Packing for a Disney vacation can be stressful. However, careful planning and thought before you leave for Walt Disney World can make it a little easier. When taking a summer Disney vacation, there are several things you should consider when packing. Here are our top tips for planning outfits for a summer Disney vacation.
Theme your outfits
Planning your outfits to suit the Disney Park you will visit each day is an excellent way to help with packing. Use your Disney theme park reservations to help you consider which outfits will be most suitable for each day of your Disney vacation. If you plan on visiting two Disney Parks per day, it’s a good idea to schedule a day outfit and an evening outfit.
Outfit themes that we always consider are:
- Magic Kingdom Park – pastel colors, matching t-shirts, or bounding as a favorite Disney character that is featured in the Disney Park are excellent options.
- EPCOT – futuristic or international outfits are a good idea. T-shirts that relate to traveling World Showcase also work well.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios – outfits inspired by favorite Disney Park attractions, Toy Story (1995), and Star Wars are ideal.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom – animal prints, wild patterns, or explorers’ attire are our choice when visiting the Disney Park.
Keep it loose and light
Florida is known for its high temperatures, humidity, and sunshine in the summer months. As such, loose fitting is something you should consider packing. Loose clothing will allow your skin to breathe. Likewise, lighter colors will help to reflect the sun, helping to keep you cooler than dark-colored clothing.
Cover your shoulders and head
Sun lotion is a must-have item in your Disney Park bag when visiting the Walt Disney World Resort. You want to protect yourself from the sun throughout your Disney vacation. However, wearing outfits that cover your shoulders and head is also worth considering. You are going to spend a lot of time outside. As such, your shoulders and head will be in the sun most of the time you are not inside.
To help prevent getting sunburn on these parts of your body, make sure you plan to wear tops and dresses with sleeves. You don’t have to wear them every day, but it’s worth alternating between sleeves and a vest. If you are prone to catching a lot of sun on your head, pack a hat to help protect your scalp from the sun.
Pack a poncho
You should definitely expect some rain during your summer Disney vacation. The Walt Disney World Resort is known to experience thunderstorms and rain showers throughout the summer. They are also a little unpredictable and can arrive at any time. Therefore, it’s sensible to pack a poncho or rain jacket. Disney Parks ponchos are available to buy in every Disney theme park. However, you can save money by packing the ponchos you have bought previously, assuming they are in good condition. Alternatively, packable rain jackets are lightweight and practical.
Think about your shoes
It’s essential to wear comfortable shoes around the Walt Disney World Resort. However, it would help to consider the weather when deciding which shoes to pack. Trainers or sneakers are comfortable. However, they may take some time to dry out if they get wet. Alternatively, consider packing Chaco’s, Crocs sandals, or flip-flops. You won’t need to worry about them getting wet as they’ll quickly dry out if you get caught in a heavy rain shower.
Evenings are a great time to dress up
The heat and humidity in Lake Buena Vista subside a little in the evenings. While you should dress for comfort during the day, you can take advantage of the cooler nights by dressing up. We love to make an advance dining reservation in a Disney restaurant for dinner. It’s the perfect opportunity to wear a shirt or dress. There’s no need to worry about sunburn as the sun will be setting. Carry on your evening beyond time in the Disney Parks, by visiting a lounge or bar around the Walt Disney World Resort. Before you know it, your evening dressing up can become date night.
Consider your accessories
Accessories certainly make an outfit. However, in the summer months, bracelets and necklaces can be a little uncomfortable in the heat. We recommend saving jewelry for the evening when you wear a more glamorous outfit. During the day, bags and hats are excellent accessories to pair with outfits. Of course, mouse ears are perfect any time of day!
Don’t forget a swimsuit
While swimsuits don’t require too much planning, you certainly don’t want to forget packing them during your summer Disney vacation. Whether you intend on visiting Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon or Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park or prefer to spend time at your Disney Resort hotel pool, you’ll be glad to cool off. Spending time at the pool or the Disney water parks is also an excellent way to relax.
Your days may be filled with time in the Disney Parks and Disney Springs. However, the Disney pools are open late into the evening. Consider spending the evening there after a visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom for Park close. Alternatively, skip the Disney fireworks at EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios if you plan on spending a full day in a Disney Park. Your body will thank you for the rest!
Now that you know all our tips, it’s time to pack! Prepare for your summer vacation at the Walt Disney World Resort. We guarantee the packing will be simple, and you’ll have all you need for a magical Disney experience!
