Last Updated on August 13, 2025
It’s always exciting when my family is heading for a Walt Disney World vacation at what’s often dubbed “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” With four theme parks, two water parks and amazing hotels, Disney World creates enchanting experiences and unforgettable memories.
Though visitors usually do a good job of securing their favorite hotel reservations, park reservations (when needed), and dining options, the anticipation and thrill of a family Disney getaway can often result in some items left unpacked in the frenzy of trip prep.
Of course, you can always replace these items when you arrive at your destination, but, if you don’t have your own transportation, replacing them can get costly.
Let’s be honest, a Walt Disney World vacation will definitely put a dent in your wallet, especially if you’re bringing a family. It seems to get more expensive every day. Whether you’re a first-time or a more-experienced Disney traveler, forgetting certain items can lead to discomfort, unnecessary spending, and play a part in making or breaking your overall experience.
From a seasoned Disney visitor, here are suggestions for items you shouldn’t forget to bring. Be sure to add them to your packing list, and do it sooner than later. Many apply to other seasons of the year you’re vacationing in Central Florida.
Portable Phone Charger (Power Bank)
Whether you’re a newbie experiencing Disney for the first time or returning for all the new and changing attractions, you’ll definitely be snapping endless photos. But in WDW, your phone can also be used for mobile tickets, Lightning Lane reservations, allowing guests to skip the standby line and join a much shorter line, last-minute Disney dining reservations, and advanced dining orders for fast food restaurants. You don’t want your phone battery to die in the midst of that perfect photo opportunity.
Though you can purchase “FuelRod” portable batteries at kiosks around the park, they are not cheap and a starter kit currently costs $30.
Refillable Water Container
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on Florida’s hot and humid days. All four main Disney parks have refillable water stations for your insulated water containers. If you want ice, quick-service food locations will gladly provide.
Though the parks (unfortunately for the environment) still sell plastic bottle water for $4.00, that can add up quickly if you don’t bring your own reusable water bottle for consistent hydration.
Sunscreen
There’s a reason they call Florida the Sunshine State. Summers are especially hot and humid, and the sun is direct and damaging without proper sun protection. I’m not going to recommend the appropriate sunscreen, but I will say that anything less than SPF 50 is virtually worthless. Even on a cloudy day in the spring or fall, don’t believe the sun rays aren’t intense enough to cause skin damage.
Hat and Sunglasses
Speaking of the sun, you’ll also want to protect your eyes and head from the intense rays. Again, if you have to buy these items in the parks (which is fine if you’re looking for another cool Disney hat), these items can be expensive. You’ll also want these items if you’re heading to a Disney water park or even lounging at your hotel pool on a free day or an afternoon break from the sweltering heat.
My travel checklist always includes one or two hats and an extra pair of sunglasses. Those rides have a way of sending hats and shades flying. If you’re like me, you manage to lose or break at least one pair of sunglasses on a Disney vacation.
Cooling Towels
Disney parks can be hot even if the weather isn’t blistering. Reflective surfaces and areas lacking shade can create uncomfortable temperatures. Bring in the cooling towel- heavenly on a hot day. They are lightweight, compact and super portable. Simply dip in water to provide 30-60 minutes of instant relief.
They can be used again at the gym, the beach, backpacking, and more.
Handheld Fan
I used to think it was silly when I saw Disney guests walking around with a portable handheld fan. It reminded me of work colleagues who had these at their desk when they were sweating their way through menopause.
Then, on one blistering hot Disney day while waiting in a long line for a major attraction and melting like an ice cream cone, a friend of mine took hers out and asked if I wanted to try it. After that, there was no poking fun. These USB rechargeable battery gems offer instantaneous relief with their cooling gentle breezes just when you need it most.
Hand Sanitizer and Wipes
Theme parks have germs. Lots of germs. If you’re in contact with hand rails, bathroom stalls, ride seats, and even restaurant menus, you know hundreds have touched these before, so why not give yourself a little extra protection?
A travel-size sanitizer fits great in a day bag and adds an extra layer of health protection and peace of mind.
Blister Balm and Band-Aids
It’s guaranteed you’ll do a lot of walking in the Disney parks, possibly up to 10 miles a day. No matter how comfortable your shoes are, that constant friction against your socks and tennis shoes can easily end up in an uncomfortable blister. If you do end up with a blister and have a blister balm or band aids with you, it will be a day saver for sure.
Rain Poncho
Sure, you can also pack a small umbrella, but if a thunderstorm comes up – which they often do – and the winds are intense, that umbrella can soon be turned inside out. My family always packs lightweight rain ponchos for many reasons. It rains all the time in Orlando, especially during the spring and summer months. Even on what appears to be a sunny day with bluebird skies in the morning, afternoons usually bring at least one short afternoon shower or downpour. And ca-ching if you have to buy them in one of the Disney parks!
These ponchos are also great for water rides like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom with a big drop at the end and Kali River Rapids in Animal Kingdom where you’ll definitely get soaked.
Water-Resistant or Waterproof Backpack
For the very same reason you want to pack a rain poncho, a lightweight, durable backpack that folds up into a little pouch takes up virtually no space when packing. If you want to protect your electronics during a rainstorm or don’t want to pay for lockers on the water rides, a water-resistant or waterproof backpack comes in handy. Having a waterproof pouch for storing valuables or some Ziplock bags for anything you don’t want to get wet adds a bit more protection.
