What You Really Need for a Disney Trip

You’ve done all the planning for your upcoming trip and now it’s time to think about what to purchase for your Disney trip. You can scour the internet and find dozens of articles that tell you what to buy. This post is going to talk about the essentials that you actually need for a Disney vacation. 

My blog periodically contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra charge to you. Purchases made through them are greatly appreciated.

I’m going to break it down for you; what you need for the hotel, the park itself, and the clothing. You want to try and bring as much with you because as everyone knows the pricing at the parks is just plain ridiculous.

What You Actually Need for the Hotel

There aren’t many things that you need for the hotel. However, these items will definitely make your life easier during your stay. Hotel rooms are usually small so, you want to try & stay as organized as possible. The things listed below have helped keep the clutter down & your room looking clean.

1. Travel Hamper - This will help keep all your clothes off the floor. At the moment, Disney is still only doing housekeeping services every other day.
2. Surge Protector - This will increase the amount of outlets you have in one space. Making sure all those devices are charged on a daily basis super easy. 
3. White noise machine - Perfect for those nights when you just want to get some sleep. Or for a mid-day recharge/nap for the kids. 
4. Hanging Toiletry Bag - Keeping a hanging toiletry bag helps keep your bathroom and room clutter free.
5. Fabric and Multi Surface Sanitizing Spray - Just because it's Disney doesn't mean anything. I travel with these two items every single time, not matter where I go (family homes included). I'll spray everything down once we arrive. 

What You Actually Need for the Parks

As a mom myself, I thought about what items I would need as both a park goer & a mom. Remember, you’re in Florida, so the weather can change in the blink of an eye. I wanted to make sure I had all the essentials but also didn't want to lug around a heavy bag or backpack all day long. 

I purchased this super cute,  Mickey Themed bag, it's technically a diaper bag but it works for what I wanted to use it for. 

Here is a list that are definitely park essentials, some of these items are season dependent, and not everything is going in your park bag. 

Cooling Towels - This pack of 4 come in super handy on those really hot days while walking around. 

Ponchos - This pack of 10 should be enough to last you your entire trip. Pop a few in your bag (or have each person carry their own). 

Body Glide - Chafing is no joke...that is why I HIGHLY recommend the Body Glide line of products; for her, for him, for feet. 

Shoe Inserts - Walking is a serious sport while in Disney. On average, you will most likely be walking at least 20K steps/day. Wearing comfortable shoes is key as well as a little extra protection for yourself. 

Parade Blanket - lay this on the ground while waiting for any of the parades to start. Again, Disney is pretty clean but some people just prefer to not sit on the ground. 

Portable Charger - ABSOLUTE MUST! Who knows how long you'll be in the park/s for, so making sure your phone is charged is key. 

Water Bottle - I suggest a filtered one, you can usually ask for cast members to refill for you, or fill your own around the park. 

Air Tags or Tiles - There are so many good uses for these that it's crazy. For instance, if you have a stroller, stick one on there, cast members have a tendency to relocate strollers around ride entrances. You can also put them on your kids, or your luggage (airport woes, rights?!)

Glow in the Dark things and Bubble wands - This is a HUGE money saving tip. Bring these things with you so you don't have to spend an obscene amount for them once inside the park. 

Reusable Straws - This is more of a personal preference but always good to have on hand. 

USB Fan - perfect addition for any hot day. 

WANT A FREE DISNEY PACKING LIST? 

What You Actually Need for Clothing

Clothing to bring with you is honestly personal preference. If you are a Disney adult at heart, then you’ll obviously want to pack outfits that are themed to your park days. But, the below pieces of clothing are must-haves to ensure a great stay.

Sweatshirt - having a sweatshirt on hand is always a good idea for those cool Florida evenings. 

Cute but comfortable Sneakers - I highly recommend the Adidas Cloudfoam sneakers. I have had these for over a year now and they are by far my favorite sneakers to do just about anything in. And they are super cute & don't look cheesy. 

Hat - some type of sun coverage is a MUST  in Florida. This super cute baseball hat with pom-pom ears is perfect for your next trip!

Leggings or Bike Shorts - Comfort is key but being comfortable doesn't mean you don't have to look cute/trendy. Leggings and bike shorts are the perfect wardrobe essential when packing for a Disney trip. 

All of the above items are things that you should bring with you to Disney that you might not have thought of. I love discovering new things that will make travelling easier, share your tips and finds below in the comments!

Don't forget to download my FREE printable packing list to keep you organized! And while you're packing blast some Disney tunes to get you in the right mindset! Check out my Spotify playlist below, it has a wide range of all types of Disney songs. 

Happy packing and thanks for stopping by!