Spending all this time talking about planning a Disney trip has made me realize that we sometimes forget about all the stuff that we should (and shouldn’t) drag around with us while in the parks. Deciding what goes in your Disney bag is important!
Let’s keep things simple with a “What’s in the Bag” for when you’re planning a single day in the parks at Walt Disney World.
MAGIC BANDS
This is a given, as all of your information is connected to your Magic Bands! Don’t leave these behind as everyone in your party will need them at all times (FastPass+ reservations, etc). Take a photo of the back of the MBs just in case something happens with them.
PHOTO ID
Do you want an adult beverage in the parks? Well, you’ll need to prove that you’re over 21. It’s also a great backup just in case the biometric system goes down at the turnstiles.
EXTRA SHIRT
While you’re re-applying deodorant, it may be worth switching up your shirt too. Not just because it’s probably soaked with sweat…but having different shirts in your PhotoPass images is actually a great idea! May we suggest a Disney inspired design?
The nice thing with having an extra shirt is that you are always dry! The number of wardrobe changes that I’ve done in the Pirates of the Caribbean washrooms – well that wouldn’t shock anyone.
Article Continues Below
SMART PHONE
Ok, so this is an easy one. With everything on your phone, it’s easy to be prepared. Don’t leave it behind in the hotel room, as you can turn off data (if you’re traveling from out of the USA) and still be able to use the Disney Wi-Fi in the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs.
EXTERNAL BATTERY (FUEL RODS)
Remember how I mentioned that you can use Wi-Fi in the parks? Well, that kinda drains your battery…so make sure that you have a system. We’re HUGE fans of FuelRods, so do a little research on them out before your trip! If you want to arrive prepared we recommend picking up this external battery pack.
Article Continues Below
SUNSCREEN
Remember, you’re in Florida. Make sure it’s waterproof and re-apply twice a day (at least)…because sunburns are annoying! I have been there, you do not want to be the person with the glowing red skin that can’t sit, walk or move wihtout being in pain. Just in case you may want to throw some aloe in your suitcase. It will help your sunburns heal faster and relieve some of that pain.
CHAPSTICK / LIP BALM
Florida = sun burns. Protect your lips and you’ll be fine! This also goes into the next item…
WATER BOTTLE (BRING IT EMPTY)
Stay hydrated at all times. If you bring along an empty water bottle, you can fill up throughout the day at Quick Service locations and just a fun note…Starbucks gives you free water if you go in and ask for it. We’re also a HUGE fan of Swell Water Bottles, as they keep drinks cold for 24 hours!
**Bonus Tip** Bring drink crystals (like lemonade or iced tea) to make regular water a little more exciting!
SUNGLASSES
It’s Florida…so even when the sun isn’t directly on you…you’re still dealing with glare. Bring cheap ones, as the first time you bring expensive ones…you’ll leave them in the carry-on net on Expedition Everest (true story!)
Related Link – Sunglasses on Amazon
Article Continues Below
PONCHOS
This is a must! It’ll rain in Florida…not maybe…not kinda…it will rain and you will get wet. Plan for it. It’ll happen. Go to the dollar store and get a poncho per person per three/four days. If you’re there for a week, get two per person and throw one out half way through your trip.
A poncho in the park will run you about $13/adult…so just save that money for a couple of Dole Whips and you’ll be happy:)
Related Link – Ponchos on Amazon
ZIPLOCK BAGS
Put a box in your luggage. They’re great for keeping things dry, especially when you want to go on Splash Mountain and don’t want to get your phone wet. Remember…it gets wet in Florida and you really don’t want your wallet to be soaked!
Article Continues Below
MINI FIRST AID KIT (BANDAIDS, TYLENOL, MEDICAL TAPE)
Great for headaches, sore feet and other things that may come up. We had to do this because our shoes got SOAKED during a rainstorm on the first day of our trip and I got a serious blister that I wasn’t at all expecting! Huge points for prep!
PINS
Four Ziplock bags to sort your pins: Two bags to bring with you (traders and already traded) and Two bags for the hotel (traders and already traded) Easy:)
Related Article – How to Pin Trade
AUTOGRAPH BOOK & SHARPIE
Even if you don’t plan on meeting characters, it’s always fun to have something for spontaneous meetings with Mickey! Why a sharpie? Because it looks GREAT!
Related Article – Disney Autograph Tips
SNACKS (GRANOLA BARS)
Even if you’re on the Disney Dining Plan, you’re gonna feel a little snack-ish sometimes. We’re a huge fan of ordering a couple snacks from Walmart.com and have them shipped and ready for your arrival…but anything to keep your energy up is incredibly important.
Related Article – Best Snacks for a Disney Day
DEODORANT
Remember that it’s Florida…and we all get a little sweaty. Keep your hygiene on top of your mind as you’re walking through the summer heat in the Animal Kingdom and re-apply mid-day!
Article Continues Below
WALLET (AND NO CANADIAN COINS)
Money for tips & Dole Whips, Identification and a card that you may want to create with important information if your phone dies.
Oh, and coins…don’t mix up your currencies. Disney Cast Members are trained, but even they can’t resist giving a little laugh at Canadian “monopoly” money;)
Anything else that you would put in your Disney bag? Let me know and I’ll add it to the list!
