10 Travel Essentials for Every Disney Fan
As summer begins to wind down, you may be planning a Disney getaway, or one last family vacation. A trip to any Disney park is a big undertaking, so to make sure you don’t waste a single precious moment (or penny), we’ve compiled a list of everything you need to bring for your trip of a lifetime, or to enjoy any vacation with a Disney vibe.
Whether you want to arrive in style, avoid the theme park markups, or be prepared for whatever surprises come your way, we’ve got you covered. Here are ten must-haves for your next trip to the happiest place on earth (or anywhere else!):
Before You Go
1. Luggage Tags
Get the party started before you even leave your home by decorating your luggage with Disney luggage tags. This simple purchase will help get everyone in the Disney spirit even while packing. It’s also a great way to quickly and easily identify your bags on a luggage carousel or cart.
2. Luggage for the Whole Family
Disney bags for the kids, and a sleek new set of luggage for the adults. A carry-on, backpack, or shoulder bag with their favorite character will make them want to carry their own things, because let's face it, your hands are probably full enough as it is.
Out and About
3. Rain Gear
Be prepared for the rain with a rain poncho or rain jacket. Vinyl ponchos are lightweight and fold up to the perfect size to keep in a pocket, diaper bag, or fanny pack for easy access. Grab one with your favorite character on the front so the Disney fun never stops, even in the rain
4. Back up clothing
Bring extra t-shirts just in case. You never know if you’ll get caught in a rainstorm, spill your ice cream on yourself, or get more soaked than you expected on a water ride. Don’t let a dirty shirt ruin your day, or your vacation photos. Avoid the in-park up-charge and grab an awesome Disney shirt before you go. It’s always a good idea to have backup.
5. Laundry Bags
For those dirty and wet clothes, bring a reusable laundry storage bag. These ones are made of odor-blocking polyester and are treated with an antimicrobial agent, so packing up at the end of your trip is a breeze. If you’ve got little ones or messy eaters, the smaller size bag is even great to throw in a backpack or stroller compartment, just in case.
6. Hats
Protect your head and eyes by bringing a bucket hat or baseball cap. Bucket hats are perfect for babies and toddlers with sensitive heads, or little ones who don’t want to wear sunglasses.
7. Water Bottles
Save some money by bringing your own refillable water bottle (and don’t forget snacks). All Disney parks have plenty of fountains for quick refills, or you can stop by any Quick Service location for free ice water. And it you do by a drink, pouring it into a water bottle makes it easier to carry and will keep it cool.
8. Backpacks
Eliminate extra trips from the car/hotel by carrying everything you need in a tote bag or backpack. Shuttling from the park to parking lot is always a hassle, so make sure you bring a bag or tote large enough to fit everything you need.
9. Wallets
Disney World is always crowded; don’t make yourself an easy target for people trying to steal your info. Keep your information safe and secure with a special, RFID blocking wallet.
These zip around wallets have enough space to carry all the cash you’re hoping to spend on souvenirs, plus room for your ID, credit cards, and hotel keys. They also have RFID blocking technology for extra protection. Grab one for him, and one for her.
While you're at it, pick one up for the kids so they can hold on to their own souvenir money with a Disney themed wallet.
10. Fans
While wandering around Epcot in the Florida heat, or touring Downtown Disney in the California sun sounds like fun, it’s important to take precautions at all times. Sunburn and heat exhaustion will put an instant damper on your vacation, so pack plenty of sunscreen, and cool yourself down while waiting in line or walking around with a Disney mist fan. The combination of cooling air and refreshing mist is the perfect way to keep the heat at bay. Squirting water at each other is also a fun way to keep kids (and adults) entertained while you wait in line for rides.
Don't forget your face masks! A cute mask with an animal print will add an adorable touch to all your vacation photos.
Above all else, the most important thing you can bring with you is a positive attitude! While it helps to be prepared, there’s no guarantee everything will go as planned, but staying optimistic and learning roll with the punches will help you make the most of your vacation, no matter what!
Click here to see more Disney must-haves for fans of all ages.