Packing for Disney World

Packing for vacation is so exciting! But it can also feel very overwhelming. I’ve put together a a look into my thought processs for you so you’ll be well-prepared when you arrive at your destination. When I pack, I like to make my bed and stack each day together so I can get a visual of all the things I’ve packed. Include socks, underwear, pool gear, pajamas and shoes. This really helps me be sure I’ve gotten everything together. Then I proceed to use packing cubes for everything. I like to unpack in the hotel room and use my suitcase for dirty clothes.

Things you’ll need to start packing:

  • Suitcase: I like a soft sided zipper case that rolls. This is the one I use.

  • Toiletries bag: to carry all of your personal items and to have a separate bag you can keep in the bathroom.

  • Day bag: Backpack or weekender tote for all your essentials while traveling, make sure it fits your purse and everything you like to have with you if you’re flying.

  • Packing cubes: totally optional but I love using these to make unpacking and packing multiple people in one suitcase simple and organized.


Make a checklist!

I’ve created a printable packing list HERE!

First, decide how many days of clothes you’ll need for your trip.

  • Travel day clothes, will I want to change when I arrive? Will I need a swimsuit? Pack these things in your smaller backpack/tote This way when you get to your hotel, you can have your suitcases delivered to your room in case it isn’t ready.

  • If you will be in Orlando during the hot months, you should definitely pack an extra shirt and underwear for each park day. Its so nice to be able to put on fresh clothes!

  • Maybe you like to wear nicer clothes for dinner, or matching shirts.

  • Pool day: Swimwear, cover-up, pool shoes/sandals, sun shirt, hat, goggles, small pool toys, no floats allowed.

Next, take inventory of what you already have in your closet and what you may need to buy to fill in the blanks. I’m not a person who buys all new things for a trip, but maybe you are!

Use my handy packing list to help you get organized!

Finally, make a list for your park bag. Everything you’ll want with you at the parks.

Park bag

I like to pack as little as possible in my park bag. It just gets heavy and annoying to carry stuff around all day. So, anything that is available in the parks, I do not bring. I use a small belt bag or a mini backpack.

In my bag?

  • Battery charger for devices (I use fuel rods, since they can be exchanged in the parks but This One works great as well!)

  • loop ear plugs

  • chapstick

  • wallet w/ID

  • sunglasses

  • ibuprofen

  • battery powered fan

  • wipes

  • feminine products

  • small deodorant

  • 14 oz or smaller water bottle that I pour my free water cups into when I’m going on a ride.

  • ziplock bag (so incredibly useful for so many things!)

If you have small kids, you’ll need all the essentials, diapers, wipes, snacks, water bottles. But some extra things you may want to consider:

  • stroller fan

  • cooling towel

  • sunscreen

  • small games or toys for waiting times

  • hat

  • glow sticks for night time

  • Large ziplock with extra clothes, doubles as wet bag for soiled/wet clothes

  • small first aid kit

  • poncho for rain

  • ear protection: earplugs, headphones for loud sounds

  • Small ziplocks to save food from meals for later

Remember, there are things available at the parks, if you need them. You don’t need to bring everything, just the things that are necessary. Its so easy to get overwhelmed thinking of things you “might need” but you’ll most likely end up just lugging around a bunch of stuff you never even access. Keep it simple!

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Breakfast at Magic Kingdom