Park-day bag essentials
- Park tickets / My Disney Experience app on your phone
- Photo ID and a credit card or MagicBand for payments
- Refillable water bottle (Florida heat is no joke)
- Portable phone charger and cable
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
- Sunglasses and a hat or cap
- Light rain poncho (cheaper than buying in-park)
- Hand sanitizer and travel tissues
- Small first-aid kit (bandages, pain reliever, blister pads)
- Snacks for between meals
Comfort for long days on your feet
You can easily walk 8–12 miles a day in the parks.
- Broken-in, comfortable walking shoes (plus a backup pair)
- Moisture-wicking socks
- Anti-chafe balm or powder
- A light layer for over-air-conditioned restaurants and rides
- Compact umbrella
Traveling with kids
- Stroller (or reserve a rental) for younger children
- Diapers, wipes, and changes of clothes for little ones
- Baby carrier for ride lines and shows
- Kids' sunscreen and hats
- Small toys or tablet for downtime and waits
- Autograph book and a fat pen for character meet-and-greets
- Glow sticks for nighttime (cheaper than in-park light-up toys)
- Familiar snacks and a sippy cup
Hot weather (spring & summer)
- Cooling towel or neck fan
- Extra sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Moisture-wicking, light-colored clothing
- Swimsuit for the hotel pool or splash areas
- Electrolyte packets to stay hydrated
Cool weather (late fall & winter)
- Layers — mornings and evenings can be chilly
- Light jacket or hoodie
- Long pants for cooler days
- Gloves and a beanie for cold snaps in December–February
Don't pack these (not allowed in parks)
Disney security will turn these away at the gate.
- Coolers (with limited medical exceptions)
- Selfie sticks and tripods
- Wagons (only certain stroller-style ones are allowed)
- Anything resembling a weapon, including toy ones
- Marijuana or CBD products
- Large suitcases or duffel bags
Frequently asked questions
What should you not forget to pack for Disney World?
The most-forgotten essentials are a refillable water bottle, a portable phone charger, sunscreen, a rain poncho, and comfortable broken-in shoes. Your phone is critical too — the My Disney Experience app holds your tickets and ride times.
Can you bring a backpack into Disney World?
Yes. Backpacks and bags are allowed and are checked at security. Coolers, glass containers, selfie sticks, and large luggage are not permitted.
Can you bring your own food and water into Disney World?
Yes. You can bring your own snacks, food, and a refillable water bottle. Loose ice and large coolers are not allowed, but small soft-sided bags are fine.
What shoes should I wear to Disney World?
Wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or sneakers — you'll often walk 8–12 miles a day. Bring a second pair in case the first gets wet from rain or water rides.
Build your own packing list in Park Jaunt
Park Jaunt gives every trip a customizable packing checklist — plus collaborative itineraries, kid-aware ride matching, budgets, and a live crowd calendar, all in one place.
See also our Disney World crowd calendar.