Hi there, Evelyn!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. When I'm not packing for the Walt Disney World Resort, I'm dreaming about packing for a vacation there, so you're surely at the right place!
I have 4 essential checklists for every trip. First, I think of the items I need for the plane. Usually pack a comfy coat, sunglasses, extra glasses, headphones, phone and notebook chargers, a travel pillow, hand lotion, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and medication. I also like to pack my
MagicBand on my airplane luggage, but, to be fair, I always put it on before I even get to the airport!
My checked luggage always includes park outfits, clothes to wear in the room after I shower, pajamas, flip-flops, at least two pairs of sneakers or other comfy shoes, and swimming attire. I also carry a sun hat, a cooling towel, a poncho, and a rainproof jacket. My dear friend Anne Marie
always takes her Toms and Keen sandals, and she loves them. I'm curious to try them, so I may pack them on my next trip, too!
I also pack some evening clothes to wear at places that have a dress code (like my favorite restaurant,
Jiko - The Cooking Place). It doesn't have to be fancy, so I pack 2 or three dresses that go well with flats, and I'm good to go.
Finally, it's necessaire time! The most important item on my Disney necessaires is sunscreen, so I take a big tube to use in the morning, a small one to use during the day, and two facial sunscreens: one stays in the bathroom, and the other one goes in my purse.
If you're traveling with kids or a big group, your packing needs may change a bit, so it's also smart to Google packing tips for your specific needs, Evelyn!
Finally, to get a sense of distance between places, my best tip is to use Google Maps to test the routes. Not all maps follow a scale, so you may be deceived even by the best options out there. Google Maps can be very helpful, especially if you're planning on renting a car!
I hope that these tips help you plan for the most amazing days at the
Walt Disney World Resort. A well-planned suitcase usually means no worries for the rest of your (vacation) days. With this problem-free philosophy, you're going to be singing Hakuna Matata for the rest of the trip!
May the magic be with you,
Julie