5 Essentials You Should ALWAYS Pack for Disney World

Heading to Disney World is like stepping into a dream. It’s magical, thrilling, and absolutely exhausting all at the same time! Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, packing the right items can make all the difference. I’ve put together a list of must-haves that will help you stay comfortable, hydrated, and ready to tackle those long park days.

1. Stay Powered Up

Let’s start with your phone because, let’s face it, it’s going to be your lifeline while you’re navigating the parks. Between snapping photos, checking wait times on the Disney app, and coordinating with your group, your battery is going to drain fast. Pack a portable phone charger. I swear by FuelRods because you can buy them once and then swap them for fully charged ones throughout the park for free. It’s a real game-changer and much cheaper than buying one in the park.

2. Comfortable Footwear

Never underestimate the amount of walking you’ll do at Disney World. We’re talking miles here, folks. Do your feet (and your back) a favor and wear shoes that are made for walking. I learned this the hard way on my first trip, but I have sworn by HOKA sneakers ever since. They offer incredible support and really help you keep going when you’d normally want to sit down and take a break. Also, pack a pair of flip-flops or water-friendly sandals for those afternoon rain showers. Trust me, nothing’s worse than squelching around in soaked sneakers. Consider bringing along some shoe deodorizer spray or powder to freshen up your sneakers for the next wear.

3. Hydration and Heat Management

Florida heat can be brutal, especially in the middle of the day. To combat this, I always bring a high-quality reusable water bottle—Corkcicle bottles are great because they keep your water cold all day. Another pro tip? Freeze a few water bottles overnight and take them to the park. They’ll melt slowly and keep you supplied with cold water throughout the day. Additionally, consider packing some electrolyte powder or Liquid IV packets to add to your water. It’s a tasty way to stay hydrated and keep your energy up.

4. Sun Protection

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! Can’t stress this enough. The Florida sun does not play around, and sunburn can really ruin your magical experience. Apply good sunscreen to all exposed areas, including the tops of your feet, if you’re wearing sandals. Reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re sweating a lot or get wet on rides like Splash Mountain. Sunglasses and a hat are also great additions to your park day outfit to protect your face and eyes from the harsh sun.

5. First Aid and Comfort Items

Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like painkillers, Imodium, sleep gummies, and earplugs. You never know when a headache will strike or when you’ll need a little help getting to sleep after an exciting day. I also recommend bringing along some Salonpas or Icy Hot patches. These are lifesavers for soothing muscle pains after a long day of walking and standing in lines. They’re not just for athletes; trust me, your calves, back, and neck will thank you.

Lastly, don’t forget a light, breathable rain poncho. Florida weather can be unpredictable, and you don’t want a little rain to slow you down. With a poncho, you can continue enjoying the attractions while others might be running for cover.

Packing these essentials will help ensure that your Disney World trip is as enjoyable as possible. Remember, it’s all about making the most of your time in this enchanted place without letting the little things like sore feet or a dead phone battery get in the way.