You’ve booked your dream Walt Disney World holiday, created the ultimate itinerary, and your excitement levels are flying high. There’s just one thing left to do – pack the suitcase. If this is your first time visiting the parks, it can often be daunting to know exactly what to pack. But don’t worry, that’s where we come in! As the UK’s No.1 Independent
Florida Holiday Company, we can advise on everything that needs a spot in your luggage. From the crucial travel documents to those extra little comforts, we’ve got you covered…
Essentials Packing Items
Tickets and documentation…
Park tickets and magic bands - Ensure you have your tickets or MagicBands ready. These are your keys to entering the parks and accessing FastPass+ reservations.
Passport and reservation details – Do we really have to remind you? Yes! One thing you absolutely don’t want to leave home without is your passport. Consider keeping it with your park tickets and magic bands. After all, you don’t want to keep Mickey and the gang waiting. Plus, be sure to have all reservation details on hand. We recommend printing hard copies if possible as this could be a lifesaver if there are any internet issues or problems with your phone.
Appropriate clothing…
Lightweight, breathable clothing – One thing you can be fairly certain of with a trip to Walt Disney World is that it’s going to be warm - if not scorching. For this reason, lightweight clothing is a must. We also advise bringing light cover up items such as shirts or shawls to prevent burning from those strong Sunshine State rays.
Hats and sunglasses – Something that should always be on your Walt Disney World packing checklist is hats and sunglasses. Being in the Sunshine State is of course wonderful but it can be too much of a good thing. Err on the side of caution and make use of head coverings and sunglasses for a more health-conscious holiday.
Swimwear – It’s not all rollercoasters and simulators on offer at Walt Disney World, you will also find two water parks here as well. With that in mind, you will need to pack your swimsuits and any extra items such as goggles, armbands, etc. And if you have Disney-specific swimwear items, this is the perfect chance to display them.
Good footwear – Appropriate footwear is key when asked what to pack for Walt Disney World. It might be tempting to wear sandals in the sun, but the theme parks are extremely vast, so your feet will be doing plenty of work. To cover more ground and get ahead of the crowds, we absolutely recommend packing your most comfortable footwear, preferably trainers or walking shoes. If you’ve just recently splashed out on a new pair, be sure to test them out before you travel. No one needs those dreaded blisters at the Happiest Place on Earth.
Personal care items…
Sunscreen – This item is a necessity for your Walt Disney World packing checklist. It’s advisable to apply before heading to the parks and don’t be afraid to keep lathering on throughout the day. The more the merrier when it comes to sunscreen.
Waterproofs – Rain is always a possibility in Orlando and quite often there can be strong downpours. To not get your best Disney gear soaked, we recommend bringing rain jackets or ponchos. You can purchase these at the parks, but beware, they can be pricey. So, to keep that extra bit of cash for souvenirs, it’s always advisable to pack these in your luggage.
First-aid kits – Be sure to pack a basic first-aid kit for any mishaps. This should at least include the basics, such as plasters, bandages, and antiseptic wipes, as well as painkillers and any medications needed.
Accessories…
Portable phone charger – Picture the scene – you’ve just made it to the front of the queue for a meet and greet with your favourite Disney character and your phone dies! To avoid this nightmare scenario, one thing that deserves a space in your suitcase is a portable phone charger. As well as being your camera, your phone is also a terrific way to make reservations, check maps, and find official Disney information, so having a backup charger comes in extremely handy.
Backpack – When it comes to what to pack for Walt Disney World, this one will go a long way. Packing a small separate backpack allows you to store all your essential items for the day, such as water bottles, sunscreen, snacks, ponchos, and phone chargers. Although, since it’s going to be lugged around with you all day, choosing the right one is key to having a magical day free of any backache. All four Disney theme parks also provide lockers for your backpacks starting from around $10 per day, but please be aware that prices can change.
Refillable water bottle – If you don’t want to spend a fortune on keeping hydrated, we recommend packing a refillable water bottle. This can be used at any water fountains around the parks. After all, walking around Walt Disney World can be very thirsty work with all that excitement.
Autograph book – With all those famous Disney faces wandering around, you’ll absolutely want to have an autograph book at the ready. You will also find an array of fun and fabulous styles to choose from.
Special Considerations for Families
For young children…
Activity books – Lines are inevitable at Walt Disney World, so having a stash of activity books or other types of entertainment for the little ones is sure to go down a treat.
Stroller – Little legs can get tired quickly. So, unless you want to be testing those muscles carrying your child all day, a stroller is one of the best things to pack for Walt Disney World. Rentals are also available at the parks.
Snacks – We all know hunger can strike at any moment. And with young children, playing the waiting game can be a challenge. For this reason, having snacks in your daypack is essential to keep little ones calm. It also saves on any expenses in between meals.
For older kids…
Trading pins – For a whole lot of fun, we suggest bringing some Disney-themed pins which can be purchased online and in the parks. These come in a variety of characters and themes and can be traded throughout the parks with other guests or cast members.
Disney-themed apparel – It’s Walt Disney World, so it’s only right you wear all the gear to match the occasion. Clothing, hats, shoes, it’s all a fantastic way to embrace the magic at the parks and a chance to show off which Disney movies and characters you love the most.
Parade blanket – One of the best things to pack for older kids is a parade blanket. A parade blanket can significantly enhance your comfort and enjoyment while waiting for and watching parades, fireworks, and other outdoor shows at
Walt Disney World.
Are you ready to pack your bags and jet off to the magic? View our bespoke Walt Disney Resort holidays today.
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