Although we have been to Walt Disney’s incredible Florida parks at least 25 times in the past 15 years, we still need to have a Disney World packing list every time because there is so much to remember. One of my biggest disney and packing tips is packing right saves money.
If you don’t pack right you find yourself spending a whole bunch of extra money on overpriced items that you really don’t want to pay for.
Thus, we have created this packing list to help you save time and money on your Disney World Vacation! With this list, you’ll be set to have a blast. Plus, we have a free printable Disney World packing list to easily keep track of everything you need to pack.
The Necessities
There are so many things you need for your Disney World Packing List! Here is a break down of all the necessities you need and some you might not have thought of.
Women’s Apparel (one week of Disney World)
If you are packing for a week, here is a breakdown of what I typically put on my Disney World packing list. If it is winter add an extra pair of jeans and a couple of sweaters or jackets.
- 5-7 Shirts
- 2-3 shorts
- 1 pair jeans
- 2 sun dresses
- 2 lightweight jackets or sweatshirts for restaurants
- 7 pairs of undies
- Bras
- 2 pajamas
- 1-2 swim + cover up
- Toiletries
- Mickey ears
- Medicine/ vitamins
- Sandals
- Comfy Sneakers (Check out my Favorite ones for Disney)
- Park Bag (Backpack/ Fanny pack for parks)
Men’s Apparel (one week of Disney World)
- 5-7 Shirts
- 3-4 shorts
- 1 Pair of Jeans
- 1-2 short sleeve dress shirts
- 1 lightweight jackets or sweatshirt
- 7 pairs of underwear
- Toiletries
- 2 pajamas
- 1-2 swimsuits
- Sandals/ Flip Flops
- Comfy Sneakers
- Medicine/ vitamins
More Necessities to Pack
- Wet Wipes
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hand Sanitizer
- Wet Wipes
- Lip Balm
- Band Aids
- Medication
- Ointment
- Cash & Credit Cards
- Tickets (Get Discount Tickets Here)
- Camera
12 Packing List Must Pack Items (You Probably Didn’t Think of)
Let’s continue on with some items which might seem excessive or a bit crazy, but trust me, they are so worth it. Here is quick list, if you want more details on why we love each item click on the link and it will scroll you to more info in that item.
Portable Parade Blanket
If you are planning on hitting up a parade at Magic Kingdom, watching Fantasmic at Hollywood Studios, or even as a little cover for your little one at night, this portable blanket is perfect.
Simply click it to your backpack or stroller and unpack it when it is time to sit back and enjoy the parade without having to sit on the ground stepped on by millions of people. Once the parade is over, it is super easy to smush it back into the bag it comes in.
Portable Battery Charger
If you are heading to Disney World, you are most likely going to use your phone quite a lot. From pictures to the My Disney Experience App to check out wait times or make reservations, your phone gets a ton of use.
Get a portable battery charger that will provide a few charges so you can charge multiple devices. This one is by far my favorite charger. It plugs right into the wall, has the charging cords attached to it so no dangling cords & it charges your phone fast. (There is a less expensive version of this charger. It does not give as many charges but it does have the convenient cords attached to the device.)
Expandable USB Wall Charger for your Hotel
This 6 port USB power is perfect to charge all your devices while back in the hotel room. We use it to charge our phones, camera batteries, portable charger, and all the kids’ devices. Since we have 5 kids we actually pack 2 of these bad boys on our personal Disney World Packing List. Check it out here!
Reusable Water Bottle (big money saver!)
One of my favorite Disney World Tips is you can get FREE WATER all day long. If you walk up to any quick-service dining restaurant, simply ask for a cup of ice water and voila, FREE Water.
Now if you are like me, you might not like the flimsy cup that you get with the water.
Thus, I bring a reusable water bottle. This way, my water stays colder longer, too. This Embrava bottle is my favorite, it’s leak proof and keeps the water very cold. After 5 waters at Disney World you will have made your money back.
Disney Magic Bands Bit Belts
If you are staying on property, you will be sent your Disney Magic Bands prior to arriving at Disney World. *Pro Tip: Pack the Magic Bands in your Carry On Bag.
I highly recommend purchasing Bit Belts to help prevent your Magic Band from falling off. They are super cheap and will save a lot of future frustration
(Also, Check out 13 Amazing Things to Know About Your Disney Magic Bands!)
Bug Repellent
When you arrive at the Disney World parks, often times you will see signs for FREE Bug Repellent. If you don’t have any take advantage of this. I prefer to pack my own as there are plenty of times where we are not near those booths.
This one is my personal favorite as it uses all natural ingredients and we have never been bitten with it on which is amazing since I am a bug magnet. Check current prices here!
Stroller
A stroller is an absolute must if you have a child 5 or under as Disney World is miles and miles of walking. You do have the option of renting your stroller at Disney World, learn more about this here. Whatever you choose, just be sure to have a set plan with little ones!
My personal preference is renting a stroller from Kingdom Strollers. It is so much cheaper than renting at Disney World, they deliver the stroller and pick up right from your hotel.
**Update** Now Kingdom Strollers is available for pick up and drop off at their onsite location at the Orlando Airport. Simply hop off your flight, head to their location at Terminal A and pick it up.
You can save up to 50% off stroller rentals versus using an in park stroller. Plus, you can have the stroller once you exit the park which is nice, so you don’t have to carry your kids to the hotels (trust me I have been there). Check current prices here!
What to Pack to Be Prepared for the Constantly Changing Weather
The happiest place on Earth can get downright hot and muggy and rainy and it can change in an instant. If you are heading to Disney World especially in the summer months consider these items essential to your Disney World Packing checklist
Stay Cool with Cooling Towels
Don’t forget cooling towels. I repeat, don’t forget. These are a game changer! We got these for a trip to Disney World in Florida during the hot part of the year. The parks get sweltering. All we had to do was wet the towels in the morning when we left. When they got warm, all we did was snap them and like magic, they were cool again.
**Pro Tip** Rinse the towels and let them dry flat and they will be in perfect shape for the next day
Umbrella for the Sun AND the Rain
There are two things you can pretty much guarantee with a trip to central Florida; sun, and rain. This is true in any season. We have brought all sorts of umbrellas from the oversized golf umbrella (terrible to pack) to the cheap ones you buy at Disney World that last for a couple of weeks.
The best umbrella to pack is this one from Amazon. I have had it for years and use it often, whether it’s to block the sun or the rain. Plus, it’s super easy to pack.
If you are looking for one to cover you while pushing the stroller, there is this amazing umbrella that attaches to your stroller and covers you. Check it out Here!
Ponchos
If you don’t like carrying around an umbrella then pre-order some ponchos before you head to Disney World. Otherwise, when the downpour comes you will find yourself soaked or shelling out $8 a pop for some cheap thin ponchos. Instead, grab some quality ponchos that will actually keep you dry before the trip. Check current prices here.
These are also great for water rides like Kali River Rapids….. if you don’t want to get wet.
Stroller Cover
There is nothing worse than getting off a ride and finding that your stroller has been completely soaked by a sudden rainstorm. This will save your day! We use a stroller cover to keep our stroller dry which prevents us from dealing with a soggy stroller and grumpy kiddo. Check current prices here!
Backpack or Backpack Diaper Bags
If you have little ones, you have to grab a backpack diaper bag. It will save your back and is so much more convenient. It is so much easier when you have an all-in-one bag for the kids. Plus, there are some really cute ones out there! Check out a full list of the top ones here.
Spray Fan
From March to October, you will see these spray fans all over Disney World and let me tell you something, they aren’t too cheap. I think it’s around $25.00 now. Grab one on Amazon for around $15 here.
This $15 one also acts as a humidifier, so it’s great in case anyone gets ill. If you’re worried about luggage space, check out these mini fans!
Other weather-related items to add to your Disney World Packing List
- Baby Powder
- Light Sweater/Jacket
- Board Shorts
Just for Fun Items to add to your List
The list wouldn’t be Disney without the Fun Items. One of my kids’ favorite things about Disney World was the little accessories they got along the journey. And I definitely would say to pick up some souvenirs for your kids. However, there also some things you can bring along, either from past Disney trips or some that you can purchase beforehand to save a little dough.
Glow Paint (Absolute Must-Have for the Animal Kingdom!)
One of our favorite things we have ever done at Disney World is painting the kids with Glow Paint at Pandora in Animal Kingdom. All of Pandora glows at night and your kids will too with this paint.
They do not sell the paint at the park so you have to pre-purchase it from Amazon before your trip. Here is absolute the best one. It does not run and the kids did not even notice it on their face. Here is the link to the highest rated glow in the dark face paint on Amazon.
Automatic Bubble Wand
If you have kids 7 and under, bubble wands might as well be considered a Disney World essential as they are a great way to keep them entertained.
Whether they’re in the stroller or a long line, the bubble wand keeps your kiddo entertained for hours. It also prevents your child from crying for the ones they see all over the park, and that’s a nice bonus.
Here are some great ones available on Amazon. *Avoid getting ones with a trigger as Disney does not allow these.
Princess Dresses & Character Costumes
Our girls loved dressing up for Disney World. Even up to the age of 9 my girl liked wearing her princess costume. In addition there are some really cute costumes for boys, however it Disney World. It is not cheap.
I highly recommend adding these items to your Disney World Packing List. There are some really cute ones available at Shop Disney and often times they have large sales.
Bippity Boppity Boutique DIY
Along with the princess costumes, you might want to consider bringing along some items to create your own Bippity Boppity Boutique. This boutique is in Magic Kingdom, and gives little girls and boys fairytale makeovers.
It comes with quite the price tag though, so a good compromise is to give your little ones a makeover in your resort room! They usually do hair in a high bun and add some fun hair pieces in.
Here’s a great video to teach you to do the princess bun, however, you could also do a simple sock bun if that’s more your speed. You’ll also need to top the hairstyle with some magic fairy dust (glitter) & a tiara.
There are also some great Disney makeup sets and nail stickers to make your daughter feel extra special. We usually just do a tiny bit of blush and lipstick! Check out all our favorite items here.
Disney Family Shirts
My husband absolutely loves matching shirts, in fact, he loved it so much he wrote a full article on the best Matching Disney Shirts. I hate to admit it, it’s really a great time when we all have some sort of unique matching shirt and it adds a lot to the trip. Some of ours favs are here from SchmidtsTees and they ship fast!
Custom Minnie Ears
There are tons of options for unique Minnie Ears but we personally think that the resin ones from EmsResinEars are pretty fantastic! You can grab a pair here on Etsy.
Matching Snapback Hats
Okay, seriously, could these be any cuter? I cannot wait for Jack to get a little bigger so I can grab these for Mike and all the boys. You can order a pair here on Etsy.
Disney Masks
With the current status of the world custom Disney face masks are a great option! We love these ones from Pretty Stitches by Jess. You can order from her here.
More Fun Items to Pack
- Mickey Mouse Ears (Adorable Ones Available on Etsy)
- Glow Sticks
- Autograph Book & Pen
- Toy Cars
- Disney Trading Pins
- Light up Toys
Snacks to Add to Your Disney World Packing List
Since a Mickey Pretzel can cost you an arm and a leg, I always pack a carry-on bag filled with snacks for the trip. Disney allows outside food into the parks, so this is a great way Another option is to get snacks from the Walmart down the road as you can order online and pick it up saving you tons of time. *You can read about that service here.
Easy Snack Items to Pack
- Granola Bars for Energy
- Dried Fruit
- Trail Mix
- Uncrustables
- Pretzels
- Lollipops
- Goldfish Crackers
- Fruit Snacks
- Fresh Fruit
Must Haves for Disney World with a Baby
Now, Disney World with a baby is a whole different ball game. Here are some of the absolute musts if you’ve got a little one coming along for the fun. A couple of items that you should really think about are items for the stroller.
Pack N Play
Depending on where you are staying you might want to consider bringing a Pack N Play for your little one. Check out this list of the 10 best options for home & travel for Pack N Plays!
Stroller Fan
If you are heading in the springtime or summer I highly recommend bringing a stroller fan. It’s a nice simple way to help keep your little one cool. You can snag one here.
More Must-Have Disney World Packing Items for Baby!
- Bottles & Binkies
- Formula
- Bottled Water
- Baby Food
- Baby Snacks
- Diapers & Wipes
- Burp Cloths & Bibs
- Multiple Changes of Clothes
- Blankets
- Extra Layers
- Baby Toys
- Blankets
Disney Must-Haves For Hair
Florida weather is no joke and it really has an effect on our hair! Check out our favorite hair products to take and add to your Walt Disney World packing list!
The BEST Anti-Humidity Products
I love a loose beach wave but my hair always falls flat. So, I prep my wet hair with Living Proof 5-in-1 Perfect Hair Day, then prep my roots with Root Lift then blow-dry. This created great volume.
Next, lightly mist your hair with Living Proof No Frizz Instant De-Frizzer Spray. Then you curl with your curling iron or wand (this one is my fav). Once finished you break up curls and use Sexy Hair Texture Mist and apply more De-Frizzer (if needed).
For the Face
Florida is sticky most months of the year. I use Matte Primer from NYX and to pair it with a matte finish foundation. Then you set the look with loose powder and really press where you know you need it most. This worked like magic and I just carried blotting papers to touch it up on the go.
Map of Stores Near Disney when you forget something on your packing list
Hey, even the most prepared can forget something. Here is a map of stores near Disney World to grab groceries, souvenirs, or any other item off your packing list.
If you need help planning and booking your magical Walt Disney World vacation, contact our friends at Best Day Ever Vacations. They are truly Disney Experts, and not only are their services FREE, but they will save you both time and money.
Planning a trip to Disney World – Start Here!
Now that you have finished packing with our ultimate Disney packing list, you are ready to start planning. We went ahead and listed a bunch of resources for you to starting planning your trip to Walt Disney World.
Planning
Park Tips & Tricks
Disney Special Events
Disney Springs & More
Pin for Later – The Ultimate Disney World Packing List [Over 50 Must-Pack Items]
*This site does contain affiliate links. This means I might make a very small percentage if you choose to click through and purchase. You pay the same price either way. All the products I listed are products we truly love and would recommend to friends and family.
Disney World Packing List FAQ’s
What should adults pack for Disney World
ID, Tickets, Wallet, Credit Card, Magic Band
Comfortable Shoes
Reusable Water Bottle for Free Water
Backpack /Daypack
Poncho
Portable Cell Phone Charger
Camera
Download our Printable Packing List
What can you NOT bring into Disney World
Here are some items you might be surprised are not allowed inside Disney World Theme Parks
Selfie Sticks
Bubble Guns (Only Bubble Wands Allowed)
Wagon Strollers
Tripods over 6′ tall
Plastic Straws (Inside Animal Kingdom)
Balloons (Inside Animal Kingdom & Water Parks)
Are Backpacks Allowed Inside Disney World Theme Parks?
Yes, as long as they are not bigger 24″ (61 cm) long x 15″ (38 cm) wide x 18″ (46 cm) high. You can also bring food inside the park, just no glass bottles or alcohol.
Can I Bring Food & Water in the Parks
Yes, we stock up at the local Target and pack snacks for the park. Just make sure you are not bringing a cooler or something that exceeds the bag size (24″ (61 cm) long x 15″ (38 cm) wide x 18″ (46 cm) high). And of course, no alcohol can be brought into the parks.
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Please don’t recommend a bubble gun. I bought the ones recommended. DIsney just took mine away because it has a trigger. My kids are in tears now. Please take that off of your post.
Hi Rosalie,
I am so sorry. I reached out to Disney after I received your comment. They let me know thety recently changed their bubble gun policy and now only allow bubble wands. I was unaware of the recent change as the bubble guns we posted were very similar to the ones they used to sell. I have updated the site now to have bubble wands. Thank you for letting me know and sorry about the little one’s tears.
This was a great help. This is our first time going. The bit about the stroller will really come in handy!! We have 7yr old, 4 and 2. Also the part about water bottles and snacks!! Thanks!!
I’m glad I could help. Have a great time on your trip.
I thought that the wagon in your recommendation would be perfect for my families upcoming trip, but then I read on the Disney Website that wagons are not permitted in the parks. 🙁
Hi Megan,
We just used the wagon on our last trip in November. You can not bring a pull wagon, but one like the one we are recommending where you push the wagon you can bring.
Yyou can not bring any type of wagon in the park.. pull or push
Hi Sarah,
Ah Yes, Disney just changed that on May 1st. Wagons are no longer allowed at all.
Spray fans are a must when visiting the parks.
OMG spray fans yes I would not survive Disney with out one? thanks
I’m going to Disney next month and I am crazy busy planning so if there are any other tips that would be great if you could let me know
Hi thank you for this Blog❣ I k ow ig will be a total lifesaver! One question where can I find stroller guidelines because I plan to use my own stroller. It’s pretty sturdy, but I would hate to get there and they say sorry, but you can’t bring that in.?
Hi Nadia strollers can be no wider than 31″ and no longer than 52″
Super helpful!
This is the kind of content I love! Thank you so much!
I leave in one week for vacation and always feel asthough I am forgetting something! Thanks so much and I am already remembering a million things I need to pack
If you and your kids are Star Wars fans, bring Star Wars T- shirts and, on the day you go to Hollywood Studios, have them have “bobbles” in their pockets. The storm trooper cast members walking around will single out your kids and comment on their shirts! Jawa cast members will ty to barter with your kids and they’re looking for silly items. Small dollar store items like marbles or nuts and bolts work.
Thats a great tip. Thank you.
Sooo many people under-estimate the intensity of the sun when visiting Florida