Hi Tera,
I'm happy you checked in with this question because a lot of guests worry about whether they can keep their purses, backpacks and totes with them on rides and attractions at Walt Disney World. The answer is an unequivocal YES!
Every ride at Walt Disney World allows you to keep your possessions with you. Usually, that's in a pouch in front of you on rides like
Expedition Everest or beneath your seat on experiences such as
Star Tours. If you have a tote or a backpack that is too large for the pouch, you can stow it at your feet on virtually every ride, including
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, which circles upside down. (The centrifugal force holds it to the floor, but I usually put my leg through the strap for extra safety).
Your bag remains at arm's length all the time with a couple of exceptions: As you soar over Pandora on
Avatar Flight of Passage, your belongings ride in a bin a couple of feet behind you. And at
Soarin' Around the World, if your bag is too large for the under-seat compartment, it simply sits on the floor at your take-off point until you float back down to the same spot.
You are welcome to keep your bags with you, too, on
Kali River Rapids at Animal Kingdom, but because you tend to get pretty wet, guests may choose to leave their electronic devices or other water-sensitive items in the complimentary lockers at the ride's entrance.
I hope that puts your mind at ease, Tera. I recommend keeping the size of your bag as small as possible so that you aren't weighed down during your day. I prefer a cross-body bag or light tote for essentials, such as my phone, a water bottle, a disposable rain poncho and sunscreen.
Thanks again for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel. And don't hesitate to let us know if we can help in any other ways as you plan your visit. Enjoy!
Wilma