8 Things You Should Consider Bringing With You Into The Disney Parks

When planning a trip to Walt Disney World, there are certain things that you must bring. These things are essential to ensuring your Disney vacation goes off without a hitch. Here are my 8 things you must take to a Disney park.

8. Sunscreen

Florida’s nickname is the Sunshine State for a reason– it is very sunny. When planning a trip to Walt Disney World one thing that you must bring is some sunscreen. No one wants to get a sunburn while on vacation especially at WDW. Choose one that is preferably sweat proof due to the fact that Florida is also especially humid.

Tip: If you are using spray sunblock, be aware of those around you who may be sensitive to them! Also, remember to get the backs of your ears – nothing says “I went to Disney” like bright red ears!

7. A Camera Of Some Sort

Walt Disney World has some of the greatest photo opportunities of any where in the world. No matter if it is your first or 15th trip, you will always find something that you haven’t seen before that you will want to get a picture. Whether it is a point and shoot small style, a fancy interchangeable lens type, or just your handy dandy smartphone camera, whichever one you have with you at the perfect time is always the best one. We can remember our family trips in the early 90’s and my mom having to change out the film in her camera every 24 pictures. Can you imagine how many she would have taken with modern technology? It’s so much fun looking at the pictures after the trip and remembering all those wonderful trips!

Tip: If carrying a camera isn’t your style and your phone isn’t an option– definitely look into the Memory Maker! Included for Annual Passmembers, Memory Maker can be purchased at an additional cost for day-pass holders. This plan allows your group to grab professional photos all over the park, courtesy of Disney Photo Cast Members! 

6. Comfortable Shoes

We all know someone who has been to Walt Disney World and one thing that is commonly told is that it is very BIG and you will do a lot of walking. Therefore it is very important that you have a comfortable pair of walking shoes to lessen any pain that might set in due to the amount of walking you will encounter. Some people prefer a sportier type of running/walking shoe while others may enjoy more of a flip flop or sandal. The type of shoe may also be determined by the time of year that you take your vacation. Orlando can have hot, humid summers and occasionally cold winter evenings. The deciding factor should be a shoe that will give you the best opportunity to not think about your feet at anytime on your vacation. We also recommend taking breaks throughout your day to give your feeties a little rest!

Tip: Don’t forget to break in those shoes BEFORE your trip! Nothing steals the joy faster than blistered feet!

5. Extra Spending Money / Gift Cards

An enjoyable part of any Disney vacation is stopping by the gift shops to see the new souvenirs that are available. Mewly designed t-shirts, coffee mugs, commemorative pins– Disney gift shops have so many different types of collectibles it can be a bit overwhelming! With so many decisions, try prioritize the things you want most and take pictures of the ones you’re willing to wait on for the next trip, if they were still available. Budgeted a little extra spending money in your vacation plan for souvenir’s. It really helps to have an idea of how much you want to spend before you go and it helps prevent the shock at the register when the total amount you owe appears on the screen!

Tip: Not a fan of carrying cash or your bank card? Consider purchasing Disney gift cards before your trip (this also works as a great “savings” plan!). 

4. Sunglasses and/or Hat

Sunglasses are a must at Walt Disney World! The sun can be blocked from above by wearing a hat but the reflection off the ground and different objects around the parks can be very painful on the eyes. I remember on one of my family trips I had forgotten to bring sunglasses and I tried to tough it out. By the late afternoon my cheeks were in such agony from squinting so hard. I broke down and purchased some sunglasses from one of the gift shops. After that trip I never forgot to bring sunglasses ever again.

Tip: Budget to pick up a hat in the park. Then you will have a new souvenir to enjoy AND protect your face and eyes from the Florida sun!

3. Hearty Appetite

It is a widely know fact that while in Walt Disney World calories don’t count. Heh heh!! When on a WDW vacation it is encouraged to partake in as much of the delicious food and drink being served as possible. From counter service, to snack carts, to full service restaurants, WDW has some of the best eating establishments in the world. Each year around late September through early November, Epcot holds its annual Food and Wine Festival. This is a must do for anyone who appreciates the experience of trying new foods and drinks with culinary styles from around the world. The food is served in small portions so you can enjoy more than one serving from several different booths that are set up around World Showcase.

Tip: Remember how many miles you are walking each day while in the parks. Staying hydrated is truly important! Quick Service counters around the park offer free water to guests. With all those extra steps, we’re sure you’ll “walk off” that Mickey Ice Cream Bar in no time!

2. Communication Device

There are times while on a Walt Disney World vacation that you and whomever you’re there with might want to split up. It could be while shopping in one of the gift shops or someone might want to go back to the resort to take a nap. Whatever it might be it is a must to have some sort of communication with you. Most of us today have a cell phone however on really crowded days a signal can sometimes become hard to get. Another option is a 2 way radio or walkie talkie. This can be a quicker way of keeping in touch while in a somewhat close range of one another.

Tip: Having a smart phone carries new benefits at Disney Parks now. With Disney’s app My Disney Experience guests can view bus wait times, pre-order food, and add or edit FastPasses for the rides!

1. Patience

There are few things that can cause stress while on a Disney vacation, however it is human nature to get a little anxious in certain situations. Inclement weather, large crowds, closed attractions, all of these things can create a stressed state of mind while at Walt Disney World. Try to have patience. It’s not an easy thing to do sometimes. Take a step back and appreciate the fact that you are able to take this vacation and be at such a magical place with so many other people who are all there to have a good time just like you! It helps to keep things in perspective.

Know that the weather will get better, the attraction will open again soon, and the crowds are just other people there to do the same thing you’re doing– making memories and experiencing the most Magical place on Earth with loved ones! Your trip to Walt Disney World can be the experience of a lifetime but if you go unprepared it can lead to some real challenges.

Tip: Plan ahead and utilize all the technology available to you to ensure that your trip goes off without a hitch! Take time to enjoy each moment, these are the memories that will last a life time!

 

BONUS TIP: Consider planning and booking your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can trust like Mickey Travels. They’ll help you get the best Walt Disney World deal, share expert advice and their services are totally FREE! It’s genius!