Credit: DisneyWhen you think about packing for Disney World, you probably imagine Mickey ears, matching shirts, and autograph books. And sure, those things are fun—but they’re not the items that’ll save your sanity in the Florida heat, crowds, and chaos. Once you’ve been to the parks a few times, you realize there are some MVPs of the packing world that no one talks about.
If you want to have a smoother, comfier, and all-around better Disney trip, these are the things you’ll be glad you tossed into your suitcase (or park bag). Not to mention, it will save you lots of money!
1. A Portable Charger (Trust Us on This One)
Between checking Lightning Lane times, snapping pictures, mobile ordering, and using the My Disney Experience app, your phone will work overtime. And no one wants to be stuck at 3% while trying to find the wait time for Rise of the Resistance. Bring a reliable portable charger—you’ll use it every single day.
2. A Refillable Water Bottle
Florida is hot. Like, “why am I sweating at 9 a.m.?” hot. Buying bottled water every time you’re thirsty adds up fast (and you’ll be thirsty often). Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up at fountains and quick-service spots throughout the day.
3. Sunscreen
You walk around for hours, and shade can be hit or miss. Pack sunscreen and actually use it. Reapply, too—shoulders, nose, neck, ears. A sunburn can sneak up on you faster than a rope drop crowd running to Flight of Passage.
4. Body Glide, Chafing Balm, or Good Ol’ Vaseline
No one likes to talk about it, but chafing is real. If you’re walking 10 miles a day in heat and humidity, it’s bound to happen unless you take preventative action. A little body glide or Vaseline on thighs, arms, or anywhere else you need it can save your day.
5. Comfortable Shoes (The Real Kind)
This is not the time to break in new sandals or go for “cute but not practical.” Your feet will be doing a lot of work and will absolutely protest if you’re not wearing something supportive and broken-in. Bring your comfiest pair—and maybe a backup.
6. Poncho or Rain Jacket
It’s Florida. It will rain. Sometimes for five minutes, sometimes all afternoon. Disney sells ponchos, but they’re pricey for what they are. Bring your own compact poncho or lightweight rain jacket and thank yourself when the skies open up.
7. Snacks
Disney snacks are magical, no doubt about it. But $6 for a pretzel here and $5 for a churro there adds up fast. Having granola bars, crackers, or fruit snacks in your bag can help hold you over between meals (and help avoid hangry meltdowns).
8. Reusable Straws
Disney has gone eco-friendly, which is great—until you’re trying to sip your drink and the paper straw collapses after five minutes. It’s really annoying not being able to enjoy the Coke you just spent $10 on. A silicone or metal reusable straw is a small thing that makes a big difference.
You can even bring plastic straws if you’d prefer to pick up a pack before the trip. Just know these will not pass security in Animal Kingdom or the water parks.
What You Pack Matters More Than You Think
Some of the most essential things to pack for Disney World are the ones you don’t think about until it’s too late. A portable charger, sunscreen, and chafing balm aren’t glamorous but game-changers. Pack like a pro and you’ll spend less time dealing with problems and more time enjoying the parks. And really, that’s what it’s all about.