Let’s face it – packing for any vacation is a chore. Packing for a Disney trip may seem downright daunting, especially if you’ll be visiting for more than a few days. There can be a lot to consider when it comes to stuffing your suitcase – from the weather and special events during your stay, to your accommodations and vacation goals.
Don’t worry! I’ll be sharing tips and tricks for how I make the packing process easier in this article! I’ll also share what essentials I pack, as well as some extras to keep in mind.
You’ve booked your Walt Disney World vacation with plan some MAGIC, made your park pass reservations, secured your advanced dining reservations, and you’re ready to go… until you have to pack your bags.
Where to start?
I always plan out my days before making a list. This helps me determine how many days to pack for, as well as what I need for each day. Then I make my list. Don’t forget to plan and set out your travel wear!
I use the notes app on my phone to make my list for two reasons:
1. I can easily add to it whenever I think of something else to bring
2. I have it handy to make sure I have everything when it’s time to leave
Here’s a basic rundown of what I like to have in my suitcase, carry-on, and park bag
Suitcase | Carry On | Park Bag |
Shirts, shorts, undies | Phone, iPad, laptop | MagicBand, ID |
Socks, extra socks | Chargers, headphones | Battery pack, cables |
Minnie ears | Prescription meds | Chapstick, hand sanitizer |
Bathing suit, coverup | Wallet | Sun protection, rain jacket |
Flip flops, slippers | Sweatshirt | Empty water bottle, Mio |
PJs, sweats, Spirit Jersey | Snacks | Gum, pain reliever |
Toiletries, sunscreen | Park bag | Cooling towel |
Once I know how many outfits I’ll need, I like to plan them! I pull out all my Disney shirts, decide which shirts best match my plans for the day, then add coordinating Minnie ears.
I also consider any special events I’ll be attending and other vacation goals – like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and taking a day to relax by the pool and grab lunch in Disney Springs – to make sure everything makes it into my suitcase.
What are the essentials?
These are the items I bring every time I visit Walt Disney World!
Good shoes and extra socks – wear shoes that you’ve already broken in
Comfortable clothes – wear what makes YOU comfortable
Sunscreen and sunglasses – protect your skin and eyes from the bright Florida sun
A rain jacket or poncho – stay dry on water rides and in rainy weather
A refillable water bottle – stay hydrated on your flight, in the parks, and in your room
A battery pack – chances are you’ll need to recharge your phone at some point day
A small backpack or belt bag – carry everything and keep your hands free in the parks
What are the extras?
These are items that I don’t need but having them makes my visit even better!
Flip flops and slippers – for walking around the resort and my hotel room
A sweatshirt or Spirit Jersey – for the cooler months or late nights
A cooling towel and hats – for the summer months
Gum – they don’t sell it in the parks
Liquid IV and Mio – for added hydration and better tasting fountain water
The plan some MAGIC Packing Process TM
I bet you’re thinking “that’s… a lot – a lot to do, a lot to bring, a lot to remember.” I promise it’s not as much as it seems, especially if you have a process in place. Here’s mine.
Once my list is made and my outfits are picked out, getting everything packed is a breeze.
I blast some Disney tunes to get excited
I grab an empty laundry basket and collect everything on the list
Since everything I need for a trip is usually all over the house, I find it much easier to pack – and avoid getting overwhelmed – if I compile everything beforehand
This ensures that I’m not forgetting anything or taking things I really don’t need
I grab my suitcase, carry on, and park bag and pack everything away
That’s it! That’s the process! The prep work makes packing your bags piece of cake.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some tips & tricks to make the process even easier!
Use packing cubes – organize and compress your clothes and other items
Don’t bring shampoo, body wash, etc. – Disney hotels provide these essentials
Nest items – you’ll be surprised at how many socks can fit inside a pair of shoes
Last, but not least
Here’s my favorite piece of advice: forgetting something isn’t the end of the world!
From Disney gift shops to Amazon packages delivered right to your hotel, there are plenty of ways to get ahold of an extra t-shirt or the toothpaste you left on your bathroom counter. The friendly Cast Members at your Disney hotel can help you find any essentials you may have missed, as well!
Not a list person? Book travel with me and get a FREE packing checklist as part of your travel guide!
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