When it comes to Disney World packing, there are a handful of odds and ends that may seem small, but they can go a long way in making for a more magical, enjoyable trip.
Today, we’re talking about some small things I thought to bring with me that had a serious payoff for my trip. These items don’t take up too much space in your suitcase and they’ll certainly earn their keep.
Here are 8 things I’m really glad I brought with me to Disney World.
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A filtered water bottle
Most of the year, it’s really hot in Florida, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
And really, even if you happen to visit Disney World in one of the cooler months, you still do a ton of walking. So, it’s just as important to be sure you’re getting enough water.
Bottled water is ridiculously expensive in Disney. You can get free water at any counter service location, but not everyone loves the taste of Florida water.
So instead, invest in these inexpensive Brita Sport water bottles. They’re lightweight and come with a filter, so you can fill your water bottle up at any water fountain or bottle filling station.
A portable phone charger
The My Disney Experience App has always been a key part of Disney Planning and it’s become even more important in Pandemic Disney World.
This means you need your smartphone to check wait times, place your meal order, make a dining reservation, check into your hotel and more.
This also means it’s never been more inconvenient for your phone to die in Disney World.
There are outlets and charging stations scattered throughout Disney World. However it may not always be realistic for you to stay in one place long enough for your phone to charge.
Luckily, there are inexpensive portable charges that you can throw in your park bag to give your phone an extra charge while you’re on the go.
Check out this one to learn more!
Rain gear and Sunscreen
These two items are pretty standard for Disney travel, which is why I’ve combined them into one. But despite how standard they are, I’m always incredibly glad to have them.
Pop-up showers are very common in Disney World at any time of the year, but especially in the spring through the fall. Rain gear is very expensive to buy in the parks, so bringing your own is always advised.
Ponchos are great because they cover all of you, but lightweight umbrellas are good too if ponchos aren’t your thing.
And if it isn’t raining, it’s probably sunny. And because it’s Florida, sunscreen is a must!
It’s no fun to spend your vacation burnt, so make sure you bring sunscreen and apply regularly.
Blister patches
There’s a ton of walking that happens in Disney World.
As a result, it’s much more likely that you may find some extra friction between your feet and shoes has led to an unpleasant, uncomfortable blister.
And if you ask me, the only thing worse than getting a blister in the first place is then having to put those same shoes on the next day and walk even more. (Which is often what happens in Disney World.)
That’s where blister patches come in! They make next-day walking incredibly manageable and help your blister to heal as quickly as possible.
You can get them for the toes and for the heels.
Plastic baggies for water rides
Disney has its fair share of water rides and while they may be refreshing on a hot day, it’s not going to be good if your phone ends up wet.
That says nothing of the handful of other items that maybe floating around your bag weren’t designed to hold up in water.
Having baggies on hand in your park bag is an easy way to ensure the things that need to stay dry, stay dry.
Snacks
Disney has plenty of snacks you can buy throughout the park. If you’re like me, you may consider eating your way through Disney snacks an important part of your trip.
However, even if this is true, it’s a good idea to toss some easily accessible snack into your park bag to have on hand. This can be something like a granola bar, peanut butter crackers, or whatever easily transportable snack is your favorite.
Sometimes wait times get long, and the last thing you want is to be stuck somewhere and starving.
Not to mention the fact that with all the walking you’re doing, it’s highly likely that you might find yourself more hungry than usual.
Having extra snacks in your bag and hotel room so you don’t have to go hunting for something late is a smart move.
Seasonal allergy medicine
If you have seasonal allergies, it’s a good idea to bring your allergy medicine even if you aren’t currently suffering.
The conditions in Florida may not be the same as your hometown. I’ve definitely found myself struggling with my allergies in Florida when I wasn’t at home.
You can buy over-the-counter medicine on Disney property, but it’s a lot more expensive than you’d get off property, so it’s a good idea to bring it from home.
Extra room in the suitcase
I absolutely can’t leave Disney World without souvenirs, as a result, I always try to leave about 15% of additional space in my suitcase on my way down for the return trip.
If I don’t have enough additional space, I bring a bigger suitcase.
Alternatively, you can ship items you purchase during your trip home, however, I’ve found it to be more cost-effective to pay for the checked bag at the airport than it is to ship something.
But that’s something you’ll have to run the numbers on for yourself.
For more Disney World tips and tricks, check out the other Disney World Posts!
Sound off: What are you glad you brought to Disney World? Tell us about it in the comments!