Planning a trip to the Florida theme parks and wondering what to pack? Whether you’re heading to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, or any of the other Orlando or Central Florida attractions, having the right essentials can make your trip. This theme park packing list covers everything you need, from theme park outfits to must have gear, so you can focus on having fun without worrying about forgetting things!
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Comfortable Clothes
The Florida theme parks are a great place to dress in comfortable clothes to walk around in all day. Think lightweight, quick drying clothes like athletic wear, cottons, or lightweight sporty dresses. In the summertime, you’ll want to dry quickly from water rides or sweating, while in the winter may want some lightweight layers, as the Florida sun can still be hot mid-day! If you want to have cute Disney outfits or fun Universal outfits, be sure to consider comfort when you are planning them!
A Small Bag
Packing all your essentials for a long day at the parks is essential, but a lot of the free lockers at most theme parks are pretty small. Opt for a small backpack (think mini, not the size that you’d walk around school with) or fanny pack as these are easiest to carry around and still fit in the little free lockers. My newest favorite has been using my Lululemon Belt Bag since it’s small and easy to keep on and access. Plus, they leave you hands-free most of the day, so you can enjoy all the snacks and experiences without having to lug a big bag around.
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Good Shoes
Walking around the parks, you’ll easily surpass your daily 10,000 step goal, so having comfortable shoes is a must! During the summertime, Tevas are my favorite, since they are lightweight, dry quickly, comfortable, and don’t risk falling off during roller coasters. Tennis shoes are another great option if you’re not planning on getting your feet wet or need a little more support for the long day of walking around, or if you’re visiting in the wintertime.
Hand Sanitizer
Theme parks are packed with people from all over the world, so keeping your hands clean is important to avoid getting sick! You’ll likely be touching many surfaces and may not be thinking about running to the bathroom to wash your hands every time you reach to grab a snack. Keep a hand sanitizer in your bag for all those quick grab snacks.
Reusable Water Bottle
Let’s face it, theme parks can be expensive! I always bring a reusable water bottle that I can refill at water fountains around the parks. Not only do I save a ton of money with how much water I usually drink, but I feel good reducing the amount of plastic water bottles that I consume by bringing my own refillable water bottle. I try to be as eco-conscious as I can wherever I go, so this is one little step I can take to make a tiny difference.
Heading to Florida? Check out our other Florida Travel Guides Here!
Sun Protection
The Florida sun can be intense year-round, so protecting your skin is definitely important while you’re experiencing the Florida theme parks. I always start my day with sunscreen on, use SPF lip balm, and wear sunglasses. If you’re very sensitive to the sun, it may be a good idea to bring a hat and wear a SPF sun shirt too. Don’t underestimate how strong the sun can be, even in the winter!
Swimsuit
This is a MUST if you plan on riding any water rides! I almost always wear a swimsuit or bikini under my regular clothes so I can ride the water rides. This is of course even more important if you plan on visiting one of the many water parks, but I always recommend it if you are planning on visiting the regular theme parks as well.
Portable Charger
Using your phone for photos, videos, maps, and mobile ordering can drain your phone battery pretty quickly. Bringing a portable charger is a great way to make sure you can stay connected all day. Some parks rent them out or sell them, but I always like to bring a solar charger that I can pop in the sun if we’re eating some lunch or waiting in line.
Poncho or Raincoat
The Florida weather can be unpredictable, especially in the summertime. Packing a small poncho or lightweight raincoat can keep you from getting drenched and chilly when you least expect it. If you forget your rain coat, the gift shops often sell rain ponchos. These are easier to maneuver through the parks with than an umbrella, and take up less space in your bag.
Cooling Items
If you’re not very heat tolerant, it may be a good idea to consider bringing a mini cooling fan or a cooling towel. The Florida heat can be intense, especially in the summertime. Central Florida doesn’t have an ocean breeze like some of the coastal areas, so it can get very hot! Stay hydrated and try to find shade as much as you can, especially if you’re not from a climate that is hot and humid.
Deodorant and/or Wipes
I’ve mentioned it before, but the Florida sun is hot! Bringing a mini deodorant or some body wipes can help you feel more fresh throughout the day.
Need Hotels near the parks? Check out these:
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Snacks
Theme park snacks are a must while you’re visiting as they can have some really fun themed items, but they can add up in cost quickly! I always try to bring some granola bars, protein bars, or quick snacks that I can grab easily from my little bag for a quick craving. This way, I have more snack options, save money, and feel better about not only eating unhealthy food all day. But I do splurge on some favorite theme park snacks like a Pineapple Dole Whip or sweet Minion Macaron!
Outfits for Nighttime
If you’re planning on exploring the nightlife areas of the parks, like CityWalk at Universal or Disney Springs at Walt Disney World, then you may want a change of clothes to keep in the car or in your hotel room. While you can definitely explore these areas in your theme park outfits, it’s fun to get a little more dressed up for some of the restaurants, shops, or shows that they offer. I’d still recommend having comfortable shoes, as these areas are pretty spread out, so you’ll still be walking a bit!
Download the Apps
Most theme parks have their own apps that you should consider downloading before you get to the parks. These apps usually have showtimes, maps, dining menus and reservations, and a slew of other helpful information. They may even link to your tickets so you can use your phone as a pass instead of digging for a physical copy. Download them before your trip so you can get familiar with them, create your account to link to your trip, and make any reservations that you want to secure for your trip!
Check out these other amazing Orlando area attractions and tours while in Florida!
Tickets & Confirmations
Be sure to have a digital copy of your tickets and/or confirmations. I always screenshot the confirmation emails in case my email or app isn’t connecting properly. You usually can’t use a screenshot as your ticket, but the employees at the parks can at least find your reservation if you are having trouble pulling it up.
Waterproof Phone Case or Pouch
This is a MUST if you are planning on riding any of the water rides or viewing any of the animal shows that may have a splash zone. I love my Aloha small pouch to toss my phone, keys, and wallet into to keep dry in case of a splash. You can also opt for a truly waterproof case if you’re worried about valuables getting wet.
Motion Sickness Remedies
Not everyone gets motion sickness, but some of the rides may test your motion sickness, and you don’t want your day ruined because you were unprepared. If you think you may be sensitive to rides, it’s a good idea to have some prevention or nausea remedies or medications ready. Of course, speak with your doctor before taking any medications.
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Great tips! Our number one must-have at theme parks is an airtag bracelet for the kids so we can find them if they run off!
Ah that’s a good one! I don’t have kids so don’t think about things like that!