Don't ruin your Disney World vacation! Learn from these packing blunders. Forget bulky items; prioritize lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes. Ditch uncomfortable shoes for supportive sneakers. Avoid overpacking; a well-planned packing list is key. Leave valuables at home, and remember essentials like sunscreen, portable chargers, and refillable water bottles.
1. Forgetting Comfortable Shoes (and Blister Relief!)
Mistake: Relying on fashionable but impractical footwear. Think those cute sandals or stiff new sneakers. Your feet will be screaming by lunchtime.
Instead: Pack broken-in, supportive walking shoes. Seriously, broken-in is key! Add gel inserts for extra cushioning. And absolutely bring blister relief! Moleskin, blister bandages, and even preventative blister balm can be lifesavers. You'll be walking miles each day, so prioritize comfort over style. Consider bringing two pairs of shoes in case one gets wet or uncomfortable.
2. Overpacking Clothes (and Underpacking Essentials)
Mistake: Packing a suitcase overflowing with outfits you might wear. This leaves less room for the things you'll actually need.
Instead: Plan outfits strategically. Pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Utilize packing cubes to compress clothing and save space. More importantly, prioritize essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and reusable water bottles. Consider laundry services at your resort if you're staying for an extended period. Don't forget items such as ponchos, lightweight rain jackets, and cooling towels!
3. Ignoring the Florida Sun
Mistake: Underestimating the intensity of the Florida sun. A sunburn can ruin your trip quickly.
Instead: Pack high SPF sunscreen (at least SPF 30) and apply it liberally and frequently. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are also essential for protecting your face and eyes. Consider sun protection clothing, like shirts with UPF ratings. Don't forget lip balm with SPF to protect your lips!
4. Neglecting Hydration
Mistake: Assuming you can rely on purchasing water throughout the parks. This gets expensive quickly, and you might not always find a convenient spot.
Instead: Bring a reusable water bottle for each member of your family. Many quick-service restaurants offer free cups of ice water. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the hotter months. Consider water bottles with built-in filters or electrolyte tablets to add to your water for enhanced hydration.
5. Forgetting Pain Relief and First-Aid
Mistake: Assuming Disney will provide everything you need for minor ailments.
Instead: Pack a small first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen), antiseptic wipes, bandages, motion sickness medication (if needed), and any personal medications. You can find pre-made travel first-aid kits, or create your own to tailor it to your family's needs.
6. Overlooking Portable Chargers
Mistake: Draining your phone battery constantly using the My Disney Experience app for ride reservations, mobile ordering, and capturing memories.
Instead: Pack a portable charger or two! A fully charged power bank is a lifesaver for keeping your phone powered throughout the day. Consider a charger with multiple ports if you have multiple devices. A charging cable is also a must!
7. Forgetting Ziploc Bags
Mistake: Not having a way to protect valuables from water or store snacks.
Instead: Pack a variety of Ziploc bags in different sizes. They're perfect for protecting your phone and camera on water rides, storing snacks, and keeping wet clothes separate from dry ones. They're also great for organizing small items in your backpack.
8. Skimping on Entertainment for Downtime
Mistake: Relying solely on Disney entertainment and forgetting about downtime at the resort or on transportation.
Instead: Pack a few books, travel games, or downloaded movies for downtime. This is especially helpful for keeping kids entertained on long bus rides or while waiting in line. Coloring books, sticker books, and card games are also great options.
9. Underestimating the Florida Weather
Mistake: Assuming Florida is always hot and sunny.
Instead: Be prepared for anything! Pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, even if the forecast looks clear. Sudden downpours are common. Also, evenings can be cooler, especially during the winter months, so pack a light sweater or jacket. Layers are your friend!
10. Forgetting Small Comfort Items
Mistake: Neglecting the little things that can make a big difference in your comfort.
Instead: Consider packing items like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, a small sewing kit (for minor wardrobe malfunctions), and earplugs (for noisy hotel rooms). A small travel-sized bottle of Febreze can also be helpful for refreshing clothes after a long day in the parks.
What to Pack Instead (Summary Table)
Here's a quick reference guide to help you avoid those packing pitfalls:
Mistake |
What to Bring Instead |
Estimated Cost (From) |
|---|
Uncomfortable Shoes |
Broken-in walking shoes, gel inserts, blister relief |
$20 |
Overpacked Clothes, no Essentials |
Strategic outfits, packing cubes, sunscreen, insect repellent |
$15 |
Ignoring the Sun |
High SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF |
$20 |
Neglecting Hydration |
Reusable water bottle |
$10 |
Forgetting First-Aid |
Small first-aid kit with pain relief, bandages, etc. |
$10 |
No Portable Charger |
Portable charger and charging cable |
$15 |
Forgetting Ziploc Bags |
Variety of Ziploc bags (various sizes) |
$4 |
No Downtime Entertainment |
Books, travel games, downloaded movies |
$5 |
Underestimating Weather |
Lightweight rain jacket/poncho, sweater/jacket |
$15 |
Forgetting Comfort Items |
Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, sewing kit, earplugs |
$10 |
By avoiding these common packing mistakes and bringing the right essentials, you can focus on enjoying the magic of Disney World without unnecessary stress or expense. Happy packing!
