Welcome back to planDisney, Jody! We are so honored that you trust us to answer your vacation planning questions.
Over the years, my husband and I have carried a wide variety of bags and backpacks into the Disney theme parks, filled with various snacks, drinks, and other essential items. I am now of the “the smaller, the better” mindset. While I still will carry my cute Disney Dooney & Bourke backpack with my travel umbrella (for both sun AND rain), my metal water bottle, my hand sanitizer & wipes, & my sunglasses case, I have slowly whittled away the amount that I carry! On most attractions, you can put your bag between your feet while you ride.
Any bags, coolers, or backpacks taken into the theme parks must be
no larger than 24" long x 15" wide x 18" high. Loose or dry ice is also not permitted in the theme parks, so if you want to keep something cold in your bag, I recommend using reusable ice packs or packing ice in a sealed Ziploc bag. You can always ask for ice water at most quick-service restaurants.
Guests are currently being security screened while wearing their bags or backpacks. If you have anything metal inside the bag, it will need to be removed and carried at arm’s length in front of you (my me, this means my umbrella, water bottle, and sunglasses case are things I must take out of the bag for security). If you forget, it’s no big deal, you just might get pulled aside for a quick check of your bag.
I hope this helps you with your planning for your holiday visit in just a couple weeks! When you are at EPCOT, I highly recommend
mobile ordering a Werther’s Original Gingerbread Caramel Cookie Cookie Sandwich from
Karamell-Kuche in Germany. You will NOT be disappointed.
Happy Traveling (& Happy Holidays!),
Tracy