What to Pack (and NOT Pack) for a Theme Park Vacation With Kids 🎒✨

Tips from a Travel Agent (and Mom Who's Been to Disney & Universal a Lot)

Hey there, fellow magical vacation lovers! 👋

If you're planning a family trip to Disney, Universal, or any theme park with kids, you're probably asking the million-dollar question:
"What the heck do I actually need to pack?"
And just as important—"What can I leave at home?"

I’m a travel agent who specializes in family travel, and we go to Disney and Universal multiple times a year with our kids. We’ve done it all—summer heat, spring break crowds, even rainy days with toddlers. So, trust me when I say: I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and what ends up buried at the bottom of the backpack, never to be touched again.

Let’s break it all down. 💼👇

✅ Must-Pack Theme Park Essentials for Families:

1. Portable Battery Pack (Or Two!) 🔋

Between Lightning Lane bookings, mobile food orders, and taking all the pictures, your phone doesn’t get a break. I always bring a charged battery pack—and I’m a huge fan of FuelRods. You can swap them out at kiosks all around Disney and Universal for a fresh one when yours dies. So easy!

2. Cooling Towels or Portable Fans 🌬️

Florida is hot 80% of the year. These cooling towels are game-changers, and our kids actually love using them.
Bonus: They make great capes during downtime. 😂

3. Snacks, Snacks, and More Snacks 🍿

Theme park snacks are amazing, but the lines? Not so much. I always stash Goldfish, fruit snacks, or granola bars in my park bag for those uh-oh-it’s-a-meltdown moments. Trust me—future you will be so grateful.

4. Refillable Water Bottles 💦

Most quick service spots give free cups of ice water. Bring your own bottle and refill as needed.
Hydrated kids = fewer meltdowns.

5. Ponchos or Compact Umbrellas ☔

It will rain. It’s just part of the Florida experience. I keep $1 ponchos in every backpack, just in case. They take up almost no space and have saved us so many times.
Bonus: These are awesome for water rides too—no one wants to ride Tiana’s Bayou and squish around the rest of the day!

6. Know About the First Aid Centers 🏥

Here’s one a lot of people don’t know: Every Disney and Universal park has a First Aid center, and they are amazing. You can get Band-Aids, basic medicine (like Tylenol or allergy relief), help with blisters, or even just a quiet, air-conditioned place to cool off. We’ve popped in for everything from motion sickness to a scraped knee—and the Cast Members and team members there are always so kind and helpful!

7. Your Mickey Ears! 🐭✨

It’s not a Disney trip without them! Whether you're rocking classic black ears or festive seasonal ones, don’t forget to pack your favorite pair. They’re not only iconic—they make for the best family photos!

❌ Things You Think You Need (But Don’t):

1. Too Many Outfits 👚

Guilty: I used to pack "just in case" outfits for every day. These days? We pack light and rewear what works. You’re spending the day in a theme park, not walking a red carpet!

2. Bulky Strollers (Unless Absolutely Necessary) 🚼

We made the rookie mistake of bringing a big jogging stroller once. Never again. If your kid needs wheels, go light and compact. Trust me—when you're folding it up to get on a bus at 10 p.m., you’ll be glad.

3. Tons of Toys 🧸

You’ll probably come home with a souvenir or two (hello, bubble wands!), so leave the toy bin at home. Less to lose and less to carry.

🎟️ Pro Tip From a Travel Agent Who’s Been There, Done That:

Every family is different, but here's what I always remind my clients: less is more. You want to stay cool, travel light, and keep everyone comfortable. Overpacking only adds stress—and who needs more of that in a theme park?

✨ Let Me Help You Plan Your Next Magical Family Trip!

As a travel agent who lives and breathes family vacations, Disney, Universal, and cruises, I don’t just book the trip—I help you plan smarter. Once your vacation is booked, I’ll guide you through Lightning Lanes, share helpful tips (like gift card savings strategies), help with dining recommendations and reservations, answer all your questions, and so much more.

Let me take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on the fun!

Let’s chat! I’d love to help you plan a magical adventure filled with laughter, memories, and Mickey-shaped snacks. 🏰💫

P.S. Want a printable packing list for your Disney or Universal trip? Just message me—I'm happy to share my tried-and-true version! 🎢🎒