If there’s one thing I’ve learnt over my many trips to Disney and Universal, it’s that overpacking is a villain. And just like a villain in a Marvel movie, it can sneak up on you when you least expect it, crushing your shoulder with the weight of a bag full of “essentials” that, you’re never going to use. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered in this park bag essentials guide, filled with some top tips, hacks, and tricks to keep your park bag light, organised, and ready for the magic (minus the stress). You’ll thank us later when you’re breezing through security instead of fumbling around with a giant bag of snacks you won’t even eat.
Keep It Lightweight: Overpacking is the Villain in This Story
I get it. You think you need everything, we’ve been there, feeling like going to a theme park, shouldn’t be like an entire survival mission. We used to pack the kitchen sink… literally. Extra clothes for every possible weather scenario, backup snacks (just in case I get lost in the middle of the Magic Kingdom and can’t find any food, or what if they run out of Mickey bars!), and don’t even get me started on the first aid kit I used to carry. I’m talking everything from bandages to allergy medication to those blister cushions that, frankly, we never need on the first day of the trip.
Top Tip: Keep it simple! Only bring the essentials, think sunscreen, a portable charger, a couple of snacks (our go to are some kind of power bar), a water bottle and your phone. Extra clothes? Unless you’re planning to jump into the water on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (I wouldn’t recommend it, Disney don’t like guest doing that), you probably won’t need them. Trust me, it took us a few overly packed bags to figure that one out.
But don’t just take my word for it. In our non-successful days of overpacking, I once had a bag so full I felt like I was carrying a small child by the time I reached Space Mountain. The straps were digging into my shoulders like a medieval torture device. Not fun.
Hack: Packing Cubes or Clear Bags for Faster Security
Here’s a little hack that’s saved me more time than I can count, packing cubes or clear bags. Not only do they help keep your stuff organised, but they’ll also make a breeze going through security like you’re the VIP of theme park entrances.
I remember the first time I tried to go through security without a good packing strategy, let’s just say it was like a scene from a comedy show. There was dozens of items to pull out of the bag, making me that guy who holds up the line, while my family carried onto the Monorail. The packing cubes? Game-changer. Everything from sunscreen to snacks gets neatly packed into these little organised sections that make security a breeze. I also love how you can easily access everything without digging around. Trust me—your back (and your fellow park-goers) will thank you.
Don’t Forget the Poncho! Essential Items to Pack
There’s a flip side to also not packing the right essentials, meet that special kind of Florida magic, the one where the skies open up, the sunshine vanishes, and in less than 90 seconds, you’re soaked through like you just went on Popeye and Pluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges… twice. If you’re heading to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando, you’ve probably already planned your days to perfection. But let me be your friendly Disney ghost host for a moment and say: don’t overlook what’s in your park bag.
The Not-So-Magical Rainstorm of 2006
Before we dive into the essentials, allow me to share one of our greatest family vacation fails. Picture this: a August afternoon in Magic Kingdom. Skies looking clear, weather app calling for 100 F (37.8 C), kids all dressed up, and me smugly confident because I’d “checked the forecast.”
Suddenly, clouds rolled in faster than you can say “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” and boom—rain. Sideways rain. No ponchos. No dry socks. Just wet shorts, a Rapunzel costume soaked, water logged trainers, and the memory of my youngest crying because her dress now was heavy and rubbing.
We’ve never made that mistake again.
TOP TIP: Florida weather is about as reliable as Gaston’s humility. Always assume a storm could appear, even if it’s blue skies at breakfast.
Your Magical Must-Pack List: Essentials for Every Park Day
1. A Quality Poncho (Seriously, Don’t Skimp)
Forget the flimsy, crinkly £1 throwaways. Invest in a good quality, reusable poncho, lightweight, compact (bonus points if it comes with its own pouch), and strong enough to survive a rollercoaster. They’ve saved us more than once, and walking around in wet clothes isn’t nearly as fun as riding Big Thunder Mountain in dry ones.
No more soggy tantrums! This lightweight, waterproof kids’ poncho keeps your little one dry and happy through every Florida downpour. Reusable, packable, and made for Disney-sized adventures.
- Kid-friendly fit – roomy, comfy, and easy to pop on
- Reusable & eco-conscious – no crinkly throwaways here
- Bright, fun colours – easy to spot in the crowd
- Limited size range – best for toddlers and small kids
2. Character Signature Supplies
Character signature collecting is like a right of passage. Autograph books are classics, but why not level up?
- Autograph books: Traditional, but always magical.
- Photo mat/frame mount: Perfect for a wall-worthy keepsake.
- Themed item: Soft toys, storybooks, or even a water bottle/travel mug (yes, you can get these signed).
- Sharpies: Easier for characters to hold! We take a range of colours.
TOP TIP: Bring something meaningful for your child to get signed. One year we brought a copy of our daughter’s favourite storybook Princess collection and the Princesses all signed. It’s now her prized bedtime book!
3. Spare Socks
We learned this the hard way (see “Not-So-Magical Rainstorm”). Always pack an extra pair, especially for the kids. Even if it doesn’t rain, water rides or splash pads can turn shoes into squelch factories. (We keep these tucked away in a clear Zip Lock bag).
4. Hairbrush (Especially for the Rapunzel’s Out There)
Humidity meets long hair? Disaster. We swear by the WetBrush, a lifesaver for taming tangled tresses mid-queue.
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5. Hand Sanitiser or Anti-bac Wipes
Character meets, Mickey-shaped pretzels, ride handles, there’s a lot of touching going on. Keep those hands clean and the sniffles away. Even more important in these post pandemic times.
6. Spray Sunscreen
Quick. Easy. Kid-approved. The spray version saves time and tears, especially when they’d rather chase ducks than get lotion’d up.
7. Reusable Water Bottle
Free ice water is available at most food and drink spots. A refillable bottle keeps everyone hydrated and helps avoid the “Mum or Dad, I’m thirsty” meltdown.
8. A Hat
Simple, effective, and sunburn preventing. Plus, it hides post-water ride hair rather nicely.
Kid-Specific Park Essentials
(Because They’re Not Built for 10-Hour Days… But They’ll Try)
Having been taking my four kids since even before some of them could even walk. Here’s what we always pack for the little ones and yes, we’ve forgotten every single one of these at least once.
- Stroller fan: Florida heat can be intense. A clip-on fan = cool kid = happy parent.
- Apple AirTag (or similar): Pop one in their shoe, bag, stroller or lanyard. Just in case.
- Spray sunscreen: Worth repeating. They burn fast, and the sprays are easier and fast to apply before, they run off when something grads their attention.
- Lightweight blanket: Great for shade, naps, or keeping cosy in air-conditioned queues.
- Rain cover: Ponchos are great, but the stroller needs protection too. Nothing worse than returning to the stroller to find out a quick shower rolled past while you were waiting in line.
- Hat: Keeps them cool and sun protected.
Bubble wands or light-up Disney accessories: They’re not just fun, they can help your child stand out in a crowd at night. Plus, buying them ahead of time saves a fortune.
TOP TIP: We used to buy bubble wands in the park until we realised we could get them online before the trip for half the price. That saved our budget and our sanity.
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A Few Things I’ve Learnt (The Hard Way)
Don’t pack a huge bag, go for light and strategic. Every item should earn its spot.
Pack a small towel or flannel in a ziplock. Useful for spills, sweat, or surprise splash zones.
Portable phone charger. The My Disney Experience app drains your battery faster than you can say “Lightning Lane.” And next thing you know it’s midday and your out of juice.
TOP TIP: Test your park bag before you leave home. Walk around with it, see how it feels. One year I brought a shoulder bag that felt fine in the hotel… by noon it had mutated into a medieval torture device.
We take a Loungefly backpack now. Not only are they adorable (hello, Disney style!), but they’re also practical. These backpacks are compact but surprisingly spacious for your essentials. And the matching ears? Absolutely essential. Both make it easy to carry your stuff in style while keeping in with the Magic.
Just be warned I thought one backpack and a set of ears, now it’s turned into a collection of multiple bags with matching ears, just something else I have to budget for.
Our Essential Picks that Make Up Our Perfect Park Bag
Now, let’s get down to business. If you’re going to take my advice and pack light, you’re going to need some gear that works, so here are a few things we personally use (and highly recommend) for a well-packed, stress-free park day. These items will help you stay organised, cool, and looking like a pro while still keeping your bag light and manageable. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Funko Loungefly Backpacks & Ears
Fun, compact, practical, waterproof. Here are some of our favourite designs and styles new and old.
They might seem like a small thing, but silicone ziplock bags can seriously change the way you travel. Keep your bag neat, tidy, and, most importantly, easy to navigate. No more rummaging around for sunscreen while the family waits impatiently in line.
Cooling towel are your best friend on hot days. Pack it in your bag and feel the instant relief on those humid Florida afternoons.
You’re going to be snapping pics, checking wait times, and using your phone for everything, so a portable power bank is a must-have to keep your phone charged all day long.
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Staying Hydrated is critical all year round and it is easy to get caught out and end up paying $4 for a bottle of water.
Keeps you dry from the water rides and the elements. A good reliable one stashed in your park bag helps prevent you getting caught in the Park price trap. Even if you forget to purchase one before your trip, you have options, Amazon can be delivered to your accommodation, or places like Walmart and Target also stock these and again at a much lower cost then in the parks and often more sturdy designed.
Beat the Florida downpour with this lightweight, waterproof poncho – perfect for Disney, Universal, or any day you don’t want soggy socks. Folds small, covers big, and saves the day when the skies open up.
- Lightweight & portable – easy to carry in your backpack or stroller.
- Reusable & eco-friendly – ditch the single-use plastic.
- Full coverage with hood – keeps hair, bags, and spirit levels dry.
- Unisex, roomy fit – works over any outfit, even those Disney ears.
- Not as breathable – can get warm in Florida’s humid heat.
- Limited colour range – function over fashion.
These are great on super hot days, offering a nice gentle breeze to help keep you cool, if you are prone to feeling the heat one of these can really help. Get a light weight and rechargeable one to save on running out of power just as the sun decides to remind you your in Florida at 1pm in July.
Character Signature Supplies
This is just a selection of items that we can recommend as extra park essentials for some added memories, like signature items and budget kid friendly accessories.
Recap, Travel Light, Travel Right
So, to recap. Keep it lightweight, your back will thank you. Use silicone ziplock bags or clear bags for smooth security. Don’t forget that cooling towel for those afternoons that feel like Tatooine during a heat wave or that portable charger to help keep the kids occupied while your 5 minutes into a 90 minute wait to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. By packing the right essentials, you’ll save time, space, and most importantly, your sanity.
At the end of the day, the parks are meant to be fun, not stressful or back breaking. So next time you’re planning your day, channel your inner superhero and keep your bag light, organised, and ready for adventure. Your shoulders and your family, will thank you for it.
Final Thoughts (and Dry Feet)
Packing for Disney isn’t just about being organised, it’s about avoiding those “I told you so” moments when you’re drenched, sunburned, or buying $20 socks from the Emporium. A little planning goes a long way, and trust me, we’ve made enough mistakes so you don’t have to.
Let me know in the comments what your #1 can’t-leave-home-without-it item is! Got a soggy sock story of your own? I’d love to hear it.
And don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook and soon YouTube for more park tips, guides, and ride POVs!
3 responses
Planning ahead and having a poncho is so smart!
Thanks so much! Yes, the poncho is a must, Florida rain doesn’t send a warning, it just happens! (We’ve been caught out before). Packing one (or two) in your park bag means you’re not paying for an emergency Mickey poncho while doing the soggy-shoe walk down Main Street USA.
Love these ideas. I agree with the poncho. It’s been a while since we’ve been and we always bring way to much.