You’ve been counting down the years, months, weeks, and days, and your Disney World vacation is FINALLY here! But, before you can hug Mickey and stuff your face with Mickey-sized treats…you’ve got to pack (womp, womp).

For some Disney-goers, packing is the easy part compared to all the planning involved in securing Park Pass Reservations, dining reservations, and more. But, others don’t even know where to start. And, even if you plan things out perfectly…you lay all your clothes and must-have items on the bed…you could still end up forgetting something.

But, we don’t want that to be you! So, we created the ultimate Walt Disney World packing checklist. From what to wear, to what you need for your hotel stay, to what you need for the parks, and what you DON’T need, we’ve got it all covered. Have this on hand when you pack for Disney World and you’ll be set up like the pros!

What To Wear

Disney Tees

In general, you’re going to want to pack at least one shirt for every day of your trip. So, why not make it a Disney tee?! Disney World is unlike any other vacation destination in that the majority of guests are usually wearing something Disney-themed. And, while you certainly can wait to purchase a shirt or two at the gift shops during your trip, you can save money by stocking up on your Disney tees before your trip!

Places like Amazon, Target, and Walmart usually have a variety of t-shirt designs, featuring classic Disney characters, attraction logos, and more. So, you can find a shirt that reflects your personality and interests. Plus, you could go all out and buy matching shirts for your entire family! This makes keeping track of each other in the parks easier.

Shorts or Pants

Check the weather forecast before you start packing so that you know whether shorts or pants are best to bring along. Disney World is located in Central Florida, so you can usually expect high temps and humidity. But, that’s not always the case! The weather can get pretty cold in the winter months and you don’t want to have shorts when it’s in the 40s (yes, this can — and has — happened!).

Slip Shorts

Prefer to wear a dress or skirt to the parks? Slip shorts are a must-have! Slip shorts, also known as anti-chafing shorts, are designed to prevent chafing and rubbing, especially during long periods of walking or standing. They can help prevent skin irritation, discomfort, and even rashes, especially in hot and humid weather. Plus, they’re usually made of breathable materials. This can help keep you cool and dry during your trip and prevent sweat from dripping down your legs in the Florida humidity.

Comfortable Shoes

Between attractions, shows, parades, park hopping and more spread out throughout all of Disney World, you’ll be covering a lot of ground and getting in A LOT of steps during your Disney World vacation! In fact, you’ll likely be on your feet for most of the day, walking, standing in lines, and exploring the parks. And, if you’re not wearing comfortable shoes, you’re going to pay the price. So, forego the new pair of shoes or the cute shoes that hurt your feet. Instead, pack a pair of comfortable shoes that you know work well for you and won’t give you blisters.

Comfortable Socks

Comfortable socks are almost as important as wearing comfortable shoes! With so much walking and standing, having the right socks can make all the difference. By bringing comfortable socks, you can avoid blisters and other foot problems that can ruin your trip. A good pair of socks should have cushioning and be made of a breathable material to keep your feet cool and dry in the Florida heat.

Hat and Sunglasses

It’s almost always sunny in Florida, and the sun can do a lot of damage to you if you don’t have a hat and sunglasses with you. You’ll be spending a lot of time outside in the parks and you certainly don’t want to get back to your hotel just to find that you have a terrible sunburn on your face from not wearing the proper gear!

Rain Jacket or Poncho

The Florida weather can be unpredictable, so having a rain jacket or poncho in your park bag is a smart idea — even if you’re visiting during a time of year when rain is unlikely! With a rain jacket or poncho, you’ll be prepared for any sudden changes in the weather and can soak up all your time at the parks without actually getting soaked. Plus, having a rain jacket or poncho on hand will save you from having to buy overpriced ponchos or rain gear at the parks, which can put a dent in your Disney vacation budget and be inconvenient.

Jacket/Extra Layers

If you’re traveling to Disney World in the winter months, you might be surprised to hear that you’re going to need some layers — it actually can get cold! But, even if you’re visiting in the summer a jacket or extra layer is great to have on hand if you’re someone who gets cold easily. Temperatures can be cooler in the early mornings and late evenings, plus Disney tends to blast the AC inside restaurants, ride queues, and theaters when it’s particularly hot outside.

Nice Outfit

While you can show up to most dining reservations in your regular park day attire, some of Disney World’s signature restaurants have a dress code. So, if you’ve got a special meal planned at these select restaurants, you’ll need to pack an outfit that fits the requirements. You can find the full dress code and details on what you can (and can’t) wear on Disney’s website.

Disney Accessories

Wear your favorite pair of Minnie Ears or the Mickey light-up necklace you’ve been storing away in your closet — you’re going to Disney World, after all! Sporting your favorite Disney accessories is half the fun and certainly completes the Disney vacationer look.

For Your Disney Hotel

MagicBand or MagicBand+

You don’t necessarily need a MagicBand for your Disney World vacation, but it sure does come in handy! MagicBands serve as your ticket to the parks (allowing you to enter, scan into Lightning Lanes if you’ve purchased Lightning Lanes, and make purchases with just a touch), can be linked to your Disney hotel reservation and used as the key to your room, and allows you to track your Disney PhotoPass photos that you have taken throughout your vacation. So, basically, it just streamlines your vacation experience and makes it easier to fully enjoy all that the parks have to offer.

Just note that MagicBands are no longer free with your Disney Resort stay. Instead, you can purchase them at a discount prior to your trip through your My Disney Experience account or buy them at any Disney gift shop during your visit at full price.

Phone Chargers & Cords

Bringing enough phone chargers and cords with you for your Disney hotel stay is a key step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free vacation. It’s nearly impossible to do Disney without your phone anymore between taking photos, checking wait times, securing your spot in the virtual queue for popular rides, making dining reservations, and more. All that can really drain your phone battery…and FAST.

Power Strip

Many Disney World hotel rooms have limited outlets, and a power strip is a great solution for getting additional outlets to charge all of your devices. Plus, some power strips come with extra USB ports, allowing you to charge even more devices at once and saving you time.

Ear Plugs

Disney World hotels can be noisy, especially if you are staying near a busy area or trying to get in a nap when there’s construction! Earplugs can help tune out the noise from other guests who are getting back from late-night fireworks or are up early with little kiddos and guarantee that you’ll be well-rested and ready to take on another busy park day.

Bathing Suit

Whether you want to cool off from the Florida heat, relax in the pool, or enjoy a water park, a bathing suit is a must-have item! Disney World is home to some of the best hotel pools, so you won’t want to forget to pack a bathing suit (or two!).

Swim Shoes

You don’t have to go all out and buy water shoes, but it’s a good idea to have a pair of flip-flops or sandals to wear on your walk to and from the pool.

Trading Pins

You never know when a pin trading board might pop up, and you can often find them (or Cast Members wearing pin trading lanyards) at the Disney hotels. Bringing some with you from home means that you’ll be ready to trade whenever you stumble upon a pin that you want!

Case of water

Bottled water in Disney World is pricey, so having a case of water with you in your hotel room can save money. Plus, you won’t have to run down to your hotel’s quick service restaurant any time you need to hydrate for your busy (and usually warm) park day.

If you’re driving to Disney, we’d recommend throwing a case of water in the trunk with your luggage to bring along. And, if you’re flying or taking some other form of transportation that means you won’t have your own car with you, consider ordering a case of water through a grocery delivery service and have it delivered to your Disney hotel!

Pajamas

You probably don’t want to sleep in your park clothes!

Laundry detergent

Every Disney World hotel has a laundry room with washers and dryers for guests can go to their own laundry. And, while most people pack enough outfits for every day of their trip, doing laundry at Disney World can be really handy if you’re doing an extended stay or accidentally spill something on your clothes. Disney doesn’t provide laundry detergent, though, so you’ll need to bring this with you.

State ID

You’ll need this to check in and purchase any alcohol at your hotel (if you’re over 21, of course).

Deodorant

This one probably goes without saying…

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a must-have for soothing and hydrating sun-kissed (or burnt) skin. But, it’s not just good to have this on hand in case you forget to put more sunscreen on mid-day! Aloe Vera also helps with dry skin, itchy skin, and skin irritation making it a versatile and essential item for your Disney World trip.

Chapstick

Chapstick can both prevent and treat any damage your lips may get from being out in the sun all day!

Medication

You don’t want to be without your regular medication for the entirety of your Disney World trip! And, it’s never a bad idea to pack along some other meds like Tylenol, Motrin, or Tums in case you run into any other issues.

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

It’s easy to forget, but something you really don’t want to forget!

Bandaids

Whether it’s a blister from your shoes or an accidental cut, having some bandaids on hand is always helpful!

Wrinkle Release Spray

It can be hard to pack light when you’re going to Disney World. And, lots of things packed tightly together can mean that you’re wearing wrinkly clothes to the parks. Having some wrinkle-release spray is an easy fix for this common problem.

Feminine Products (if applicable)

Just in case!

Makeup (if applicable)

If you’re someone who feels their best when they’re wearing makeup, don’t forget to bring this along! Try to opt for sweat-proof products so that your makeup can withstand the warm, humid park days.

For Your Disney Park Days

Sunscreen

Applying sunscreen regularly throughout the day is important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent painful sunburns. Sunscreen is available for purchase in the parks, but it’s overpriced compared to what you pay at your local stores. So, bringing your own sunscreen can save you money. It’ll also ensure that you have a trusted brand and the right level of SPF for your skin type.

Park bag

With so much to do and see in the parks, carrying a bag with your essentials ensures that you’re prepared for anything! You’ll want to have things like your wallet, phone, park tickets (if you’re not using a MagicBand or MagicMobile), sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, and extra layers of clothing on you. Plus, bringing a spacious park bag can save you from having to carry around extra souvenir bags or any other purchases you make throughout your day.

If you just want to bring the bare minimum, consider using a fanny pack as your park bag.

Reusable Water Bottle

It’s easy to forget to hydrate during your Disney trip. And, the cost of a water bottle in the parks might deter you even more. So, instead of paying $3+ per bottle, bring along a reusable water bottle! There are several water refill stations throughout the parks and resorts. Plus, most Quick Service restaurants offer free cups of water making it easy to stay hydrated.

Autograph Book

Meeting Disney characters is one of the most exciting parts of a Disney World vacation. And, having an autograph book on hand can make the encounter even more special. Not only can you get a personal signature from your favorite characters, but an autograph book is also a great place to add any photos you get with the characters and write down special memories from the interaction.

Now, Disney does sell autograph books in the parks, but bringing your own can be a cost-effective and personalized option. We’d also recommend bringing an oversized pen with you so that it’s easier for the characters to write!

Cell Phones

In this day and age, it’s probably unlikely that you’re going to forget to bring your phone to the parks. But, it’s so important to have with you that it’s worth noting here!

Portable Phone Charger

With the My Disney Experience app, the Play Disney Parks app, tons of photo ops, and the need to communicate with your family, your phone battery will probably drain faster than it does at home. Disney does have charging stations throughout the parks, but they can be hard to find and you’ll be attached to a wall until your phone is charged. So, avoid the panic of the dreaded 20% battery left message altogether, and bring a portable phone charger!

We recommend the FuelRod Portable Chargers. Disney actually has FuelRod stations throughout the parks where you can swap out for a new, fully charged FuelRod once you’ve used yours. You can purchase a new FuelRod for the first time at these stations for roughly $30. However, you can get a better deal if you get them on Amazon before your trip.

Umbrella

A sudden rain shower can happen at any time in Florida — even on sunny days! Having an umbrella can keep you and your belongings dry. Plus, it’ll likely prevent you from having to leave the park when a storm hits.

Ziploc Bags

From storing snacks to protecting your electronics on water rides, ziploc bags can come in handy!

Hand Sanitizer

You don’t want to end up sick during (or after) your Disney World vacation! There are a lot of germs circulating around with all the crowds, after all.

Stroller (if applicable)

If you’re traveling with small kiddos, a stroller is a must-have item. Not only will it save you from having to carry your kids around 90% of the day because they say their feet hurt, but it also serves as a convenient storage space and helps with on-the-go naps.

You can rent strollers from Disney in the parks. However, if you want to save money and have your stroller with you everywhere you go, bring your own along! Just be sure that it is not greater than 31″ (79 cm) in width and 52″ (132 cm) in length or a stroller wagon. Disney has banned strollers of these sizes in the parks. And, consider getting an Apple AirTag to hide in a pocket of your stroller. That way you can easily find it after riding a ride if a Cast Member happens to move it.

Dining Reservations Confirmation

Your My Disney Experience account stores all of your dining reservations. However, there can be technical glitches from time to time. And, with how hard it can be to secure reservations at the most popular restaurants in Disney World, having a screenshot or printout of your confirmation details is a solid backup plan.

Extra Pair Of Socks

We’ve already talked about how important it is to have comfy socks for your park days, but you should also bring extra along with you to the park! You never know if you’ll be the unlucky person that ends up totally drenched on water rides or if you’ll be caught in the middle of an unexpected rain storm.

In either case, a fresh pair of socks can make all the difference.

Wallet

You’ll likely be paying for food and souvenirs in the parks. So, bring along a compact wallet that can store your credit cards, IDs, and some cash. Even if you’re planning on using your MagicBand for all your charges, have your wallet on hand in case.

Portable Fan

A portable fan can be a lifesaver in the Florida heat! With high temperatures and humidity, it’s easy to feel hot and uncomfortable throughout the day. Especially when waiting in long lines or walking between attractions. A portable fan can give you the relief that you need when the sun is pounding down on you.

Consider one that secures onto a bag or stroller or hangs around your neck!

Reusable Straws

Disney is always striving to make the planet a better place. And, one way that they are doing that is by reducing plastic waste. So, you won’t find plastic straws in the parks and resorts! Instead, you’ll usually find paper straws. While they may be good for the planet, the paper straws tend to break down and get mushy pretty quickly. So, bring some of your own reusable straws to solve the problem!

Anti-Chafe Balm

The combination of heat, humidity, and long hours of walking and standing can lead to painful chafing and skin irritation. Especially in sensitive areas like the thighs, underarms, and feet. Anti-chafe balm, like Body Glide, can help prevent this. It creates a protective barrier between the skin and clothing, reducing friction and irritation to keep you pain-free.

Games to play while standing in lines

When visiting Disney World, it’s no secret that waiting in line is a big part of the experience. While some of the queues are designed to be entertaining and immersive, others can be long and dull. To pass the time and make the wait more enjoyable, bring games to play while standing in lines. Portable games like card games, travel-sized board games, or even phone apps can keep you and your group entertained while you wait.

What To Leave At Home

Disney has a list of items that are banned from the parks and resorts. You’ll want to read up on them before you do your packing! Here are all the things that you’ll want to leave at home:

Banned Substances

• Firearms, ammunition, knives and weapons of any kind.
• Self-defense or restraining devices (e.g., pepper spray, mace)
• Marijuana (including marijuana-enriched products) or any illegal substance.
• Objects or toys that appear to be firearms or weapons.
• Fireworks or other similarly explosive and/or flammable objects, smoke machines or fog machines.
• Alcoholic beverages, except at the Disney Resort hotels. Wine may be brought in to Disney Springs to be consumed at select table service restaurants only, corkage fees apply.

Banned Strollers and Vehicles

• Strollers that are greater than 31″ (79 cm) in width and 52″ (132 cm) in length. Stroller wagons are also prohibited.
• Wagons are prohibited at any theme park or water park. Wagons are prohibited at indoor venues at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
• Any trailer-like object that is pushed, pulled or towed by an Electric Conveyance Vehicle, wheelchair, stroller or person.
• Wheeled mobility devices with less than 3 wheels or devices that cannot maintain stability and balance when stopped, unpowered and/or unoccupied. Training wheels and/or modifications are not permitted.
• Devices must be manually or electrically powered and operated at a walking pace. Devices should be single rider and not exceed 36″ (92 cm) in width and 52″ (132 cm) in length.

Other Banned Items

• Suitcases, bags, coolers or backpacks, with or without wheels, larger than 24″ long x 15″ wide x 18″ high (61 cm x 38 cm x 46 cm) are not allowed in any theme park or water park. Loose or dry ice is not permitted in these containers. Re-usable ice packs are recommended.
• Folding chairs are not allowed in any theme park, water park or Disney Springs.
• Selfie sticks, hand-held extension poles for cameras or mobile devices, flags and banners are not allowed in any theme park or water park.
• Tripods or monopod stands that cannot fit inside a standard backpack or that extend over 6’ (182 cm) are not allowed in theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs, or ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
• Glass containers (excluding small containers such as baby food jars), except in the Disney Resort hotels.
• Horns, whistles, large megaphones or artificial noise makers.
• Recreational devices such as drones, remote-control toys, skateboards, scooters, inline skates or shoes with built-in wheels. Bicycles are permitted only in designated Disney Resort areas.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Banned Items

• Balloons are not permitted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, water parks, ESPN Wide World of Sports, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Kidani Village and Jambo House)
• Plastic straws are not permitted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, water parks or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Kidani Village and Jambo House)
• Non-Coast Guard approved flotation devices or swim noodles at any water park.

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Banned Items

And, if you’re going to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex while you’re visiting, you won’t be able to bring these things along either:

• Generators
• Propane heaters
• Large misting fans (personal handheld misting fans are permitted)
• Flags/banners of any kind that are larger than 3’ x 5’ regardless of how the flag/banner is intended to be carried
• Metal flag poles. Flag poles must be made out of wood, plastic and/or PVC. Flag poles cannot be longer than 4’, have diameters larger than 2”, or have decorative or sharp ends.
• Coolers are prohibited at indoor venues, except for team coolers which must remain at the team bench.
• Folding chairs are not permitted in the stadium, indoor venues, or at select outdoor events

Note that these rules are occasionally updated by Disney, so be sure to check Disney’s website before you pack!

Disney World Packing Tips

So, now you know what you should and shouldn’t bring to Disney World, but there are a few more things you should know. Learn from our mistakes and follow these packing tips:

• Bring an extra pair of clothes to the park — maybe you accidentally rip your pants, maybe you sweat through your shirt, maybe you spill the chocolate sauce for your churro all over yourself…you’ll be thankful for the extra pair of clothes when there’s an emergency.
• Leave some room in your suitcase for all the souvenirs you’ll be bringing home.
• Pack chewing gum if you’re someone who likes to have it on hand — Disney does not sell it anywhere on property.
• Use packing cubes to organize your suitcase. You can find some really cheap options on Amazon.

FAQ

How much money should I bring to Disney World?

While credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere in Disney World, they’re not immune to technical difficulties. We suggest bringing some cash with you in case of emergencies, but there’s no need to have hundreds of dollars with you unless you plan on paying with cash.

Some guests also find it beneficial to purchase Disney gift cards prior to their trip as a way to budget for food and merchandise in advance. If you’re opting for this method, you’ll need to crunch some numbers before your trip to be sure you have enough gift cards with you. This is also a great way to save on your trip, as Disney gift cards can be purchased at Costco and Target for less.

What extra things do I need to pack for Disney World with toddlers?

You’ll probably need to pack a little extra if you’re traveling with little ones! Here are a few other things you should consider bringing for toddlers:

• Bottles and other toddler eating utensils (including a bib and toddler cup!)
• Snacks
• Extra clothes
• Stroller fan
• Stroller rain cover
• Hat and sunglasses
• Diapers and wipes
• Toddler sunscreen

All Disney World Resort hotels provide complimentary cribs upon request. Additionally, stroller rentals are available near the entrance of every Disney World theme park. So, you can leave these bulkier items behind!

What should I pack for Disney World if I’m visiting in the summer?

Central Florida gets hot and humid in the summer. So, be sure you’ve got plenty of lightweight clothing (including an extra change of clothes), sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and any other essentials to keep you cool in the sun. We recommend bringing a small portable fan to keep you cool in line and a personal water bottle that you can refill throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Can I pack light for Disney World?

It’s definitely possible to pack light for Disney World! The key to packing light is only bringing the things you really need. So, be sure you have an outfit for every day. And, remember not to overdo it on the extras like shoes, Minnie Ears, etc.

When should I start packing for Disney World?

We recommend starting to pack for your Disney World vacation about a week prior to your departure. This will give you plenty of time to plan your outfits and remember everything you’ll need while you’re there, especially if you’re packing for more than just yourself!

Well, it’s about time to get packing! We’ll be back with more Disney vacation tips, tricks, and updates, so be sure to stay tuned!

Comments

What is something that you always pack for Disney World and can’t live without? Let us know in the comments if there’s anything that you’d suggest leaving behind!