Everyone who has ever been to a sleep-away camp can visualize the packing list. While this isn’t sleep-away camp, this list is even more vital. As someone who has done Disney with Toddlers and made a few mistakes along the way, here is my top 10 list of items for navigating Disney successfully with Toddlers.
High Quality Stroller
There are a lot of varying opinions on strollers and the clear answer is that you should do what works best for you. You will need to know a few things though about taking a stroller to Disney, so if you’re buying on specifically for Disney you’ll want to consider these things.
- Disney has size restrictions. Your Stroller must be smaller than 31 inches by 52 inches. Wagons are not allowed, even if they fit within that size parameter.
- Make sure your stroller has a good amount of storage. You will want to be able to put the things you bring as well as the things you buy there so you don’t have to carry them the whole time.
- If your kids are still in the napping stage of life, find one that allows at least one of your kids the opportunity to lay back to sleep. There is NO tired like Disney tired and you’ll want to let them sleep between rides or shows if you can.
Stroller Cover
This one might seem a bit ridiculous and at first I was with you but if you’ve ever heard your kiddo cry because they’re sitting in a wet stroller seat you’ll know this one is an invaluable addition. Even if the forecast looks clear, it’s Florida, expect rain!
Backpack
Remember that old JanSport you used to carry around your schools campus, well it’s time to pull it back out and give it some use. You’ll want to be able to carry all the things you need on your back easily if the bottom of the stroller fills up with those unexpected purchases. I’d recommend using one that has water bottle holders on the side so that you have easy access to your much needed water stores.
Clear Mesh Zipper Pouches
Like any good system, organization is key. You’ll certainly want to be able to find everything that you’ve cleverly brought to the parks in your backpack. Using these bags can help you find things quickly so you can keep your day moving. Need to carry that toddler for a diaper change without having to carry your entire backpack? There’s a bag for that!
Change of Clothes
Every parent of toddler has been somewhere and at the moment when they needed a change of clothes for their child suddenly remember it was in the other diaper bag. Well, even at Disney where they are great about cleaning, strategically placing bathrooms, or even providing you the opportunity to buy a whole new outfit you’ll want to have a spare tucked away for the kids. This is where one of those handy Clear Mesh Zipper Pouches come in handy from my previous point.
Snacks
The hungry park guest is not a fun park guest. Having a variety of snacks in your backpack will save many an argument. Small individual wrapped snacks such as granola bars, goldfish, animal crackers, or whatever your kids will eat will prove essential.
Sunscreen
This one seems like a given but we are the family that has forgotten. It will be available in all the parks but it’s easier to have it when you need it then to have to stop for it. Again, it’s Florida so even in the winter months a sunburn is easily possible. It’s easy to reapply while you wait in lines or while you’re taking a coveted snack break so just keep it in your bag so you’ll have it when you need it.
Stroller fan
Depending on the time of year you might not have to have one of these but I would say throw it in. Even during the months like February it can reach 80 degrees and this will be a life saver. I recommend one that is easily clipped onto your stroller securely so that when you do have to fold them up for bus rides they stay attached.
Battery Charger
Whether or not you’re using Genie+ during your day in the park it’s likely that you will run your battery dead. Whether it’s picking your next Lightening Lane or taking that character meet and greet photo you’ll want your phone to work when you need it. I recommend getting a larger one that your entire family can use throughout the day and recharging it each night. As an added pro-tip, if you leave your phone charger in the bottom of the stroller and not in your backpack, it won’t set the metal detectors off and they won’t have to search your bag.
Water Bottle
Last on my list but of first importance. During your day at Disney you will need to be sure that you’re drinking plenty of water. Even for those of you that never drink water, DRINK WATER! This will help you avoid any cramps, reduce aches, and helps you be able to be as fresh on day seven as you are on day one of your vacation. Whether you bring several bottles or a refillable water bottle be sure you drink more than your daily recommended amount while in the parks.
Men With Mouse Ears 