Packing for a Disney vacation can be a bit overwhelming. I’m sure you have all the basics covered, but how about those things that can take you to Disney Packing Pro status?
We have a list of 7 overlooked items you should have in your bag before heading to Disney.
You’ll be glad you did!
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We gathered up some adorable Disney-themed items we hope you will find helpful with your Disney Packing!
Hey Hey!
I’m being extremely unproductive today because I have been glued to the #DisneySMMC hashtag all morning.
Today is the start of the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration, and I am having serious Disney withdrawals.
So, the best way to combat that AND be productive…
Write about Disney!
This time last year, we were getting our Disney countdown chains ready for our own Walt Disney World vacation.
Since the kids were born, we have taken them each year. (Even as babies and toddlers)
Last year was our first time going during the busy Spring Break season. We were thisclose to doing it again this year, but decided we love our time around Thanksgiving/early December and changed our plans.
Disney during the holidays is a must-do!
That means it will be nearly two years between trips this time…
I don’t know if we’re gonna make it!
Disney Packing
Because we have been to Walt Disney World so many times, I would say we have more than a few tips to offer.
Also, because we are not doing our own Disney packing, I’m going to live vicariously through this post and all your trips until our own arrives in the Fall.
Not the Basics…
Now, we’re not talking those items on everyone’s list…
- good stroller
- sunscreen
- comfortable shoes
- etc…
We’re going a bit deeper and talking about all those overlooked items that you may not remember to add to your Disney packing list.
These are the things that you’ll be the most glad to have when you get to Walt Disney World.
Also Read our other Disney posts!
Also Read: Packing Tips for Packing a Family of Four in One Suitcase
7 Overlooked Items You Need When Doing Your Disney Packing
Safety Items
A big concern in crowded theme parks is safety. There are a few things we recommend to keep everyone together and safe.
Color Coordination
This is one you see a lot in the parks. Matching shirts aren’t just a cute fashion statement. They help you quickly scan crowds and find your group members faster.
During a school field trip to the zoo, I had our kiddos all wear red hats from the dollar store and it was a lifesaver! Or at least, a sanity saver.
Emergency Contacts
In case anyone does get separated, it is important to provide your kiddos with the ability to contact you or tell someone else how to contact you.
Our kiddos are just at an age where they can begin to memorize our phone numbers. Regardless, I wouldn’t count on them being completely composed and error-free in a stressful situation.
I just found these Kids’ Safety Bracelets from Mabel’s Labels and I squealed with joy and had to have some! We put them on before the airport for our Walt Disney World 2019 trip.
Good news! They now have even more amazing Silicone ID Labels as well. A must-have!
You can customize them with whatever information you’d like from allergies to emergency contacts. They just stick right on and you can tear them off when you’re done.
It’s genius!
While you’re picking up some Kids’ Safety Bracelets, grab a Travel Label Pack from Mabel’s Labels with name labels and luggage tabs! Make sure to snag them at 10% off all labels with code KRISTIN10!
Tip: They also have adorable Bag Tags, and we use the mini labels for everything!
Where are my leash kids at?
This is controversial, but I couldn’t care less.
I was a leash kid since the moment I thought it was a fun game to dart toward a busy street and have my parents chase me.
I never questioned having one for my kiddos. It’s just that extra reassurance that you’ve got them even if they get pulled away.
I trust my kiddos to listen and behave, but I don’t trust anyone else. I also understand that busy crowds are full of confusion and stuff happens.
We had these backpacks for our kiddos when they were little.
We have even attached a cheap leash to larger backpacks as they’ve gotten older. They loved them and like that they are able to keep their own snacks or activities inside.
Many of you guys even found this Mickey Mouse harness, that is sooo cute! How perfect for some piece of mind on your Disney trip!
Snacks
Did you know you can bring your own snacks and lunches into the Walt Disney World theme parks?
You can, and you should!
We all know most kid problems can be prevented or solved with well-timed snack breaks.
There is also nothing worse than kids and parents having a meltdown while looking for a place to grab a bite to eat.
We keep Pringles Sticks, Dum-Dums, applesauce, apples, oranges, etc. close at hand. Anything that doesn’t have to be refrigerated is very easy.
However, we also like to bring in full-blown lunches if we’re able. The times when we can keep sandwich makings in the room and pack them up for the parks definitely make for a smooth day.
Cooler or Lunch Bag
In addition to the snacks, pack a small cooler or insulated lunch bag in your suitcase.
This insulated Mickey Mouse backpack would be amazing!!
This can be an easy thing to overlooking in your Disney packing at home, but it will absolutely come in handy once you’re on your way.
Filling up a small cooler with a few items for traveling is a great idea and makes it easy to remember.
Even if you don’t, placing a small insulated bag in your suitcase means you’ll be able to have the option of packing fresh snacks while you’re there. We were so happy to have it after ordering kids meals while at the Magic Kingdom because we kept our sides and waters for later.
Even if you just keep your water bottles in there during very hot days, you’ll definitely be glad to have it.
Water Bottles
You can find ice water available just about everywhere you go in Walt Disney World.
However, that doesn’t mean a disposable cup with a straw is always the easiest way to go.
Refillable water bottles with leak-proof tops just make life that much easier when you’re juggling crowds, kids, and more items than you can carry.
That disposable cup can’t be thrown in a backpack at a moments notice, but the water bottle you fill up can.
They’re also just easier to drink from when you’re on the go and you can hand them to the kids without a problem.
Small Toys and Activities
There is so much to do in Walt Disney World, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t downtime when a distraction is welcome and necessary.
We hardly go anywhere without a couple small activity books, little toys, or books to read.
This is just a necessary travel tip for kids.
Even when packing for a day at the parks, bring along a good collection of small activities.
Our kiddos whip these out on the bus rides, during long lines, or just when they need a bit of a break.
Distractions are always a good thing.
Some easy activities to bring anywhere
- Small books – it doesn’t hurt to keep it Disney themed either
- Just a couple small toys without too many pieces – we love to have some Disney Tsum Tsums for the kids to open and play with on trips.
- Activity books – our kids always love these because they usually have a variety of activities to try
- Multi-colored pens – these pens are easier than crayons or markers and you only have to bring one per kid
- Flashlight or glow sticks – these are the best to have on hand as nighttime rolls around!
For more ideas for little Disney-themed toys or activities, check out our post on Walt Disney World with Toddlers.
Extra Bag
This one is often overlooked, but I can tell you it helps A LOT!
When loading up the stroller or getting ready to head out to the parks or to explore, throw an extra bag in one of the bags you have packed.
I love a drawstring bag because they’re small and easier to carry, and this Mickey Mouse one comes in a set of two! We saw many of these around the parks.
Many of you even found this set of 2 Minnie Mouse and Mickey Mouse bags, this would be perfect for our family with a boy and a girl!
Or, plop an almost-empty backpack on your back.
You may not think you’ll need it, but you will be so glad to have it!
Things accumulate during the trip, or even during the day. An extra bag that is easier to carry than a shopping bag is so handy.
As things accumulate in the stroller, or you can’t keep all the shopping bags uncomfortably on your wrist, you will be happy to have it!
One of our readers recommended bringing an extra outfit to the parks. This is a very smart idea! Anything can happen and, if you need an extra set of clothes, chances are you’ll also want this Mickey Mouse wet bag for the old outfit!
Wipes
I don’t care how old the kids are… have you ever regretted having a package of wipes on hand?
No way.
With all the food and dirty hands, wipes will always come in handy.
Don’t forget to pack a small package for your trips into the parks, and a larger package for your trip in general.
You’ll never regret it.
When is your next Disney vacation?
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This is Amazing ! So many great tips ! Our FIRST Disney Trip with the kids is Fast Approaching, and I need to start getting Organized! Thanks so much!
I’m so jealous! You’re going to have the best time. If you find your suitcase is extra heavy, be careful with it and let me out when you get there! 😀
If this all seems like a lot, remember that the locker rentals are reasonable. Also, I recommend using a stroller for kiddos who are “too old for a stroller”. When our daughter was 6 we rented one of the Disney strollers and it was incredibly helpful. Disney is a lot of walking and she held out more having those breaks and it gave us a chance to put our stuff.
For sure! We always rent a stroller or bring two umbrella strollers. We will probably do that for a couple years yet – our kiddos are 5 and 6.
We took disposable cameras (do they even make them anymore?) and gave them to our kids so they could photograph Disney World from their point of view. It was great to see things from their perspective! Our son was 5 and there were lots of pics of cool rocks, people’s waists, Buzz Lightyear…it was priceless.
How cute!! I remember taking pictures with a disposable camera when I visited Disney World in Jr. High. Those were the best!
I totally agree with putting wipes on the list. And a spare outfit. I had a child throw up all over just as we pulled into the parking garage. But with a quick clean up and a change of clothes, the rest of the day went on without a hitch.
Oooh, Rachael! That is a good one. An extra outfit is a must. Great tip!
Hello,
I am a first timer. My big question is if you are carrying all these items with you in Backpacks and it is time to get on the ride, where do you put the backpack while everyone is on the ride? I understand stroller parking, but if I am going to get on a rollercoaster, then I don’t want my bag to fall out while upside down. Please illuminate. Thank you.
Hi Elisa!
This will be our first year without a stroller to leave the bag with, so I understand your concern. Most of the rides at Disney World are pretty tame and your bag will fit on the seat between you and the other passenger or at your feet. There aren’t any rides that go upside down, but you can always lock a strap around your leg if you’re worried about your bag on a faster ride. There is usually plenty of room and you’ll see many others doing the same thing.
I’m so excited that you are a first timer! Are you planning a Disney trip soon?!