You might have started your Disney packing list as you prepare for your Walt Disney World vacation. A lot goes into packing for a magical vacation in Disney (see our tips on How to Disney to help make it easier). Along with Disney packing tips, we wanted to provide you will find some items that Disney pros always purchase before arriving at Walt Disney World.
Purchasing these items before arriving in the Walt Disney World bubble can not only save you money, but it will also save you time. Having some of these items already with you can make your trip a lot smoother from the beginning.
Please review the list of items Disney pros purchase before leaving for Walt Disney World and add them to your list.
Hand Sanitizer and Wipes
Disney has done a great job of having hand sanitizer throughout the parks and resorts; however, we recommend bringing your own. Having some hand sanitizer in your Park bag makes it easy to access no matter where you are. Check out Target’s Disney-themed hand sanitizer, or bring your favorite brand down with you. Getting some hand sanitizer with you will save you time finding it throughout the Parks and money and stress if you feel like you need some in your Park bag once there.
Pros also make sure that they bring along wipes. These are great to have on hand, even if you don’t have little ones. Cleaning off tables or hands before and after eating is excellent and convenient.
Snacks
We know there are numerous snack options throughout Walt Disney World, but Disney pros know those hangry moments always show up when you can’t get to them. Preparing snacks for emergencies will help with those hangry meltdowns as you wait in line. Save your money for those Mickey bars and pretzels and not the overpriced snacks you could bring from home.
Also, think about if your family has specific snack items that are favorites. Do you always have cheez-its or goldfish? If so, you will want to ensure you have those with you as you won’t find them at a Disney Park.
Pros know it is nice to have snacks on hand as it can save you money and frustration in a Disney Park.
Weather-Related Gear
Before heading down on vacation, double-check the weather and pack accordingly. Grab those weather-related items before heading down, so you don’t spend triple in the parks.
Disney pros always have ponchos and umbrellas ready for the rainy season. In the summer months and throughout the fall, it is relatively likely that you will encounter a rainstorm during your vacation. Save yourself money by purchasing some cheap ones at the dollar store. These can easily be tossed into a bag or bought and, for only $1, easily thrown out when done.
Make sure to have plenty of sunscreens, fans, and cooling towels for those hot and humid summer months. Disney sells these in the parks but again, save yourself some money and bring them from home. There are many fans on Amazon that are great options. For more tips, check out our top ways to beat the heat!
If traveling in the winter, don’t forget to pack mittens, hats, and even scarfs as it does get cold in the evenings. These items packed ahead of time will save you lots of money and keep you comfortable traveling through the parks.
Portable Chargers
Having your phone charged and accessible during a Walt Disney World vacation has become vital. The importance of the My Disney Experience app continues to grow every break. From wait times to mobile ordering and using Genie+, Guests will want to ensure that their phones stay charged all day.
To ensure this happens, Disney pros always have a portable charger ready to go. Be prepared for this by purchasing a portable charger (or two) before heading down. Although you can find fuel rods in different places throughout Disney Property, it will be much cheaper to snag one off of Amazon. Don’t be stuck in the parks wanting to take photos of those magical moments only to find your phone has died. Come prepared with a portable charger! This will save a lot of stress. If you have teens with their phones, ensure they have their portable chargers.
Gift Cards
Disney pros take advantage of discounted Disney gift cards. They use these as a great way to save up for a vacation. Use these throughout your stay for food, souvenirs, or event tickets. Discounted gift cards are an excellent way to save money on your vacation.
Purchasing Disney gift cards ahead of time is a fantastic way to budget for your vacation and keep track of your purchases during your Disney vacation.
Fun Items
Disney pros also like to purchase fun items such as souvenirs, glow sticks, and bubbles ahead of their Disney vacation. If you are looking for easy gifts for your kids, consider checking out your local stores for deals before leaving. This is a great way to save money.
Also, always look on shopDisney to see if deals are happening online you can take advantage of ahead of time. Get those plushes on sale to save some money!
If your family is enjoying a nighttime spectacular, consider packing some glow items to help celebrate the show. These are fun for kids to play with and wear during the show and are cheap back home.
Finally, the bubble wands are always a hit with kids of all ages but know that they run out quickly. Prevent meltdowns by purchasing some bubbles ahead of time to refill.
Disney pros know that purchasing some essential and fun items can save them money and time on their Disney vacation. We hope these tips will help you arrive more prepared.
