Disney adult, mom of 6, vlogger for The Lee Crew. Find tips, tricks & inspiration for your Disney vacation no matter the size of your family or age of your kids.
Packing for a trip to Disney World with kids can feel like a daunting task, but with a little preparation, you can ensure a smooth and magical vacation. Here’s your ultimate guide on what to pack for Disney World with kids, featuring essential items to keep everyone happy, hydrated, and entertained throughout your visit.
One of the most critical items on your packing list should be a portable phone charger. Your phone will be your lifeline for navigating the parks, checking wait times, taking photos, and staying in touch with your group. I highly recommend this portable charger. It has all of the plugs within it, so no need to remember other plugs. It’s thin and compact so easy to keep in my bag while my phone is charging. My kids also steal it regularly to charge their various devices.
You can also get Fuel Rods in the Disney Parks. While I find these don’t charge as much, you can exchange them in the park and not have to worry about charging them yourself. Plus, once you’ve purchased the initial kit, you can exchange them at stations around the park for free. You can purchase the Fuel Rod in the park for approx $30, or grab this 2-pack on Amazon for less. (Both cases you can swap within the parks).
Save money and keep your kids from getting hangry by packing a soft cooler bag filled with snacks. It’s easy to lose track of time in the parks, and if there’s a wait for a full meal, having snacks on hand is a lifesaver. Clip your cooler bag onto the stroller for easy access and mobility. Include a mix of healthy snacks and treats to keep everyone satisfied.
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the Florida heat. Bring a stainless steel water bottle to keep your drinks cold and prevent spills. You can get free water from quick service locations and water fountains throughout the parks. To ensure you stay extra hydrated, pack some Liquid IV packs. These hydration multipliers are perfect for replenishing electrolytes and keeping everyone energized.
Keeping your stroller organized is a game-changer. Invest in some stroller hooks and a caddy to hold all your essentials. This setup will help you access items quickly without rummaging through bags. I love the Petunia Picklebottom Caddy as they have Disney versions that add a little magic to your stroller. I also love these stroller clips for holding water bottles, bags, etc. You can add more magic with the large Mickey Stroller Clips, too. To see a detailed look at my stroller setup, check out my YouTube video.
A comfortable stroller is essential for navigating Disney World with kids. If you own a stroller that meets Disney’s guidelines, bring it along. It will be more comfortable than the ones available for rent at the parks and is free to fly with. A good stroller offers a space for your child to nap, rest their legs, and hold items like water bottles and snacks. Note that wagons are not allowed unless for special needs with approval, so check the dimensions of your stroller to ensure it complies with Disney’s guidelines.
Disney World involves a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. This is not the time to be cutesy—opt for function over fashion. Make sure to test your shoes on walks before your trip to prevent blisters. Your feet will thank you after a long day at the parks.
Pack a change of clothes and a wet bag for each of your kids. Disney World has splash pads and water play areas to help cool off, and kids can get messy or wet from rides and attractions. Having a spare outfit on hand will save you from having to buy a new one in the parks. A wet bag will keep the rest of your belongings dry and organized.
An activity bag doesn’t have to be huge but should contain a few small items to keep your kids entertained while waiting in lines, doing rider swap, or taking a break in a restaurant. Our go-to items include coloring books, a pad of paper, an LCD writing tablet, and a few Hot Wheels cars. These little distractions can make a big difference in keeping your kids happy and occupied.
Stain wipes are a must-have for keeping your kids’ outfits looking fresh, especially those adorable princess dresses and special Disney outfits. Be prepared for melted chocolate ice cream stains and other messes by having stain wipes handy. They’re a quick and easy way to clean up spills and keep everyone looking their best. My favorite (that have saved me many times) are Miss Mouth’s Messy Eaters Stain Wipes travel pack.
One of the fun aspects of planning a trip to Disney World is coming up with family-themed outfits. While comfort should always be your priority, creating themed outfits can add a bit of magic to your trip. Stay true to each kid’s personality and include them in the planning process. My kids loved helping come up with themes and family outfits, making the experience even more exciting. Whether you go for matching t-shirts or coordinated colors, involving your kids will make them feel special and part of the adventure.
For more tips on what to pack for Disney World, especially during the summer months, check out my blog post on Disney Summer Must-Haves. This guide includes additional items to help you survive the heat and make the most of your trip.
Packing for Disney World with kids requires some planning, but with this ultimate guide on what to pack for Disney World, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable vacation. You can have a magical vacation no matter the size of your family or age of your kids.
Find more resources for planning your Disney World Trip on the blog.
*This post contains affiliate links that benefit my family. They do not cost you more, in fact often give you a discount. They do help support my family so I can continue bringing you resources like this one. I truly appreciate your support by using these links.