With Memorial Day Weekend not too far away, we can almost taste summer—which means the summer Disney travelers will be flocking to the parks in no time. While it may seem like we still have time until summer vacation, true Disney Fanatics know it’s never too early to plan a trip to the parks.
School won’t be in session, but the Disney vacation crowds will be in full force. While you can’t control the wait times, you can control one crucial part of your Disney vacation: your packing list for the parks.
Even if your itinerary starts in May, Florida’s weather can be a bit wonky. Between afternoon thunderstorms and scorching sunlight, what you pack in your bag can make or break your vacation.
Here are the top five packing essentials for your summer soiree in Disney.
1. Portable Fan
We’re a big, well, fan of these. It can be impossible to hide from the heat, especially in parks with little shade like Animal Kingdom. A stroller fan for your kiddos (or just one for you) could help squash the swelter while you’re on the go.
2. Poncho
They might not be at the cutting edge of the fashion world, but rain ponchos will keep you from swishing around Magic Kingdom with sopping shorts. They’re also ideal for water rides like Kali River Rapids.
3. Hand Sanitizer
Any Disney World packing list is incomplete without hand sanitizer. With all the door knobs, high fives with Mickey, and Walt Disney World Monorail handrails, you’ll want to keep yourself and your family free of germs as often as possible.
4. Sunscreen
No one wants to leave a Park-Hopping marathon with a red-hot sunburn. Lathering on sunscreen before you hit the turnstiles is one thing, but keeping your skin protected in the Florida sun is another. Make sure you have plenty of lotion in your park bag.
5. Drinks
The lines to your favorite rides can stretch for what seems like miles, and you’ll need to stay hydrated while you wait. Pack a water bottle, Gatorade, Liquid IV, or any other hydrating drink so you don’t have to rely on buying them in the parks.
Disney vacations are a worthy investment, and navigating your favorite parks with a well-prepared bag can help you reap all the benefits. So grab your Mickey ears, autograph book, and Magic Band, and make the most out of your summer trip to Disney World.
What are your essentials for a summer Disney vacation? Let us know in the comments below!