On
Jul 27, 2014
Renee
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.
“
My husband and I are taking our 10 year old daughter to Disneyworld in October (13-19). What type of bag, backpack or purse should I take into the parks? What things will I need to bring to the parks?”
Hi Renee,
I've tried several different bags over the years -- a backpack, large tote, different sized purses. My go-to for several years now has been a cloth cross-body bag that lays fairly flat against my body. The current one I use can hold my phone, ID, credit card, sunscreen stick, iPad, sunglasses, lip balm, tissues, hand sanitizer, a protein bar and a water bottle. That sounds like a lot, but it doesn't overstuff my bag or make it too heavy. I do cheat a little and let my husband carry my rain poncho in his backpack, although a small disposable one would fit neatly.
There's really not much else that I need in the parks, especially now that MagicBands make entering the park and paying for purchases so easy. Occasionally, I will add a few extra snacks or a small pad of paper and a pen. In general, though, I try to travel as light as possible.
My daughters started carrying cross-body bags, too, when they were 7 or 8 so that they had their own essentials, along with autograph books, candy or other items they couldn't live without. Because the bags loop over the neck, too, they weren't in danger of losing them when they were younger. They've stuck with similar bags as they've grown into teenagers and adults.
My husband doesn't always carry a bag, but he will sometimes bring a backpack or string bag so that he doesn't have to keep his phone in his pocket and he can have space for a book or iPad, his sunglasses, rain ponchos or our jackets if it is likely to be cool after dark.
My best advice is to be sure you are comfortable carrying whatever bag you choose. Try not to pack it too full; you may want room for souvenirs.
I hope that's helpful. Please let me know if I can do anything else to help as you plan your visit. Enjoy!
Wilma