Lets start with the basics - your bag

What you bring—or choose not to bring—will play a big role in determining the size and type of bag you’ll need. When planning your Disney day, consider your own comfort level. Personally, I prefer to carry just the bare necessities and keep things as light as possible. That means skipping the bulky, sweaty backpack and opting for something smaller, like a fanny pack or compact utility bag.

Also, consider who you're traveling with—your party can drastically affect how you pack. When I go with my partner, we split the essentials between our bags so we can each carry something small and lightweight. But when I’m with my best friend’s family, I don’t even need my own bag—they prefer to bring one large backpack that everyone shares, plus they make good use of the stroller for extra storage.

And don’t forget: your bag is also a chance to show off some Disney flair! This is where Disney swag comes in, and what better option than a Loungefly! These backpacks are super popular for a reason—they’re adorable, practical, and just the right size for a day at the parks.

Whether you go with a fanny pack, a mid-size bag, a big backpack, or a classic Loungefly, the key is to make it work for you.

Want to see some of our Loungefly picks?

Your Glass Slippers: Shoes

When it comes to Disneyland, your shoes are one of the most important things you’ll wear. You’ll be walking anywhere from 8 to 12 miles a day, so comfort is a must. Look for supportive, breathable shoes that are already broken in. If you want new shoes, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to break them in. Athletic brands like HOKA, Brooks, or New Balance are great popular choices. 

A pro tip: get quality moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters, and if you're staying multiple days, consider alternating between two pairs of shoes to give your feet a break. My last visit, I alternated between my Adidas with Cloudfoam and my Nike Air Max. Whatever brand, make sure there's lots of support. Trust us—your feet will thank you from rope drop to fireworks.

Staying Hydrated — Reusable Water Bottles

Staying hydrated at Disney is non-negotiable—especially with all the walking, sunshine, and churros. My recommendation is bringing a reusable water bottle! There are free refill stations and quick-service spots that will gladly give you ice water that make it easy to avoid buying countless bottles of water. Bringing a reusable water bottle not only saves you money, but keeps you from constantly hunting down drinks. Plus it's an eco-friendly choice! Try a smaller bottle for a lighter load, a self filtering for if you fill up at an unfiltered water fountain, or a collapsible to consolidate space. Trust us—your future, parched self will thank you.

Beat the Heat: Fans

Let’s face it—Disneyland can get hot, especially during the spring and summer months. With long lines, big crowds, and very little shade, a portable fan can be the difference between magical and miserable. Whether it’s a handheld fan, a wearable neck fan, or one that mists water (yes, please!), having a way to cool down on the go is a total game-changer. It keeps you happier, prevents overheating, and gives you a much-needed breeze while waiting for rides or parades. Don’t underestimate the power of a little airflow—it might just save your Disney day.

Portable Chargers

Your phone is basically your lifeline at Disneyland—between checking wait times, mobile ordering food, snapping photos, Lightning Lane reservations, and navigating the park, your battery will drain fast. A portable charger isn’t just handy—it’s essential. There are some charging stations in the park, but who wants to waste park time tethered to a wall? Bring a compact, fully charged power bank so you can keep your phone alive all day long. Bonus points if it can charge more than one device—your whole party will thank you. Trust us, nothing kills the Disney magic like a dead phone before parade time.

First Aid Kit

Accidents happen—even in the happiest place on Earth. Whether it’s a surprise blister, a scraped knee, or a headache from too much sun, having a small first aid kit on hand can be a total lifesaver. While Disneyland does have First Aid stations, they’re not always nearby when you need them. Packing a few basics like band-aids, pain relievers, blister patches, allergy meds, and even motion sickness tablets can save time and keep everyone feeling good. It doesn’t need to be big—just enough to handle the small stuff so you can get back to the fun, fast.

Hand Sanitizer, Sunscreen, and More

Disneyland days are long, busy, and packed with all kinds of adventures—so packing a few health and hygiene essentials can make a huge difference in keeping you comfortable and feeling fresh. Hand sanitizer is a must-have for quick cleanups between rides and meals, while sunblock protects your skin from the relentless sun. A Tide To Go stick is a total game-changer when spills happen (and they will), and travel deodorant helps you stay fresh after hours of walking and waiting in line. Don’t forget chapstick to keep your lips hydrated, especially with all the walking and air conditioning, plus disposable brushes, toothpicks, and gum for quick touch-ups after snacks and meals. These little items might seem small, but they’ll keep you feeling confident and ready for anything the day throws at you! This is where you can personalize it to your personal needs!

Sunglasses

Between bright California/Florida sunshine and long days spent outdoors, sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement—they’re a necessity at Disneyland. Quality sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce glare while waiting in line or watching parades, and help prevent eye strain after hours of soaking in the magic. Plus, they add a stylish finishing touch to your Disney look. Opt for a comfortable, durable pair with good UV protection so you can see clearly and stay cool.

Disney Accessories:

The Magic Touch to Your Park Day

No Disneyland trip is complete without some classic Disney accessories to amp up the fun and show off your Disney spirit! Whether it’s a pair of iconic Mickey ears, a stylish hat, or a themed shirt, these little extras add personality and make your photos pop. An autograph book is a must-have for meeting characters—capturing memories and signatures that last long after the day ends. Don’t forget the pin lanyard, too—collecting and trading pins is a beloved park tradition that’s fun for all ages. These accessories aren’t just cute—they’re part of the magic that turns a regular day into a Disney adventure.

Essential to Some

These are my recommendations that drastically depend on your preferences and can change depending on what parks your going to, weather, or what your budget looks like:

Ponchos

At Disney World, ponchos are a must—rain is frequent, and having your own saves you from getting soaked or paying for the less effective park ponchos. I went to all four parks over the course of a week last year and got rained out half of the time I was there. In California, rain is less common, but if there’s a chance, (or if you want to stay dry on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure) bringing a lightweight, compact poncho is smart. Ponchos are easy to pack, quick to put on, and keep you dry without ruining your Disney style. Plus, rainy days in California parks mean fewer crowds, so it might even work to your advantage!

MagicBands

I got my MagicBand during a trip to Disney World, and it was a total game-changer—especially while staying at a Disney Resort. It worked as my park ticket, PhotoPass, room key, payment method, and Lightning Lane check-in, all in one. The system at Disney World is super smooth and well-integrated. While Disneyland’s MagicBand+ experience isn’t quite as seamless, I still use mine every time I go and love the convenience. Navigating the app for tickets or Lightning Lanes can be a little clunky, so wearing a MagicBand saves time and hassle by keeping everything just a tap away. Additionally, there are some fun interactive experiences in the park that are only activated with your MagicBand. Plus, they come in fun designs that add a bit of extra Disney flair to your outfit. If you want convenience and a touch of magic on your wrist, a MagicBand is a must-have.

I love splurging on iconic Disney snacks or trying a new TikTok trend - but they also can be pricey and not always nearby when hunger hits. Packing your own snacks saves money, keeps everyone happy between meals, and helps avoid hangry meltdowns in long lines. Whether it’s granola bars, trail mix, fruit snacks, or crackers, having a stash of quick bites on hand means fewer interruptions and more magic. Bonus: it’s great for picky eaters or anyone on a special diet!

Snacks

Don't Forget a Light Jacket or Sweatshirt

Even on warm days, mornings and evenings at Disney can get surprisingly chilly—especially if you’re staying for the nighttime shows. A lightweight jacket or sweatshirt is perfect for layering and easy to tie around your waist or stash in a backpack when it’s not needed. It’s one of those items you’ll be glad you brought when the sun goes down but the fun keeps going!

Final Thoughts

Packing for Disney is part of the adventure! With the right gear, you’ll be set up for magical memories instead of sore feet and sunburns. Think comfort, weather, and flexibility—and don’t forget your sense of wonder.

Now get packing… and may your trip be filled with magic, Mickey-shaped treats, and just the right amount of pixie dust! ✨

Want the quick checklist? Click here!