As a previous Walt Disney World Cast Member and a frequent guest at Walt Disney World, I have shared a few posts on ideas for what to pack to Walt Disney World. However, what should you not pack for Disney World? There are several things you might consider leaving at home.
I completely understand the urge to pack your entire closet to Disney World. We live across the country near Seattle, Washington, and I am always afraid we are going to forget something. However, I find that over-packing for a Walt Disney World vacation only leaves us with less room for souvenirs and the dreaded packing game on the last day of vacation. Save yourself the stress with these tips for what not to pack to Disney.
More Walt Disney World Packing Tips: Simple Packing List for Walt Disney World
What Not to Pack for Walt Disney World
Don’t Pack Bug Spray
Did you know that Walt Disney World as insect repellent stations located throughout their parks? If you are in need of bug spray, you can find some for free at these locations. You can also ask a Cast Member where the closest station is at any time during your stay.
Leave the Wagons at Home
Walt Disney World now has stricter policies regarding strollers. Wagons are not permitted within the parks and strollers that are greater than 31-inches in width and 52-inches in length are also not permitted. You will also not be able to bring these into water-parks or indoor venues at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
Think About What You Pack for Reading Material
Let’s be honest. We all have those dreams of lounging by the pool with a good book doing nothing on vacation. Reality? Probably not the vacation you’re going to have with the entire family.
I recommend thinking about what type of vacation you are taking to Walt Disney World before packing things like books or magazines. They are great for the plane ride if you aren’t entertaining small children. If you aren’t taking a solo trip or a couple’s trip, you might find your reading time to be minimal and not worth bringing along a handful of books. I love to read but when I’m at Walt Disney World, I barely find the time.
Most First Aid Items
Every park has a First Aid center where things like bandaids and over-the-counter medications are complimentary or can be purchased for very little cost. Thermometers and nurses are also available for further medical attention should anyone begin feeling ill. I personally like to keep bandaids on hand and some headache medication but should you opt to not pack them, they are easily accessible. However, don’t forget to pack your prescribed medications and know that anything that needs to be refrigerated during the day, First Aid centers can do that for you.
External Batteries
Tired of charging them all prior to your trip or finding outlets throughout the hotel room? Never fear! FuelRod Power Stations are a great alternative to packing a handful of backup batteries to charge devices while in the parks.
After a one-time cost ($30, subject to change), you can exchange the FuelRod at any FuelRod Power Station for a fully charged external battery. With the initial purchase, you receive the battery and various cables for select devices.
Keep in mind that you might want to keep your own personal phone charging cord on hand simply because FuelRod might not offer your device’s cable and they are shorter than standard phone cords. I learned the hard way of buying one with a newer Android model phone only to find out they didn’t have my cable in the battery casing. I had to go back and get my cord from the room.
If you choose to purchase a FuelRod, they are quite convenient and make it easy to charge devices while at Disney World. Plus, they can be used at Disneyland and many other locations around the United States and abroad.
Don’t Overpack Clothing
I am the queen of overpacking clothing for our kids. I can survive out of a carry-on, no problem. However, I seem to think my kids will need endless clothing while on vacation. Don’t overpack clothing, it isn’t worth it.
Try to sort out how many days you are going, what you will be wearing each day, and then pack. Remember to accommodate a few extra changes for water rides or if something drastically spills. Also, remember that the hotels have laundry rooms if needed. They are only a few dollars to run a load or two and detergent isn’t that expensive in the vending machines. I’ve utilized these a few times to wash our clothes before returning home for easier packing (more room without the dirty clothes bag) and less to do when I get home.
Don’t Bring a Tripod for Your Camera
I debate every vacation if I am even going to bring my DSLR or not. I am usually opting in bringing it because I always fear to miss that great shot. However, I never bring a tripod or selfie-stick. They are not allowed in the parks.
You can bring a small monopod that does not extend to help steady your camera. I have a few tips on Disney photography on my blog here that mentions places you can utilize to steady your camera when you don’t have a tripod.
Related: Disney World Photography Tips
These are a few things that you might reconsider packing for Walt Disney World. If you have any other ideas, be sure to leave them below in the comments. I always enjoy learning more about what other people do or don’t bring to Walt Disney World.
More Walt Disney World Tips:
- What NOT To Do On Walt Disney World Arrival Day
- Best Places to Get Ice Cream at Walt Disney World
- Should You Use a Stroller at Walt Disney World?
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