The Ultimate Disney Packing List – What to Bring to Disney

The Ultimate Disney Packing List – What to Bring to Disney

The Ultimate Disney Packing List – What to Bring to Disney

This article is your complete guide to knowing what to pack for Disney World! This Disney World packing list is not an all-or-nothing list. There is nothing more anxiety-inducing than that feeling of forgetting something. Our list aims to help you have a clear mind as you prepare for your next Disney World vacation. Our comprehensive list covers all essentials and park-specific needs. Whether it’s your first visit to Disney World or a seasoned park-goer, our guide is your ultimate packing list to kick off your magical journey!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World check out our Disney Crowd calendar!

 Disney World Crowd Calendar

What to Pack for Disney World 2024

Our Disney World packing guide meticulously addresses every aspect of your visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth. We made sure you’re prepared for Florida’s unpredictable weather and unique climate. When creating our packing list, we considered essentials for your suitcase, park bag, and even your Disney World stroller. Feel free to save, print, and use our What to Pack for Disney guide as much as you like! While our suggestions aim to enhance your experience, remember they’re just that – suggestions. Feel free to adapt our lists to fit your family’s needs and preferences on what to pack for Disney.

Disney World Packing Tips

• Be prepared for the weather! – Many Disney guests underestimate how much it rains in Florida and how quickly it can get really wet really quickly. Most days in the summer, it will feel like it is over 100 degrees outside, so take that into account.
• Pack entertainment in your backpack – Lines are inevitable at Disney World, even if you’re planning on using Disney Genie+.
• Reusable water bottles are the way to go – Not only will you save money, but since buying water in the park is about $4 a bottle, it is so much easier just having your own bottle. There are many refill stations throughout the parks so you won’t have to search far for water.
• Leave space or bring another bag – If you are a big souvenir person, remember that they have to come home with you. Pack an empty duffle bag in your suitcase to bring all your souvenirs back with you.

Related Post: Guide On How to Get Cheap Disney Tickets

What are the Disney Essentials to Pack?

Disney World essentials are the non-negotiable items you’ll want to pack for your trip, regardless of the season or weather conditions. These items are crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable theme park experience. To avoid purchasing items you forgot at home, our Disney trip must-haves are packing essentials!

What are the Top Disney Trip Essentials to Pack?

• Travel documents, wallet, tickets
• Comfortable shoes
• Backpack
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Plastic bags
• Sunglasses
• Cooling devices
• Compact battery chargers
• Phone charging cords

Things You Need for Disney World – General Items

This next list of what to bring to Disney is what we suggest to bring for your overnight hotel stays. You might also be looking for things to keep yourself entertained when you’re not in the parks and relaxing by the pool, so it’s important to keep that in mind.

• An outfit for each planned day, and extra clothing
• Aloe gel or lotion
• Hair care products
• Swimsuits
• Deodorant
• A book or two
• Electronic devices (Cell phone, laptop, tablet)
• Batteries
• Tissues
• Chafing Stick
• Hair care products
• Toothpaste & toothbrush
• Towels, blankets
• Lotion
• Nail clippers
• Tampons and pads
• Hats
• Earplugs

Bonus tip: Don’t forget to pack your Disney ears, pins, and lanyards!

Travel Documents/Tickets/Wallet

The foundation of any Disney packing list 2024 starts with your travel documents. Not only are they the best things to pack for Disney World, but absolutely the most important are going to be all of the essential documents and information you need. If you’ve booked transportation, airline tickets, hotel reservations, etc., these are the things to bring to Disney World. Ensure you have email confirmations, and if not, physical copies. Forgetting your wallet or ID can be a hassle, so triple-check before you leave.

Comfortable shoes

When considering what to take to Disney World, your footwear should be a priority. A Walt Disney World vacation can quickly become uncomfortable without the right shoes. Given that you might be walking up to 10 miles a day or more, packing for Disney World requires good shoes. Consider shoes like Crocs for rainy days or a sturdy pair of tennis shoes. These are true Disney essentials.

Backpack or park bag

One of the top Disney trip essentials is a reliable backpack or park bag. When pondering what to bring to Disney, a park bag stands out as truly essential. Long theme park days can be tiring, and a well-packed backpack can be a lifesaver. Whether it’s band-aids, fans, chargers, or snacks, having ample space for your items, including medications and souvenirs, is crucial. This is one of the essentials for Disney World that you shouldn’t overlook.

Reusable Water bottle

Hydration is key, making a water bottle one of the Disney must-haves. Regardless of when you visit, a water bottle is a Disney World essential. Especially in summer, the heat in Central Florida can be intense, so packing a reusable water bottle is vital. If you’re traveling with kids, consider a kid-sized bottle for each.

Sunscreen

When drafting your Disney World packing list for 2024, sunscreen should be a priority. Remember that the Florida sun is relentless if you’re wondering what to pack for Disney. You’ll likely need to reapply sunscreen multiple times throughout the day to prevent sunburn. Whether you’re sweating in the summer heat or taking a dip in the pool, sunscreen is one of the Disney travel essentials.

Poncho/Umbrella

Rain is a frequent visitor in Florida, so when considering things to pack for Disney World, don’t forget about rain protection. To save money, consider purchasing a pack of disposable ponchos in advance or packing a rain jacket. Disney’s in-park ponchos can be pricey, so bringing your own is a smart move. With so many stylish designs available online, you can find ponchos that are both functional and fashionable.

Extra Bags

For those staying at Disney area hotels, extra bags are one of the Disney World necessities. They’re perfect for storing wet or dirty clothes, especially after an unexpected Florida downpour. Wet shoes or a last-minute swim can leave you with damp items, so having plastic bags on hand is a smart move when thinking about Disney World and what to bring.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses might seem like a small item, but they’re crucial things to take to Disney World. The Florida sun can be blinding, especially during summer. Many of Disney’s attractions and queues are outdoors, so having sunglasses is essential. It’s a good idea to pack an extra pair in case of breakage.

Cooling devices

Florida’s heat can be challenging, especially with the growing crowds in Disney parks. Cooling devices like neck fans, cooling towels, and handheld fans have become must-haves for a Disney trip. These items can make a significant difference in comfort levels during your visit. Look for cordless or battery-operated options for added convenience.

Compact external charger/Phone Chargers

With the introduction of the Disney Genie system, guests are using their phones more than ever. This increased usage means batteries drain faster. When planning what to pack for Disneyworld, a compact external charger is essential. These devices can fit easily in a pocket or park bag, ensuring your electronics stay charged and your Disney planning continues seamlessly.

Related Post: Guide to Individual Lightning Lane Rides Disney World

Should I use a Backpack at Disney?

Yes, you should pack a backpack for Disney World. Whether you’re solo traveling or with a family, a backpack is something you must pack for Disney World. I never go to the parks without my park bag! Especially since snacks and certain food and drinks are allowed inside of all the Disney World theme parks! And we are also huge fans of having groceries delivered to your Disney World hotel. Having that extra space to store food items, electronics, jackets, water, or merchandise can be life-saving.

Disney Park Bag Packing List Essentials

• Hand Sanitizer
• Parade or fireworks blanket
• Refillable water bottle
• Rain jacket/poncho
• Extra socks
• Medications (Anti-inflammatory, pain relievers, anti-nausea, anti-histamines)
• Phone charger cables and portable battery
• Ziplock bags (to keep your phone dry on water rides or with rain)
• Band-aids
• Sunscreen (Face stick, lotion, spray)
• Cooling device (Neck fan, misting bottle, hand-held fan)
• Sunglasses
• Tissues or napkins
• Snacks
• Ear Plugs
• Lip balm with SPF

Related Post: Complete Guide to Early Entry Disney World

What to Take to Disney World 2024

When packing for Disney World there are some extra smart things to bring from your normal packing list depending on the time of year, your party size, etc. That’s why we are going to share our best tips for what to pack for Disney World and give you other helpful Disney packing lists. There is nothing worse than being unprepared for your Walt Disney World vacation, so we will make sure all of your bases are covered.

Tips for making a Disney Packing List for Summer

Bring cooling items with you

We cannot stress enough how important it is to get a neck fan for Disney or get a cooling towel to help you from getting overheated. When you’re stuck in a ride queue outside without any moving air it can be extremely uncomfortable, so it is better to prepare beforehand before you end up buying a misting bottle in the park! You can also pack frozen plastic water bottles in your backpack if you want your back to stay cool while carrying it.

Pack a change of clothes

Unfortunately, from about May to October you will sweat in Disney World, especially in peak summer months like July and August. Being covered in sweat can be very uncomfortable for some, especially if you’re continuing to sweat and can’t seem to stop. That’s why we suggest packing at least an extra shirt to help your body stay dry in the extreme humidity and heat.

Tips for making a Disney World packing list for winter

Layer your clothing

Weather in the winter can be a little wonky, with extremely cold mornings or nights and rather warm afternoons. We always suggest if you’re visiting past October layer your clothing to make sure you’re warm enough when it’s chilly but not overheating and stuck in a sweater when the sun comes out.

Don’t forget about the heat

When packing for Disney in the winter, sometimes guests forget that Florida can have random hot days in the winter. If you don’t want to get stuck buying a t-shirt inside of the Disney parks, remember to check the weather. If you’re unsure, bring a lighter shirt with you into the parks no matter what to make sure you’re comfortable.

What to pack for Disney World snacks?

One of the best things to bring to Disney World to save a ton of money is to pack your own snacks. Disney food can be very expensive and drain your budget if you aren’t prepared. That’s why we love that Disney allows guests to bring food into the parks that do not require any heating.

• Granola or protein bars
• Fruit snacks
• Crackers
• Pretzels
• Precut and washed fruit
• Nuts or trail mix
• String cheese
• Cold sandwiches
• Chips

Related Post: Complete Guide to Disney Springs Hotels

What to Pack for Disney World FAQ

Q: What can you not bring to Disney?

A: Walt Disney World does have a list of prohibited items that you cannot bring when you are visiting. The following items are not allowed to be brought with you inside of Walt Disney World:

• Weapons
• Alcoholic beverages (you can purchase it there)
• Illegal substances
• Fireworks
• Wagons
• Bags (Coolers, suitcases, backpacks) larger than 24″ long x 15″ wide x 18″ high
• Folding chairs
• Glass containers
• Megaphones or horns
• Selfie sticks

Q: Should I use a backpack at Disney?

A: Yes, you should absolutely bring a backpack to Disney. Since the park days can be so long, and some days extremely hot, it is important to be prepared for the day. Having a backpack at Disney allows you to carry along everything you need when having the most magical day!

Q: Can you bring a backpack to Disney?

A: Yes, you can bring a backpack to Disney. Suitcases, bags, coolers, or backpacks with or without wheels cannot exceed 24″ long x 15″ wide x 18″ high. All guests are subject to a search when entering the parks to ensure the safety of all guests visiting.

Q: When should I start packing for Disney World?

A: We would say to start packing about a week before you leave, being fully packed 3 days before you leave. That way you can make sure you have all your Disney travel essentials and have plenty of time to make sure you don’t forget anything.

Q: What bags could I bring to Disney World?

A: There aren’t really limits on what bags you can bring into Walt Disney World when it comes to type, it is more about the size of the bag. Guests can bring all kinds of backpacks into the parks as long as it does not exceed 24″ long x 15″ wide x 18″ high.

Q: Do I need to pack towels for Disney World?

A: There is really no need to pack towels for Disney World since they do provide them throughout the resort. The towels are standard hotel towels and are even provided at the resort hotels, but if you’re looking for something nicer or larger, you might want to pack your own.

When is The Best Time to Visit Disney World?

Our Disney  World Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature. We also break down the best time to visit Disney World based on specific times of the year and special events.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Be sure to speak with a Disney World Travel Agent for the most recent deals and promotions. The Park Prodigy will provide a Free Quote for all Disney World Vacation Packages. The Park Prodigy can also help you save up to $20 per ticket when purchasing your Walt Disney World Tickets, and we offer promotional discounts for special events such as Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets.

Don’t forget to check out our wonderful friends over at Theme Park Today, as well!