Hey there, Susan!
Thanks for bringing your great question to us here on the Disney Parks Moms Panel. I'm excited you are planning the details of your trip to the Happiest Place on Earth. I have taken vacations to the Disneyland Resort with so many different combinations of bags, backpacks, and purses. Before having a child, I was able to carry everything I needed in a small cross-body purse. Now with a toddler, I find I need a little bit more in the parks and choose to bring a backpack. I personally love taking a backpack and having everything I need throughout the day accessible to me while keeping my hands free. You will also find that no matter what bag you take, most bags and backpacks can easily fit by your feet on almost every attraction.
If you find you want to leave a change of clothes for cooler evenings or store your souvenirs without heading back to your hotel, the
convenient locker rentals are a wonderful option to utilize as well. My favorite thing about these lockers is that you can use them throughout the day as many times as you'd like for no additional charge. They are great when I have purchased some fragile merchandise like mugs that I do not want to chance bringing with me as I walk or go on attractions. You can also choose lockers that are in either Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, or between the parks in the esplanade.
When using the amazing
Disneyland app throughout your trip, you will probably want to pack an external phone battery or purchase a
portable phone charger at one of the kiosks in the parks. Don't forget the sunscreen, sunglasses, and autograph book, too.
Have a magical day!
-Jennifer