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What are the essentials for your Disney Park bag? If you are heading to one of the Disney Parks, it’s important to think about what you will need in your park bag. Your park bag is the bag that you will carry with you into the theme parks. Whether you are traveling with children or not, there are certain things that are always a great idea to have with you in the parks. However, with all of the walking around throughout the parks, it’s important not to go overboard with the packing.
The list I included here works whether you are traveling with or without kids. I added a few additional items that I always take when I have my kids with me. I am a mom of four kids so when we all travel together, I tend to take a bigger park bag. However, a small crossbody bag or purse would also work.
Must-Have Items for Your Disney Park Bag
Magic Bands/Tickets – This first one goes without saying. When you are staying at a resort at Walt Disney World, the Magic Band is a necessity at all times. It has your room key, dining plan, tickets, FastPasses, the option of linking a credit card, Memory Maker, etc. all included with it. If you are not staying on property, you will still receive a card with your tickets, Disney PhotoPass, and your FastPasses on it.
Cell Phone – A cell phone with a camera is another necessity. When you’re in the parks, the My Disney Experience app is so important. Whether you want to double check your plans, add more FastPasses or look at your latest pictures added to your Memory Maker, you need a cell phone to do all of it. If you have your camera ready, you will find that cast members will often take photos for you too.
Portable Charger – A portable phone charger is always good to have since you will likely be using your phone quite a bit in the parks. While there are a few places around the parks where you are able to charge your phone or other electronics, I find it much easier to carry one with me. Most are pretty compact and fit easily even in the smallest park bags.
Ponchos – Rain in central Florida is inevitable so if you want to avoid getting wet, ponchos and/or an umbrella are highly recommended. Even if you are visiting Disneyland, it does not hurt to be prepared. Furthermore, if you are planning on riding attractions such as Splash Mountain or Kali River Rapids, a poncho will be useful to keep you dry!
Sun Protection – Whether you are heading to Florida, California or another Disney Destination, sun protection is a must! I always carry sunglasses, some sunscreen and lip balm with SPF in my bag. You may also want to throw in a sunhat or other hat too, especially if you are traveling with little ones.
Autograph book w/ marker– If you plan to meet any of the many amazing characters on your trip to one of the Disney Destinations, an autograph book is another must-have item. I like to use the Sharpie markers that are retractable because it’s easier to have them ready for any characters that I meet. You can get these at many places throughout the parks, online or even make them yourself!
ID, Cash, Disney Gift Cards, Credit Card – In my opinion, it’s always important to have some kind of identification with you. I always like to have a small amount of cash just in case. Usually, when I am in the Disney Parks, I use Disney Gift Cards or the card linked to my Magic Band to pay for most things. However, I do carry one credit card with me just in case. Also, if you plan to utilize the benefits of the Disney Visa card, it must be presented at that time.
Hand Sanitizer – In my opinion, it never hurts to have a travel size bottle of hand sanitizer easily accessible. This is especially helpful with little ones who may put their hands on everything.
Snacks/Water bottle – Sometimes, you just need a little something to munch on as you go through the parks. If you are using the Disney Dining Plan, there are countless options. However, if you are not using the dining plan or just looking for something quick with little ones, having a snack and a water bottle easily accessible is sometimes priceless!
Zip-top bags – I cannot tell you how many times it has been helpful to have one of these bags. The uses are endless – from putting your phone in one while you ride a water ride to carrying that extra set of clothes or putting the dirty or wet clothes in after a food spill or water ride. I always take at least two zip-top bags with me.
When I am traveling with my kids, I always throw in a few extra items.
Extra Clothes – I use the zip top bags to store them and we are prepared for anything! Whether it’s a potty accident, spilled food or just being tired of the princess dress, I always like to be prepared. As my kids get older, this may become less necessary but right now, I have a toddler, preschooler, and two elementary age kids and I haven’t regretted it.
Diapers and Wipes – While you are able to purchase these items in any of the Baby Care Centers in the parks, I always carry extras. Whether it’s changing diapers or wiping off sticky hands after a snack, wipes are always a good thing to have on hand. Even when I no longer have kids in diapers or if I am traveling without them, I will bring some wet wipes with me just in case!
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