**this blog post will update as things change (or I get better pictures) so save the link and check back occasionally!**
Yes you’re going to do some major shopping while visiting Disney, but there’s a few items you should definitely have ahead of your arrival to make the trip easier!
When you go to Google to search for what you need, you’re going to be overwhelmed. Avoid the thousands of blogs and just stick with the basic things for now. As you become more knowledgeable in your Disney experiences, you’ll learn what fits YOU.
The Amazon links are affiliate links and I do earn a tiny commission if you purchase from it

Let’s start with the key ingredient: the backpack!
Some bags you can only purchase on Disney property, like my blue 50th Anniversary bag on the left, but Loungefly has hundreds of amazing designs too, like my bag on the right, featuring all the Disney Villains!
These make great carry-on bags for your flight, but also fare well through the parks and on rides.
Here’s my entire Disney Backpack Essentials Amazon List
The Brita Filtered Water Bottle
While I have the 36oz bottle, it’s a bit tight in my Loungefly backback, so I’d recommend going with the 26oz bottle instead. There’s no issues with my 50th Anniversary bag, but that backpack was bigger than most options I had found on that trip too. I’m pretty picky on how water tastes, so this helps me stay hydrated on hot days without suffering. You can refill your water for free throughout the parks!

A Thin Wallet
The perk of having a small backpack is how light it is, but you need to make sure you’re not weighing it down with bulky items! I personally put my cards in Dennis’ wallet and use my Disney Magic Band to pay for items, but I like having my ID and a credit card just in case. This thin wallet has lots of great reviews!
Reusable Straws
I have super sensitive teeth, so cold drinks need straws! None of us are fans of paper straws, so we purchased these Collapsible Portable Foldable Metal Straws with silicone tips (because who likes metal on their teeth?) and they go everywhere with us! Each has a little clip, so I hook mine on my bag zipper, and is very lightweight.


The Frogg Poncho
I get it, I was skeptical too about a piece of plastic to keep the rain off…I even thought, “Oh it’s June, it won’t rain!” but then Florida laughed at me and rained anyway. It’s one thing being hot, it’s a whole other world being wet and hot. You’re a human bog. Just get a poncho.
Plus, the quality is far better than those you’d get at Disney. These are bulky and take up some room, so checking your daily weather the morning of your park day will save you time and room when it’s 100% not needed.
It’s one of those mom things…you gotta have spf!
Sunbum is my favorite brand and we only use the mineral sunscreen at the Diersing household thanks to a random allergy Meadow has towards chemical SPF. Yes, you’ll have a white film for a little bit, but get it soaked in your skin and you won’t see it…or else you won’t care because it’s Florida, and it’s hot.

Depending on your needs, there’s some other key items to pack!
(or just click this Amazon link to see the entire list)
- Here’s my favorite walking shoes
- Portable Rechargable Fan (I just ordered this and will give a better review when it arrives)
- I don’t like headbands, so here’s some clip-on Minnie Ears!
- Minnie Bow Fanny Pack
- Dental Floss Picks (we eat a lot of food….sooooo)

The last item you’ll want to get are some trading pins! Throughout the parks and hotels, you’ll find pin trading stations. It’s usually a standing Mickey shaped board with pins on it and an attendant close by. If you see a pin on the board you love, you can trade one of your own for it! It’s a fun little hunt and a great way to stop and catch your breath before running off to your next ride or show.
Did I miss anything? Have something to add? Leave a comment!

