Hi there, Kristian! Oh boy! Your Disneyland Resort adventure is just around the corner, and it's time to tackle one of the most important parts: packing! I'm excited to put my planDisney experience to good use to help you get your suitcase sorted. Let’s hop to it!
April at Disneyland is generally delightful—think beautiful springtime weather with daytime highs around 75°F, ideal for exploring. Evenings cool down to the mid-50s (°F), so here's my golden packing rule: layers are your best friend! Mornings can be a bit brisk, especially if you plan on taking the tram from the parking structure. I usually start with a t-shirt and a light jacket. A windbreaker is fantastic because it's lightweight but blocks that morning breeze. As the day warms up and the California sun peeks out, you'll probably want to shed that outer layer.
But, Kristian, be sure to keep those layers handy! Evenings at Disneyland can get chilly again, especially during the spectacular
World of Color – ONE show at Disney California Adventure Park. If you’re close enough to the action, you might even feel a little mist from the fountains, but don’t worry—the show's dazzling pyrotechnics will warm you right up!
Beyond layers, remember to pack your comfortable shoes. You'll be getting your steps in, so make sure your shoes are well-broken-in. The last thing you’ll want to do is wear brand new shoes to Disneyland—been there, done that, and don’t plan on doing it again! Also, don't forget to pack sun protection. I’d recommend bringing sunscreen (at least SPF 30+) and sunglasses—a stylish Mickey hat doesn’t hurt either! It's also vital to stay hydrated. My pro tip is to bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at the park’s many refilling stations. If you forget it (or don’t have room in your suitcase), don’t worry—there are plenty of places to purchase bottled water. You can also request complimentary cups of ice water at many of the quick-service dining locations. Lastly, a small backpack is perfect for carrying your water bottle, sunscreen, snacks, and any souvenirs you pick up.
Here’s something else I wish I would have learned sooner:
Lockers are your best pal for storing extra layers, purchases, or anything you don't want to carry all day. They're a small, worthwhile investment for a day of hands-free fun, and you can find them inside both parks, as well as the Esplanade in between. The Esplanade location is my personal favorite, as it offers the ultimate flexibility, especially for
Park Hoppers like me who might not know which park will be the final stop of the night. Plus, it's just a quick detour on the way to either park!
And, speaking of layers, if you happen to find yourself a little under-prepared for the evening chill, don't worry! The Disneyland Resort has plenty of fantastic
shops where you can find the perfect sweatshirt, jacket, or cozy blanket to keep you comfortable. Let's just say I may have, on occasion, “accidentally forgotten” my sweatshirt and found myself with a perfectly good excuse to acquire a new piece of Disney apparel!
So there you have it, Kristian! Packing for Disneyland doesn't have to be complicated. Just a few key strategies, and you'll be ready for anything. Focus on comfort, be prepared for changing weather, and most importantly, get ready to have an absolute blast! If anything else comes to mind, feel free to ask. Have a wonderful, magical, and perfectly packed trip!
Cody