Top 7 Things You Can’t Forget to Pack
Often I feel like I’m leaving and never coming back when I look at the amount of things I pack for a vacation. Drives my husband crazy! The good news is that you can purchase just about anything your forget onsite, the bad news is that it is just going to cost you an arm and a leg when you get there! There are a few key items that I never want to forget to keep our resort room
7. A Jacket
Ummm… Hello? It’s Florida! Yep, but in the summer the air condition in the restaurants, shops and even the resort hallways is on full blast, and I get very cold. I always bring along a light jacket that I can shove in my back pack just in case it is uncomfortably cold. When you’re sweaty and then sit in the AC you get cold and chilled very fast. If you are traveling in late fall through early spring you may need a jacket outside, and maybe even a heavier coat.
6. Cash
Yes, just about every location will accept payment in the form of a Credit Card, but you will need some cash for a few situations, including emergencies. Any tips that you give to bell services, housekeeping, valets, etc. will need to be paid in cash. I’m a big tipper. Those employees work hard for their money!
5. Ponchos or Rain Jackets
Central Florida is prone to rain showers and you want to be prepared. You can buy a poncho at Disney, but you will pay a premium price. They will last for years, I’ve had mine for 5 years now. You can stock up ahead of time and buy them for a $1 at Wal-Mart or a Dollar Store before you leave. The Disney ponchos are a higher quality, but at their prices you will want to keep it for the future. The cheepie versions can be tossed when the sun comes back out. Another great use for the less expensive versions is to keep you a bit dryer on water rides like Splash Mountain and Kali River Rapids.
4. Shoes
I am an over-packer, but you can never have too many pairs of shoes. It is important to bring a good pair of shoes that fit well, are broken in, and offer support to your feet, knees and back. You will be shocked at how much walking you do in a day at the theme parks, and your feet will not thank you if you do it all in a pair of flip flops or sandals. You also need to have at least 2 pairs of shoes, when the first pair gets soaked in a downpour you will want a replacement pair while they dry out. I also bring flip flops for the pool or Water Park days.
3. Sunscreen
Again, another item available in the resort shops, but the types are limited and the prices are high. With a child that is allergic to the sun (yes you read that correctly, my child breaks out in hives when she is exposed to the sun) this is at the top of my packing list and it takes up very little space. We have sprays, heavy and heavy creams with a SPF ranging form 30 to 75. If you have sensitive skin and use a particular brand of sunscreen, you need to pack your own because chances are you won’t find it on property.
2. Batteries, Chargers or USB Ports
In our electronic world it is important to make sure we keep everything running. Some resorts do have an iHome clock where you can charge one of your devices. Don’t forget the USB cords, any extra chargers, handheld game chargers, iPad chargers, etc. With the My Disney Experience app you may also find that you need to recharge in the parks, I recommend bringing a portable recharging battery. Best $20 I ever spent.
1. Travel Details, ID, Tickets, Magic Bands
Don’t forget these things!! Yes, you can replace some of these once you arrive onsite, but it is a hassle and it takes time away from your vacation. You can’t replace your ID at Disney, so make sure you have your Driver’s License, and if you are traveling internationally don’t forget your passport when you leave home. I recommend putting together a folder with all of your travel related documents including resort confirmations, package travel documents, tickets, gift cards, and more. And don’t forget your Magic Bands! Put them in a carry-on bag if you are flying because you will use them to check in to Disney’s Magical Express. (we wear ours to the airport) If you do forget them they will be replaced onsite.
What are your must pack items for your Walt Disney World Vacation?
Are you ready to book your Disney World vacation? Let Disney Expert, Heather Butler, help you plan your next visit with Mickey Mouse. Be sure you ask her about Disney’s Payment program to make a Disney vacation even more affordable. Call her at 717-656-7251 or email her today.
