Hi David,
Thank you for sending your question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. I love that you are planning ahead and thinking about what you will need to bring for your visit to
Walt Disney World Resort.
Most people will agree that this is a personal choice, however I can give you some tips that I have used when deciding what type of bag to bring with me into a Disney Theme Park. First, I take into consideration how many people are with me. If I am traveling alone in the Theme Park, I won’t need to pack nearly as much as I would if my daughter is with me. When we are in a Theme Park as a family, I tend to pack more, including sunscreen, sweaters, snacks, extra Mickey Ears, autograph books, and anything else my daughter picks up along the way. I will almost always need the extra storage my backpack allows when we’re together as a family.
Next think about your personal belongings and valuables. Will you be bringing in your wallet and some extra spending money? Personally, when I know it’s my last day and I have to bring Passports and my wallet with me into a Theme Park, I would prefer to have these items closer to me where I can keep an eye on them in something like a fanny pack or a crossbody purse. It makes me nervous having my wallet on my back where someone could potentially unzip the backpack without me noticing.
Finally, you should also consider the time of year you will be visiting. Summer months can be very hot in Florida, and having the extra weight of the backpack can really be uncomfortable. I try to pack as lightly as possible when I visit Walt Disney World Resort in the summer months, making a smaller bag a better choice.
Please let us know if you have any other questions, we are always happy to help.
Stephanie