There’s nothing quite like the excitement of planning a Disney or Universal vacation… until you start wondering what on earth to pack, especially when traveling with kids. As a family travel planner, I’ve seen the panic packing, the overpacking, and the “I can’t believe we forgot that!” moments.

That’s why I created this ultimate family theme park packing list to help you feel prepared, organized, and confident long before you step foot on Main Street U.S.A. or walk through the Universal turnstiles.

This list includes my personal favorites, Amazon travel hacks that make park days so much easier, and kid-friendly essentials that keep meltdowns to a minimum. Let’s get you packed (and excited!) for the magic.

Pro Planning Tip: We recommend using Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel to book your Disney or Universal vacation!

Family Theme Park Packing Essentials

Clothing & Personal Items

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking outfits (Florida humidity is no joke)
• Extra outfits for young kids—trust me, you’ll need them
• Comfortable walking shoes (break them in before your trip!) – [My favorite walking shoes for women]
• Ponchos for pop-up rainstorms — inexpensive [affordable ponchos]
• Hats & sunglasses for everyone
• Cooling towels — these are a lifesaver surviving the heat of summer [the best cooling towels]

Park Bag Must-Haves

This is where parents either thrive… or struggle. A well-packed park bag makes all the difference.

• Portable charger (your phone will die)—I love this compact one [battery pack]
• Autograph book + pen for character meet-and-greets
• Snacks (lines are long and kids are hungry)
• Refillable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Mini first aid kit—bandages, pain relievers, blister patches
• Travel fan (especially for babies/toddlers) [the BEST travel fan]
• Wipes + hand sanitizer
• Lightweight stroller fan cover if bringing a stroller [My favorite stroller fans]
• Zip-top bags for wet clothes, leftover snacks, or kid “treasures”
• Stroller rain cover—don’t skip this [stroller rain cover]

Kids’ Comfort + Entertainment

Because bored or overheated kids = a short park day.

• Portable bubble wand—instant entertainment in lines [Mickey Bubble Wand]
• Sticker books or mini coloring pads
• Noise-reducing headphones
• Collapsible stroller (or rent one!)
• Character lanyard for pins or tickets

Amazon Travel Hacks That Make Park Days WAY Easier

These aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re parent hacks that save your sanity.

• Packing cubes to keep each kid’s outfits organized [love these packing cubes]
• Over-the-door shoe organizer for resort room organization (trust me!)
• Portable white noise machine [can’t sleep without this one]
• Pop-up laundry hamper
• Reusable utensil + straw kit
• Hanging toiletry bag

For Your Resort Days

• Swimsuits + rash guards
• Pool shoes
• Goggles
• Waterproof phone pouch [I take this one on every trip]
• Aloe or after-sun lotion

Downloadable Packing List

Packing for a family theme park vacation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With this theme park packing list, you’ll be ready for magical park days, easy mornings, and meltdown-free adventures.

✨ Ready to pack your bags? Let’s make sure your itinerary is just as stress-free. Message me to book your Disney or Universal vacation!

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