On
Jul 10, 2012
Nikki from AL
Asked
Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.
“
Our first Disney trip is this September! We have a four day pass and are staying at Pop Century. Please give me tips on what to carry. Crossbody bag, backpack, etc through the parks every day? And should I bring a stroller for my four year old? Thanks”
Hello, Nikki!
Oh, wow! Your first trip to Walt Disney World and you're bringing your little one, too! :-) How exciting!
Personally, I prefer carrying a very small crossbody bag because I can keep my phone, camera, park tickets and credit cards with me at all times, even on the biggest rides. Friends of mine, however, love carrying a lightweight backpack. Either way, what's essential is that the straps are wide and soft, so that you'll be comfortable all day. There is a bag check before you enter each park, so the simpler it is to look into all of your bag's compartments, the quicker you'll move;
Regarding the stroller, definitely bring it! The parks are far too big for your little one's legs to comfortably maneuver all day and night, so you will all be happy that you have the stroller. In fact, if you can bring a stroller which has any storage space at all, you can lighten the bag on your shoulder and keep drinks, snacks, etc., on the stroller. We keep fruit snacks, lollipops, granola and a bottle of water (per person), so that we'll never have to get out of a line or skip an attraction because somebody's thirsty. :-)
On that last note, it will still be hot in September, so I recommend that you pick up wide-mouthed refillable cups for each of you. (Just picked up two more for my parents-in-law at a local drug store.) In the morning, fill up your cups with ice at Pop Century, and top off with water. This will give each of you a nice, cold drink for most of the morning. At lunch, if you stop for a Quick-Service meal, get a fountain drink of your choice (they are huge!) and pour what you didn't drink into your cup. This will keep a nice, cold drink with you for the rest of the afternoon.
Send more questions as you think of them! I'd love to help you plan your perfect first trip to Walt Disney World!