Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney pro, packing the right tech for your Disney World vacation can make all the difference. From capturing every magical moment to staying connected with your group, tech can help streamline your experience. Here are 10 essential tech items to pack, along with pro tips for getting the most out of them during your trip.
1. Camera or Smart Phone: Capture Every Magical Moment
There’s no question about it — Disney World is one of the most photogenic places on Earth. You’ll want to capture every special moment, from your first glimpse of Cinderella Castle to your kids meeting Mickey Mouse.
While PhotoPass photographers are available throughout the parks, having your own camera ensures you get the shots and videos that matter most to you. A portable, rugged camera or even your smartphone will do the trick, but don’t forget about special lenses if you’re an avid photographer.
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What to bring: A portable, rugged camera or your smartphone.
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Pro tip: For returning guests, consider bringing a high-quality camera with interchangeable lenses to capture detailed photos of the parks and attractions.
2. FitBit or Fitness Tracker: Track Your Steps Through the Parks
Get ready to walk miles upon miles as you explore Disney World. Whether you’re exploring the attractions in World Celebration, World Discovery, or World Nature, you’ll rack up some serious steps.
A fitness tracker like a FitBit will not only help you keep track of how much you’re moving but will also encourage you to stay active throughout your trip. It’s a great way to stay motivated and enjoy some healthy competition with your travel group.
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Bonus: It’s an excellent excuse to indulge in a few extra Mickey Bars!
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Why you need it: Keeping track of your steps gives you insight into how much you’re moving, and it can motivate you to hit your fitness goals while enjoying the magic.
3. Smartphone: Your Ultimate Disney Companion
Your smartphone is indispensable when navigating Disney World. Not only can you contact your group, but your phone also serves as your ultimate tool for the My Disney Experience app.
This app allows you to check ride wait times, make Lightning Lane reservations, access maps, and even find bathroom locations. For returning visitors, the app often gets updates and new features — so it’s always worth checking in for the latest enhancements before your trip.
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Pro tip: Be sure to download the latest version of My Disney Experience before your visit. The app’s recent updates now allow for even more pre-trip planning, such as ride reservations, restaurant bookings, and showtimes.
4. Apps: Enhance Your Disney Experience
While apps aren’t “physical” tech items, they are essential for making the most of your trip. Be sure to download the My Disney Experience app, which serves as your go-to guide for park info, dining, and reservations.
Other helpful apps include:
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Disney Shout: Interactive games for the whole family to enjoy while waiting in line.
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Show Your Disney Side: A fun app that lets your group customize photos during downtime.
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Pro tip for returning guests: For those with a Disney Park Hopper pass, the Park Pass Reservation System app feature can help you track availability and make adjustments to your itinerary on the fly.
5. Kid Entertainment: Keeping Little Ones Busy Between Parks
While it’s important for kids to experience the magic of the parks, there will be times when they need a little downtime. Whether you’re waiting for a meal or heading back to the hotel, a device to entertain them can be helpful.
For young travelers, a Kindle Fire with parental controls offers an excellent way to keep them entertained without the temptation of unfiltered content. It’s an easy way to provide some peace and quiet when needed.
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Why it’s helpful: Provides a great way to keep kids entertained without distracting them from the magic of the parks.
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Recommended device: The Kindle Fire for children, as it has great educational apps and videos, plus you can control what they access.
6. Medical Tech: Stay Safe and Healthy
Disney World offers excellent support for guests with special needs or medical conditions. However, if you require specific medical equipment, be sure to bring everything you need, from medication to devices.
Disney provides plenty of support for medical needs, including First Aid stations, refrigerated medication storage, and 24/7 urgent care. Additionally, Disney’s transportation services can take you to urgent care if needed.
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Tip: If you have a medical device like a CPAP machine, remember that Disney can assist with storage and access if needed.
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Bonus: Download the My Disney Experience app’s “Guest Assistance” features to make arrangements for any special accommodations in advance.
7. Tablet: Your Travel Hub at the Hotel
While you may not want to bring a tablet to the parks, it’s helpful when you’re back at the hotel. Tablets provide a larger screen for checking your itinerary, reviewing restaurant menus, or watching Disney movies.
A tablet also comes in handy for checking tomorrow’s park options and dining reservations in the comfort of your room after a long day in the parks.
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Pro tip: Use your tablet for easy planning in the hotel room. Check My Disney Experience to adjust FastPass+ reservations or view park hours for the next day.
8. Portable Battery Charger: Stay Powered Throughout the Day
You’ll be using your phone a lot during your trip, from taking photos to checking ride times and reservations. A portable battery charger ensures you don’t get stuck with a dead phone mid-day, especially if you’re relying on it for directions or reservations.
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Tip: Invest in a portable charger that’s small enough to fit in your bag and can charge multiple devices at once.
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Bonus: Consider a portable charger that can also charge Bluetooth headphones, tablets, and cameras, so you don’t have to carry extra devices.
9. Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Hotel Room Tunes
If you’re looking to add some extra fun to your downtime at the hotel, a portable Bluetooth speaker is a great addition. It’s small, easy to pack, and can help you set the mood while getting ready for your Disney dining experience or just relaxing after a long day.
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Why it’s fun: Create a Disney-themed playlist and enjoy the magic while you unwind in your hotel room.
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Pro tip for returning visitors: Try syncing your speaker with the app for themed music during rest breaks or hotel downtime. Disney music is available in several apps!
10. Earbuds, Chargers, and Tech Cases: Don’t Forget the Basics
While it’s easy to get carried away with all the cool gadgets, don’t forget the essentials. Earbuds are crucial for both adults and kids, especially if you want some peace and quiet while traveling or waiting in lines. You’ll also want to pack your chargers and tech cases to keep everything organized and protected.
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Tech Essentials:
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Earbuds for private listening.
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Waterproof cases to protect against rain (especially useful during summer months).
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Chargers — always essential!
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Tech That Makes the Magic Even More Magical
While it can be tempting to leave all technology behind when visiting Disney, the right tech can elevate your experience. These items will help you stay organized, capture magical moments, and navigate the parks with ease.
Just remember to unplug every once in a while and take in all the magic Disney World has to offer!
Are you planning your first Disney trip or your 10th? What’s your must-have tech for the parks? Share your tips in the comments below!
