Everything You Need To Pack from Someone Who Has Been to Disney 25+ Times
Wondering what to pack for your upcoming trip to Walt Disney World? This one-stop guide includes a packing list, things for your backpack, and 50+ unique items that’ll help you save money, stay comfortable in Orlando’s weather, and improve your vacation. I have been to Disney World over 25 times and have refined my packing list so that I’m always comfortable and have what I need! (Updated January 15, 2021)
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links which means I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Packing For Comfort
PonchEar
Depending what time of year you’re visiting Walt Disney World, you can likely expect some scattered rain storms. Most Disney World packing guides suggest a poncho, but ponchos aren’t compatible with Mickey Ears and rain coats can be too heavy or bulky.
This is where PonchEar comes in! This brilliant invention is a poncho that was designed with Mickey Ears in mind so that you don’t have to remove your ears. With its clear design, you’re also still able to showcase your cute outfit! It has quickly become my #1 packing need!
You can purchase your PonchEar here and use my discount code DARBY10 for a discount (code expires February 15, 2021).
Thigh Society
Orlando is hot and humid, there’s no getting around that. Thigh Society are slip shorts, not shapewear, and come in several colors and lengths. I love to wear skirts and dresses while in Disney, but don’t want to risk any Marilyn Monroe moments getting on or off rides nor do I want to experience any chafing.
Thigh Society shorts allow me to wear whatever skirts and dresses I want without worrying about modesty or comfort. You can also wear them as bike shorts if you want! They always make it into my suitcase and are one of the essentials when packing for Disney World.
Hand Sanitizer
This one is pretty self-explanatory, especially during any COVID-era trips. No one wants to come back from the happiest place on Earth with a cold or any other virus. You can find cute Disney hand sanitizer holders, too, like this one that holds Bath and Body Works products!
Phone Charger
I don’t know about you, but I take a ton of photos on my iPhone and post to social media while I’m in Disney (comes with the territory of being a blogger, I suppose). So, my phone battery doesn’t last the whole day. I always make sure to pack a portable charger and retractable charging cord that clips onto my bag.
Plastic Straws
Disney uses paper straws and while I certainly commend the environmental choice, it makes drinking thicker beverages quite…unpleasant. I’m a fan of smoothies and milkshakes in the Florida heat, so I always make sure I bring plastic reusable straws with me. I have this set from shopDisney and they work perfectly well! Make sure to also a pack to keep them in after using them to keep your bag clean!
Backpack with Change of Clothes
Sometimes Splash Mountain is extra…splash-y or sometimes there are unexpected rainstorms. Or perhaps just too many outfits you want to wear! I like to bring an extra backpack with a change of clothes and rent a locker at the beginning of the day so I always have a change of clothes if needed.
Make sure to check out this post –> Getting Over the Disney Blues – Darby’s Diamonds
Packing To Wear
Sperry Shoes
You’re going to be on your feet a lot in Disney…like a lot so wearing comfortable shoes is imperative. I’ve tried many different types of shoes and Sperry Topsiders are always the most comfortable shoes I include while packing for Disney World. Their “sneakers” are my favorite, but I don’t think you can go wrong with any of their styles.
Converse
If I’m not wearing Sperry Topsiders, I’m wearing Converse! I have a pair of red Converse that are perfect for any traditional red and black Disney outfits. I also like that they are lace up so that I can attach my shoe buddies. But back to the Converse! The Chuck Taylor All Stars are such a classic and they’re my go-to Converse shoe–in fact, I think I’m going to purchase a pair in pink when I finish writing this!
Canoe Socks
So “canoe socks” isn’t the actual name of these socks but that’s what I like to call them because they look like canoes! But with shoes like Converse and Sperry’s, you don’t want your socks showing and you certainly can’t go without socks. I always pack several pair of my canoe socks, including an extra for the parks. You never know if you’re going to get soaked on Splash Mountain!
Pool Flip Flops
Packing pool flip flops is one of the only items I routinely forget to pack because I’m so focused on comfortable clothes and shoes. The Disney resorts have beautiful pools and they’re a great way to spend a rest day or afternoon if you need a break from the parks. So don’t forget to pack some flip flops that can get wet and worn around the pool!
What Not To Pack?
Just a quick note on what not to pack: don’t bother with an umbrella– that’s what your PonchEar is for (don’t forget my code DARBY10), a selfie-stick (they aren’t allowed), towels or sheets (Disney is very clean and provides you with plentiful towels), or costumes if you’re 14 and older and it isn’t a specific holiday event (Disney doesn’t allow it unless it’s for a specific event).
So, now you know…
Those are my absolute essentials when packing for Disney World! What’s something on your must-pack list? Did I miss anything that’s super important? Let me know below!
