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Disney World trips are unlike other trips you may take with your family. And packing for Disney trips is different too. For successful trips, you need to pack things for Disney World that you wouldn’t pack for other destinations. Some of these things will make your vacation easier while others will make it cheaper. Keep reading to see my best packing tips for Disney World trips.
Tip #1: Pack 2 outfits per person per day
I know it sounds like a lot, but I highly recommend packing at least 2 outfits per person per day. For small children, take more.
If you go when it’s hot, you will sweat a lot. It is refreshing to be able to take a shower and change into fresh clothes during the day.
If your trip is in the winter, the weather can be unpredictable. It may be cold one day and warm the next. So, you should pack both warm and cold weather clothes.
If you don’t want to pack so much, then plan on doing laundry during your trip.
Tip #2: Take some good walking shoes
Most people underestimate how much walking you do at Disney World. We typically walk 8-10 miles PER DAY! Once, we walked almost 15 miles in a single day.
Therefore, it is crucial to have good walking shoes. Running shoes and Crocs are both smart choices.
Leave the cute sandals at home and save the flip flops for pool time. Trust me, your feet will thank you!
It’s also a good idea to pack 2 pair of shoes for each member of the family in case your shoes get wet.
Tip #3: Don’t forget moisture wicking socks
Another important item to pack is moisture wicking socks. These will keep your feet dry during all that walking.
The drier your feet are, the less likely you are to get blisters. With moisture wicking socks and good walking shoes, you can keep blisters from ruining your trip.
Tip #4: Pack hats for the whole family
Even if you are not a “hat person,” it’s a good idea to pack a hat or two for your Disney World trip. The sun in Florida can be relentless. A hat will protect you from sunburn while keeping you cool and shading your eyes.
You can find a wide selection of fun hats at Disney World, or save yourself some money by bringing one with you.
Tip #5: Pack your rain ponchos
It rains almost every day in Florida. Sometimes, it rains a little, and sometimes a lot. You don’t want to be caught in a downpour without a poncho!
Bringing ponchos is cheaper than buying them in the parks. Plus, occasionally, the gift shops in the parks run out of ponchos. You don’t want to be the one left out in the rain!
Tip #6: Bring your swimsuits
If you are staying at a Disney resort, you should pack your swimsuit, even in the winter. All Disney pools are heated, so guests can use them year round.
For most kids, the only thing more fun than swimming in the summer is swimming in the winter! So, bring your suit and enjoy some pool time.
Tip #7: Throw in some glow sticks
When the sun goes down at Disney, the carts of glow toys come out. Kids can’t resist these light up treasures. But, they are expensive!
You can save a lot of money by packing your own glow sticks. Stores like Target and Michaels carry glow sticks all year long. You can usually find them 10 for a dollar.
Throw some in your suitcase and give them to your kids each night while in the park.
Tip #8: Don’t forget to pack an autograph book and pen
If your kids are into meeting characters, then another must-pack item is an autograph book. Like ponchos, autograph books are easy to find in the Disney gift shops. However, they are not cheap.
Consider buying a journal or other alternative autograph book at home and bring it with you instead. We use spiral bound index cards. I can get three books of index cards for less than half the cost of one Disney autograph book.
You will need a pen to get character autographs as well. Because of their outfits, it’s hard for some of the characters to hold a normal size pen. So, a large pen works best. The dollar aisles at Target and Michaels usually have oversized pens that are perfect for character autographs!
Tip #9: Bring a camera
This may sound obvious, but it’s worth saying: don’t forget to pack your camera!
Many people these days use their smart phones as cameras. While this will work at Disney World, it’s not the wisest decision. Using your phone as a camera will quickly drain your battery.
You need your phone to access the My Disney Experience app for things like dining reservations, and wait times. So, pack a camera to capture those precious memories and save your phone for other important tasks.
Tip #10: Bring along a backpack
You will need a way to carry your stuff while in the park. I recommend a lightweight backpack for this purpose. This will also give you a place to stash your hat and sunglasses while on rides or indoors.
Tip #11: Throw in some wet wipes
Wet wipes are not just for babies. They have so many uses and are lightweight and portable.
Grab a small pack for your trip. Throw them in your park bag for a quick cleanup on the go. You can also use them to wipe your face when hot and sweaty.
Tip #12: Pack some bandages
To keep minor mishaps from throwing a wrench in your park day, put some bandages in your park bag. If someone gets a minor cut, you can treat it and keep going.
Additionally, in the event you develop a blister, having bandages on hand can prevent some painful walking.
All the parks have first aid stations, but if you have some bandages with you, you won’t have to walk across the park to get one.
Tip #13: Don’t forget to bring some pain reliever
Disney World is no fun if you have a massive headache. Having some pain reliever with you can be a lifesaver.
This is another item that you can easily get at any of the First Aid Stations, but you can save yourself some time by having it with you.
Tip #14: Remember to bring some diaper rash ointment
Another unexpected item to pack for Disney World is diaper rash ointment. It can quickly treat any skin that has been rubbed raw from walking and sweating. This can save you a lot of discomfort during your trip.
Conclusion
Disney World is a unique vacation destination. Packing some unique items can make your trip more convenient and a little cheaper too. Packing glow sticks, ponchos, and an autograph book will save you some money, while bringing your own first aid kit and having the right socks and shoes will make your trip easier. These packing tips for Disney World trips are sure to make your next trip better than ever!
For planning help, see my step-by-step guide, quick tips, and best resources. Also, check out my tips for saving money on souvenirs and preparing kids for Disney.
Happy travels!
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