics or dark colors in warmer months.
Swimsuits: For hotel pool time or the water park.
Light sweatshirt or jacket: For cooler mornings, evenings, or indoor rides or dining with extra AC.
Extra outfits: In case of accidents, spills, or unexpected water play.

Optional, But Fun: Disney Bounding

If you’ve never heard of Disney Bounding, it’s essentially wearing everyday clothes inspired by Disney characters. These aren’t costumes, just subtle nods through color or accessories.

Some simple ideas:

Minnie Mouse: Red skirt or top, black tank, bow headband
Ariel: Green shorts, purple top, shell earrings
Woody: Yellow flannel, denim, red bandana

It’s an easy way to feel festive and get some great photos, especially if you’re not into full-on matching family shirts.

What to Pack for the Hotel

Swimsuits, goggles, flip flops, sunscreen: If spending time at the pool, these are great to have handy. Life jackets and pool towels will be available at the pool deck.
Sound machine or other necessary sleep items
Travel-size laundry and dish detergents
Charging cables for everyone’s device
In room snacks or food options that don't require refrigeration. If staying in a DVC option with a fridge, bringing food from home or having it delivered to your resort is great since you can use the large fridge.
Cooler for colder items: If you want to keep more food in your standard hotel room than a regular beverage cooler can hold.

Disney will provide pack-n-plays and bed rails, so no need to pack those! You can call when you arrive to your room and they will bring them to you.

A Few Extras That Help

Packing cubes: Great for organizing outfits by day or person.
Stroller tag or decoration: Helps you find yours quickly in a sea of black strollers in the parking areas.
First aid kit: Band-aids, ibuprofen, motion sickness meds, etc.
Stroller covers: Most stroller parking is outside, this protects your stroller from getting soaked during rain showers.

Ready to book your next trip?

If you've been eyeing a trip to Walt Disney World, let us help you with the hard stuff, and you can simply pack your suitcase! Connect with a travel advisor here.