Yay you’re heading to Disney! Whether you are going to Disneyland or Disney World, there are a few staples that are a must have for a great park experience. I know there are many, many people who will tell you what to and what not to bring to the Parks, but my goal is to narrow it down and give you guidance on what has been, in my experience, essential to have a good time at Disney.
As someone who has had the opportunity to go to both Disney Parks upwards of 50 times, I have had both good and bad experiences, some of which were shaped by things I forgot to bring with me on my trips.
There are 10 main things that I find are essential to having an amazing experience in the parks. So to be the most helpful to you I will give a list (with links included!) to guide you so you can get the most out of your trip no matter what time of year you are going!
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10 Essentials For Your Disney Trip!
1. Powerbank
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- 100% a necessity for any trip to the parks. From checking ride times to snapping great pics, your phone battery will get drained very quickly. That is why it is super important that you have a powerbank to give your phone a little extra juice to keep it alive for the whole day. There are so many options out there when looking for powerbanks but a there are a few options that are tried and true which I would recommend
Fuelrods
- These are a great option when going to the parks because there are kiosks where you can not only buy these powerbanks but also trade a used one in for a fully charged one for FREE. This is a great option if you want a small portable charger plus you don’t have to worry about it dying and having no back up.
- Buying them on amazon is a bit cheaper than buying them in the parks and you can get a pack of two for only forty bucks! (link to buy fuelrods on amazon)
- Mini Portable Chargers
- These are my favorite for bringing into the parks because they go directly into your phone, no cords required. This allows for easy access, and you can even put your phone in your pocket while charging. I
love these because, despite their size, they pack a punch when it comes to charging. In my experience, this small charger will charge from 0% to at least 90% (even if you use it while charging). I have actually brought these mini portable chargers with my on my own trips to Disney and they have kept my phone in the green! (link to buy mini portable chargers)
- These are my favorite for bringing into the parks because they go directly into your phone, no cords required. This allows for easy access, and you can even put your phone in your pocket while charging. I
- 100% a necessity for any trip to the parks. From checking ride times to snapping great pics, your phone battery will get drained very quickly. That is why it is super important that you have a powerbank to give your phone a little extra juice to keep it alive for the whole day. There are so many options out there when looking for powerbanks but a there are a few options that are tried and true which I would recommend
- Portable Fan
- This is definitely a make or break during the summer. It gets pretty hot at the parks (both in California which is more of a dry heat and in Florida which is more of a wet humid heat) and a fan is one of the best ways to combat the uncomfortableness that comes with walking and waiting in lines in the sun.
- O2COOL Portable Fan
- This fan is my absolute FAVORITE. I have had one for years and I have taken it with me on all of my summer trips. I have a battery powered one, and I have to say that it works wonderfully. The air flow is very strong, and the battery lasts forever (and I mean that, I literally don’t remember the last time I changed the batteries). It may not look like much, but I promise it is amazing. The fans come with lanyards so you can put it around your neck.
While I was researching this fan, I found that they also have a rechargeable option now, which may be enticing to people who are traveling and are worried about the battery aspect of the fan, so I have linked it below along with the battery powered options.
- This fan is my absolute FAVORITE. I have had one for years and I have taken it with me on all of my summer trips. I have a battery powered one, and I have to say that it works wonderfully. The air flow is very strong, and the battery lasts forever (and I mean that, I literally don’t remember the last time I changed the batteries). It may not look like much, but I promise it is amazing. The fans come with lanyards so you can put it around your neck.
- O2COOL Portable Fan
- This is definitely a make or break during the summer. It gets pretty hot at the parks (both in California which is more of a dry heat and in Florida which is more of a wet humid heat) and a fan is one of the best ways to combat the uncomfortableness that comes with walking and waiting in lines in the sun.
- Apparel
- What to wear to Disney is a question that I’m sure is prevalent on many people’s minds when planning their vacation. As someone who has gone many times, in many seasons, the truth is there is not one real answer to that question. However, I definitely recommend wearing whatever is the most COMFORTABLE for you. That obviously can depend on the weather, but you can never go wrong with a t-shirt and jeans (or shorts if it’s summer).
- Here’s my take on matching outfits…DO IT! A family vacation to a Disney Park may not be something that you get to do very often and having a shirt is a great way to commemorate it (as well as look cute in photos). I know there are a few negative Nacy’s out there that may be against the matchy-matchy vibe (my boyfriend being one of them ha-ha) but trust me it is cute, and it is a great way to remember an amazing once-in-a-lifetime trip.
- if you’re not into the t-shirts that say “family vacation 20XX” then another option I love is just doing a generic t-shirt that everyone can love. A shirt I think works great for this is a mickey t-shirt, it’s simple, c
ute, and will look great on everyone. Amazon has a great collection of t-shirts for the whole family and what I really love about it is that you can look for men’s, women’s, and youth t-shirts of the same design, which allows the whole family to match without you having to search the whole internet to find similar shirts.
- if you’re not into the t-shirts that say “family vacation 20XX” then another option I love is just doing a generic t-shirt that everyone can love. A shirt I think works great for this is a mickey t-shirt, it’s simple, c
- Reusable Waterbottle
- This is something that is very useful because you’re going to be walking all day and it is important to stay hydrated. Throughout the parks there are waterbottle refill stations which are a wonderful way to not only keep your waterbottle full but also avoid paying the high prices for bottled water.
- If you’re looking for any recommendations, my go to watebottle is a 24 oz Owala. I think this is a good choice because it is well insulated, so it keeps water cold, it has a built-in straw (removable), and it fits in my loungefly backpack (sometimes a little maneuvering has to be done but it gets in there ha-ha). I think that depending on how hot it is and how much water you usually drink you could get a smaller or even a larger waterbottle, but 16-24oz should be fine, especially because you can refill it.
- Comfortable Shoes
- If nothing else, the MOST IMPORTANT thing you need to have is comfortable walking shoes. Remember, you will be on your feet ALL DAY. Having shoes that are comfortable to walk in is imperative to having a good day at Disney.
- I personally don’t recommend sandals because you will be walking in large crowds, and your feet are at a high risk of being stepped on or run over by strollers. It can be done, and I have seen people wear them but it’s not a choice I would make for myself or encourage others to do.
- It’s important to note that no matter what, if you’re on your feet all day, they will be tired, and no shoe is going to make it feel like you didn’t walk the ten miles that you did. However, with the right shoes, at least you won’t be limping your way back to the car
- Typically, when I go to the parks I wear comfortable running or walking shoes that are breathable with padding and some foot support.
I am a big fan of Adidas shoes in general, and I find their running shoes to be very comfortable. I have worn them on many trips to the parks and have yet to get any blisters from them, I find that there is typically a decent amount of padding in the shoe and on the heel which I enjoy.
- This is a link to a good pair of Adidas running shoes which I find pretty comfortable
- Also, although this is at a high price point, I loveee lululemon running shoes. They are my go-to park shoe and although they are expensive, I think they are worth the price. I have worn them on my past 5 park trips (walking 25,000+ steps per trip) and have had no complaints, so definitely recommend.
- If nothing else, the MOST IMPORTANT thing you need to have is comfortable walking shoes. Remember, you will be on your feet ALL DAY. Having shoes that are comfortable to walk in is imperative to having a good day at Disney.
- Sun Protection
- Whether you’re planning to visit the parks in California, Florida, or anywhere else, the sun is not something to take lightly. You are going to be outside pretty much the whole day, and that will definitely take a toll if you don’t have some type of sun protection on or with you.
- Sunscreen
- This is probably a bit of a no-brainer, but sunscreen is super important, especially if you are visiting a Disney Park in the summer. I know a lot of people probably already have their go-to sunscreen, but I would like to advocate for a brand whose sunscreen not only works phenomenally but also is non-hypoallergenic and reef-safe.
- Badger Mineral Sunscreen
- These sunscreens are all creams, so you have to spread it with your hands but trust me they work super well. This is a go to sunscreen for my family and I (no anyone I know) has ever gotten a sunburn using it so I feel like that is a testament to its effectiveness ha-ha. Plus, they come in 30, 40, and 50 SPF!
- These sunscreens are all creams, so you have to spread it with your hands but trust me they work super well. This is a go to sunscreen for my family and I (no anyone I know) has ever gotten a sunburn using it so I feel like that is a testament to its effectiveness ha-ha. Plus, they come in 30, 40, and 50 SPF!
- Badger Mineral Sunscreen
- This is probably a bit of a no-brainer, but sunscreen is super important, especially if you are visiting a Disney Park in the summer. I know a lot of people probably already have their go-to sunscreen, but I would like to advocate for a brand whose sunscreen not only works phenomenally but also is non-hypoallergenic and reef-safe.
- Sunglasses
- I find sunglasses the solution to so many issues that arise during my Disney days. From keeping me from squinting in family photos, accidently glaring, or even hiding the occasional eyeroll, sunglasses are a key to staying calm, cool, and collected.
- Hats
- A good hat is a must have for sure. I’m sure you’re thinking about the classic “Disney ears” that you see everyone wearing and I would be lying if I said that on most of my park trips, I do wear those, a hat is truly a much better option if you are really trying to beat the heat or prevent a sunburn.
- Don’t fret just because you aren’t wearing mickey ears you can still look magical and opt of some sort of Disney themed hat. I am personally HUGE fan of Winnie the Pooh (ask anyone that knows me its true) and I have the cutest hat (link) that I love wearing to the parks. Below are some hat options that I love which would go great with any outfit.
- Sunscreen
- Whether you’re planning to visit the parks in California, Florida, or anywhere else, the sun is not something to take lightly. You are going to be outside pretty much the whole day, and that will definitely take a toll if you don’t have some type of sun protection on or with you.
- Ponchos
- This is a must have especially if you plan on going on any water rides (or Florida]). Ponchos are a great way to keep yourself and your valuables dry while also getting to go on those fun water rides at the Parks. While you can buy ponchos at the parks, be warned they are pretty expensive and not the best quality.
- I recommend getting some cheap single use ponchos before your trip. I find the best place to get these is amazon because you can get a lot of them for a pretty low price. Durability is not really something you should worry about too much because its only job is to keep you dry for the ride not for a whole day. I’ll add a link to some well-reviewed, reasonably priced, ponchos [here].
- First Aid
- From blisters to small scrapes, anything can happen at Disney and while they do have first aid stations, it is much easier and faster to have some simple first aid with you (just in case).
- I typically carry a few Band-Aids and mole skin (for cuts and blisters) but bring whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. As I mentioned they do have first aid stations so if something more serious happens you should head there.
- A cute way to add some Disney magic back into your day after getting a cut or scrape is by using some Disney band-aids to cover up the wound. There are tons to choose from, my favorites include the classic Mickey and Minnie, Princesses, and Star Wars.
- Autograph Books (+ sharpies!)
- An autograph book is a must have if you are planning to stop and meet characters! While they do sell these at the parks there are also tons of options online
- Also, don’t forget to bring a Sharpie or some sort of pen so the characters can sign your book. While a ballpoint pen will probably work, a larger sharpie will be better for characters like Mickey and his friends to be able to sign their names!
- Backpack
- Not to be forgotten, a backpack is truly a vital piece of equipment on your trip to Disney. From carrying your waterbottle, to snacks, tickets, first aid, and more, the right backpack can sort of make or break your experience. There are many different types of backpacks you’ll see on your trip but there are two main types that will help pertain the most to you depending on your needs.
- 1. Full-size Backpack
- This will be best if you are bringing a lot of stuff, have a large family, or are planning on only brining one bag and trying to fit everything into it. It is important to note that Disney parks do have lockers near the entrance that you can pay for and leave your bags in while you enjoy the park. However, if you do not plan on using this then you will be carrying that large backpack around for the ENTIRE day so make sure that you bring a comfortable one.
- My personal favorite is the NorthFace Jester which is pretty comfortable and holds pretty much everything you could need.
- This will be best if you are bringing a lot of stuff, have a large family, or are planning on only brining one bag and trying to fit everything into it. It is important to note that Disney parks do have lockers near the entrance that you can pay for and leave your bags in while you enjoy the park. However, if you do not plan on using this then you will be carrying that large backpack around for the ENTIRE day so make sure that you bring a comfortable one.
- 2. Mini Backpack
- If you haven’t heard of them, Loungefly backpacks are a go-to for many Disney fans and you’ll see them sold as well as worn by lots of people in the parks. Though they are small they fit a surprising number of things and aren’t too hard on your back (take that part with a grain of salt). There are tons of styles no matter what character you love, there is sure to be a loungefly backpack for them. They’re extremely good quality and last a long time, they aren’t cheap but definitely worth the price.
- I usually only bring this backpack with me when I go to the parks, however if I am going with my family (5 people) someone else usually brings a larger backpack to carry things like jackets and snacks.
- I would say that if you are planning on going with your significant other and eating in the parks, this backpack should hold everything you need. I recently went with my boyfriend, and we comfortably carried waterbottles, powerbanks, snacks, ect. and I had no issues carrying it for the 15+ hours we were there.
- I included some images of ones I think are cute to provide some inspiration and I’ll also leave the links below in case you would like to take a look!
- If you haven’t heard of them, Loungefly backpacks are a go-to for many Disney fans and you’ll see them sold as well as worn by lots of people in the parks. Though they are small they fit a surprising number of things and aren’t too hard on your back (take that part with a grain of salt). There are tons of styles no matter what character you love, there is sure to be a loungefly backpack for them. They’re extremely good quality and last a long time, they aren’t cheap but definitely worth the price.
- 1. Full-size Backpack
- Not to be forgotten, a backpack is truly a vital piece of equipment on your trip to Disney. From carrying your waterbottle, to snacks, tickets, first aid, and more, the right backpack can sort of make or break your experience. There are many different types of backpacks you’ll see on your trip but there are two main types that will help pertain the most to you depending on your needs.
Well, those are the 10 things that you need to get before your next trip to a Disney park, I hope you found this list helpful and that your upcoming trip is filled with magic and lots of happy memories. Thank you for reading and I hope you come back to anamariexdisney for other tips and tricks for your next Disney vacation!
Stay tuned for more posts and I’ll see you soon, lots and lots of love,
Ana marie <3
Category: disney tips and tricks