Your Go-To Guide for Packing the Perfect Theme Park Bag
Written by Rachel Ruppert
Hi there, Disney fans! If you're ready to unlock the secrets of having a perfect day at the Disney theme parks, you've come to the right place! Preparing for a day at the Most Magical Place on Earth is an art, and as someone who’s spent plenty of time wandering through the parks, I’ve learned that having the right essentials in your bag can make all the difference in your experience. I’ve put together a guide of some must-haves to make your theme park day extra smooth and tons of fun. Whether you're sporting a Disney Loungefly backpack, a cross-body bag, or a fanny pack. Let’s check out what makes for a great theme park bag and how to get the most out of your Disney adventure!
Picking the Right Theme Park Bag
Before we dive into what to pack, let’s talk about the bag itself. Here are some ideas of what to look for:
Comfort and Lightweight Material: You’ll want adjustable, padded straps for comfort. Also, go for something durable but light if you can—so you’re not weighed down.
Lots of Pockets: Keep stuff organized with a bag that has plenty of compartments for easy access.
Water-Resistant: Between water rides and Florida’s unpredictable weather, a water-resistant bag is a must!
Just the Right Size: Aim for medium-sized. Big enough to hold your must-haves but compact enough to carry easily. You'll also want something you can store in the ride vehicles on Disney attractions, or your stroller. (You can also rent the theme park lockers if you'd like to.)
Essentials for Your Theme Park Bag
Here are a few tips for what you might want to pack:
1. Stay Hydrated: A reusable water bottle is great to stay hydrated while saving money on bottled water. There are plenty of places to refill in the parks. Or if you don't want to bring your own bottle, you can always visit the Quick Service spots for a free cup of water!
2. Snacks: While Disney’s treats are amazing, packing snacks like granola bars can help tie you over, while saving you on cash. They do allow you to bring your own food to the parks! Just be aware of Disney's security policies.
Guests are allowed to bring outside food and nonalcoholic beverage items into the park for self-consumption, provided they are not in glass containers and do not require heating, reheating, processing, refrigeration or temperature control and do not have pungent odors. Inform a Security Cast Member of any food items when you enter the park.
3. Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. That Florida sun is no joke!
4. Portable Charger: Keep your phone ready for taking photos and using the app with a portable charger.
Or you can use fuel rods, there are kiosks throughout Walt Disney World!
5. Rain Poncho: Florida loves surprise rain showers. A poncho can keep you dry and folds away easily afterward. Its a lot cheaper to buy your own off-property before your trip!
6. Autograph Book and Pen: If you plan to meet Disney characters and want a fun keepsake, capture the memories with an autograph book and pen from one of Disney's gift shops.
7. Map and Entertainment Schedule: There is always the mobile app, but a physical map and schedule can be handy too and save battery. Pick one up on your way in the park!
8. Reusable Straws: Since straws can be scarce in Disney these days, bringing your own reusable ones is both convenient and eco-friendly.
9. Stay Cool: A portable fan or cooling towels are lifesavers in the Florida heat!
10. First-Aid and Miscellaneous: Pack band-aids, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, tissues, chapstick, and medication/pain relievers.
Ziplock bags are also useful for keeping your phone safe on water rides or leftover snacks.
Tips for Traveling with Your Theme Park Bag
Security Savvy: Organize your bag for quick security checks. At Walt Disney World, bags are subject to security screening. Guests walk through metal detectors, and if a bag sets off the detector, it will be checked by a Disney World Security Cast Member.
Pack Ahead: Get your bag ready the night before so you’re not rushing in the morning.
Disney lockers: As mentioned above, if you don't want to carry your belongings around all day, Disney parks have locker rentals. https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/locker-rentals/
Easy Access: Keep things like your phone and wallet in an easy-to-reach spot.
Feel free to tailor this information to suit your specific needs and comfort. With these tips and tricks, you’re all set for a fun-filled day at Walt Disney World! Packing your ideal theme park bag means you can focus on what really matters—having a blast and making a ton of new memories. Have a magical time! 🎉🏰
For even more insight and expertise, get your free vacation quote today and book your Disney adventure with one of our incredible People Mover Travel agents! We'd love to assist with creating your perfect itinerary and planning your trip!
Rachel has had a passion for travel for as long as she can remember! She grew up visiting Walt Disney World every year and fell in love with international travel on her first trip to Europe at age sixteen. This love led her to pursue a degree in tourism and hospitality; studying abroad in Italy; participating in the Disney College Program and working at Walt Disney World as a Cast Member where she met her now husband! She and her husband love to travel and are always looking forward to their next adventure!