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Many people prepare for their trips to Walt Disney World or Disneyland by packing the basics like comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and park tickets. However, there are some less obvious but equally essential items that can significantly enhance the experience. Here's a list of 10 items you might not have thought to bring:
Your Bag:
The size of your bag depends on many things, how long your day is going to be, the weather, your purpose in the park, etc. You can bring a tote bag, your disney Loungefly mini backpack, a Jansport backpack or your designer LV bag.
Whichever bag you choose for your day, you will still need essentials for your Disney day in the park.
Portable Fan: Especially during the hot and humid months, a small handheld or neck fan can be a lifesaver while waiting in lines. Some fans take batteries and some come with charger cables to plug into an external battery back
External Battery Pack: With the reliance on the My Disney Experience app and frequent photo-taking, phone batteries can deplete quickly. An external battery pack ensures you won't miss out on capturing magical moments. Disney parks also carry Fuel Rods which are sold on property at vending kiosks for $30. These are cylindrical reusable batteries that you can swap for a new one for free. The $30 fee comes with a hard plastic carrying case and a very short cord. These batteries can charge 1 phone for 1/2 a day.
Reusable Water Bottle: Not only is this eco-friendly, but staying hydrated is crucial in the Florida heat. Many quick-service locations will provide free iced water if you ask, so you can easily refill your bottle. Disney parks also have water fountains that have bottle spouts to refill your bottle. Certain water bottles will keep your water cold for up to 16 hours, so make sure your read the label on your water bottle.
Moleskin or Blister Bandages: Even the most comfortable shoes can cause blisters after a long day of walking. Moleskin or special blister bandages can be a foot-saver. Regular bandaids will work as well but it may be replaced more often than moleskin or a blister bandage.
Hand Sanitizer or Mini Spray Bottle of Alcohol: Washing your hands before and after eating is essential to not getting sick during your vacation. Sometimes, its not that easy to find a bathroom (even though there are many bathrooms in and around the park), hand sanitizers and a quick spray of alcohol on your hands works just as well.
Ziplock Bags: These are great for storing wet clothes after water rides, protecting electronics during sudden rain showers, or keeping snacks fresh. Ziplock bags come in handy for so many different things that this item should just be an "Essential" in any travel bag.
Lip Balm: I used to not be a believer in lip balm until I came home from a Disney vacation with chapped lips from the sun and being dehydrated. Dehydration is a whole different topic of conversation however, the sun will cause sun damage on your lips. Licking your lips throughout the day is not the same thing as hydrating them and keeping them protected. Pack the lip balm!!
Travel Sized Over-The-Counter Medications: These are handy when you suddenly come down with a headache, muscle pain, stomach ache or any normal ailments that we all get randomly. Let's face it, we don't really know where the First Aid Building is at any Disney Park (if you do, kudos!!)
Extra Money For A Locker: It's great for storing purchases or shedding layers as the day warms up. Each person in your party can take turns paying for the locker during your vacation and it's so much easier that carrying everything in your hands or stuffing everything into your backpack that's already full of your "essentials." Just don't forget to stop by your locker at the end of your Disney day to empty it out. Set an alarm!!
Travel-Size Anti-Chafing Balm or Powder: With the heat and humidity, chafing can become an uncomfortable reality. Applying a balm or powder can help prevent this. Baby powder doesn't really work but I found that stick deodorant will work if you're in a bind.
Hats and Sunglasses: Do not forget your hats and sunglasses!! Your eyes will thank you at the end of the day, especially if you're used to squinting all day because the sun is in your eyes!! Remember to take off and stow your hats and glasses when riding the attractions!!
Reusable Utensils and Reusable Straws: I know!! I know!! Why would you want to bring your own utensils and straws when Disney provides them?? Well, if you're worried about the environment, that shouldn't stop when you're on vacation. First of all, those paper straws that are provided doesn't even come close to working well and sometimes, yes sometimes, quick service restaurants wil be out of that utensil that your really need to enjoy whatever snack or food you've been craving all day. Disney sells these reusable items on-property or in the parks so you can enjoy them again and again throughout your whole trip and more!! It take 2 minutes to wash them out and dry them in the bathroom. The Earth will thank you!
A Light Sweater or Longsleeve: Sometimes, even in the summer (but rarely) it will get a bit chilly when the sun goes down. That light sweater or longsleeve will keep you comfortable during the fireworks show, Fantasmic!, or even just the tram ride to your car or your hotel. Sometimes it does get a little chilly during the Sit Down Reservation Lunch or Dinner you booked at your favorite place. I mean, unless your budget allows for buying a hoodie or a zip-up during your Disney Day (at every park), I think this would be a great idea to store in that locker youre going to share with your party anyways.
By packing these lesser-known essentials, you can make your trip to any Disney Park even more enjoyable and be prepared for any situation.
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