I have been to Disney many many times, almost too many to count. Before you start packing though, you need a game plan. Important questions to help put a plan into place:
What time of year are you going?
Florida weather can dramatically change what you need. Think heat, humidity, rain, cooler evenings, or hurricane-season weather. I have been during a hurricane, in the cold, and when it feels like you’ve been cremated. Knowing the weather when you will be there is ESSENTIAL. Although… also can be an excuse to buy Disney merch. “Darn! I need to buy a cute sweatshirt?!”
How many park days do you have planned?
Your packing needs are different for 2 park days versus 7. More days doesn’t necessarily mean more clothes—you may just need a better laundry strategy. Also, if you are park hopping think about how you plan to carry everything you need throughout the day.
Are you bringing kids?
Consider each child’s age and what they actually use—not what you think they might need. Also, you may just need to think realistically about your game plan depending on the ages of your children. Can they handle the heat? Will you need more pool or nap breaks? Don’t put pressure on yourself to pack everything into your trip with littles. You and your kiddos want to enjoy it, and if everyone is hot, grumpy, and tired… that won’t happen
Are you bringing a stroller?
If yes, think about a stroller fan, rain cover, storage, identification, and what you’re going to keep in it. Think about the type of stroller you need or want to bring. Try to bring something that easily folds or can be broken down when getting onto a bus, monorail, skyliner. If you have a heavy duty stroller that is a must, consider using the Minnie Van service, as they make that piece very easy.
Where are you staying?
Your resort’s amenities matter. You may have access to laundry, pools, transportation, toiletries, refrigerators, etc. Are you staying on or off of Disney property (I always recommend on, there are so many options and it makes transportation less stressful). Know your extra park hours if that is included with your resort.
Will have or need access to a car?
This affects whether you can easily grab forgotten items, groceries, medications, or other necessities. I have rarely had a car with me and I prefer it that way.
Are you flying or driving?
Flying means thinking about TSA, luggage limits, carry-ons, and what needs to stay accessible. Driving gives you considerably more flexibility. If you plan to fly, think about space in your suitcase coming back. If you purchase several items that won’t fit, you can ask your resort to ship them to your home address as long as you have the receipt for those items.
What can you buy once you arrive?
You don’t need to pack everything. Some toiletries, snacks, diapers, drinks, and other basics can be purchased after you arrive.
Do you have any special events planned?
Character dining, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, parties, cruises, pool days, or other special events may require specific outfits/items.
What can’t you easily replace?
Prioritize medications, glasses/contacts, important documents, chargers, and anything expensive or difficult to replace. Put these items high on your priority list! Nothing worse than being on vacation and scrambling to pick up a prescription or struggling to see your whole trip without glasses/contacts.
Trust me – once you can answer all of the above, it will make packing for your trip a way more organized and stress free experience
Essential Items you MUST HAVE
- Portable Fans
- Handheld Fan – My 3 kiddos brought these everywhere on our trip, and believe it or not never lost them!
- Neck Fan – great hands free option
- Cooling Towel
- Ponchos
- Refillable Water Bottles
- Yeti – Insulated Bottles – Not too big, not too small. Can easily hook onto a purse or backpack. We always bring these specific ones when traveling with our kids… anywhere not just Disney!
- Portable Chargers
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase something through a link, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely think could be helpful for your Disney trip.
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t to pack for every possible scenario—it’s to pack the things that make your trip a little easier, a little more comfortable, and leave more room in your suitcase (and your brain!) for the magic. ✨🏰
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