When it comes to planning a Disney vacation, the excitement often leads us to overpack or bring things we think will enhance our experience. However, not all of these purchases prove to be necessary. In fact, there are several items that often go unused throughout the trip. To help you save money and space in your luggage, here are seven things you might consider leaving at home the next time you visit the Mouse.
Ponchos
Why We Buy Them
Florida weather is notoriously unpredictable, and many people choose to buy ponchos to prepare for sudden showers.
Why They Go Unused
Disney parks offer plenty of indoor attractions and shops where you can take shelter from the rain. Additionally, ponchos can be bulky and take up valuable space in your bag. We usually bring a rain jacket that can fold up fairly small, that way we can use it as a jacket if we get cold. Whatever you do, do not buy ponchos from Disney – they’re way too expensive for something you’ll only use once.
What You Should Bring Instead
Bring a good waterproof jacket that can be rolled up when not in use, but can also give you a little warmth when the sun goes down. A recent favourite has been the Arc’teryx Squamish Hoody – as it’s lightweight and can be stashed in the backpack without really worrying.
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Bandaids
Why We Buy Them
We anticipate blisters from all the walking around the park and think a stash of bandaids will come in handy.
Why They Go Unused
Disney offers first aid stations that are well-stocked with bandaids and other basic medical supplies. Unless you have special bandaid needs, you can rely on these facilities.
What You Should Bring Instead
Bring specialty bandaids – like ones designed for blisters. You can grab the normal ones when needed, but those special ones with added benefits will definitely be worth the space in the suitcase!
Sunglasses
Why We Buy Them
The Sunshine State should require sunglasses, right?
Why They Go Unused
Since there are so many stores, rides, and indoor attractions, you’ll end up putting them on just to take them off again. Moreover, unless you’re keeping them on a string around your neck, they’re just another item to keep track of throughout the day.
What You Should Bring Instead
Go to the dollar store and buy a cheap pair that you don’t feel attached to. The real win for sun care is to make sure that you’re covered from the insane heat and glaring mid-day sun.
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2nd Pair of Shoes
Why We Buy Them
The idea is to have a second pair if your usual pair gets wet or uncomfortable.
Why They Go Unused
Switching shoes can be more of a hassle than it’s worth, and one comfortable, weather-appropriate pair is usually enough.
What You Should Bring Instead
Depending on when you’re going you might find that Crocs or Vessis are the way to go, as they’re water-proof and able to dry off quickly in case of a surprise Florida rain storm.
Disney Shirts
Why We Buy Them
You might be so caught up in preparing for Disney that you want to buy a bunch of Disney shirts in order to “fit in” when you’re there.
Why They Go Unused
Once you’re there, you’re going to find a lot of new Disney Parks exclusive shirts that you’ll want more (as souvenirs or because EVERYONE ELSE is wearing them) than the ones you brought.
What You Should Bring Instead
Bring basics and then upgrade to the Disney shirts when you find one that works for your personality.
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Extra Cables
Why We Buy Them
We worry about running out of battery on our devices and everything uses different charge cables.
Why They Go Unused
Most people find that one set of charging cables is enough, especially with the availability of Fuel Rod stations around the parks.
What You Should Bring Instead
Bring one cable with extra dongles if you have to – OR if you really want to save space, then look for a charging station that you can Amazon to your hotel and not waste space.
Pin Trading
Why We Buy Them
Pin trading figures seems like a fun trading activity, with a mix of exploration and excitement.
Why They Go Unused
Most guests find that they’re too busy enjoying the parks to focus on trading pins, and they end up being more of a collector’s item than an interactive experience. In our recent trips, the pins that are available on pin boards are generally the same ones and there aren’t a lot of cool finds.
Conclusion
The kitchen sink is an ice cream sundae, not something you need to pack when coming to Disney. By cutting out these seven commonly unused items, you can save money and space, making your trip all the more enjoyable (and making more room to buy things when you’re there!).
So before you start packing for your next Disney adventure, remember that less is often more!
