Whether you are driving or flying, you want to make sure you pack everything you need. So, what do you need to pack? I always look at the 10 day forecast to get an idea of what to expect for temperatures. Generally speaking, the Florida summers are hot and humid. The spring time tends to be cool enough for a light jacket in the mornings and at night, but warm enough for short sleeves during the afternoons.
For my family, I pack one set of clothes for each day. Then, I add three extra sets of everything. We are not a matchy-matchy family. My handsome husband and wild boys would revolt if I tried to make them wear matching Disney shirts. They do allow for color coordination. I’m not sure they are aware of how everyone has on a shade of blue, or a hint of orange in their outfits. But, it does make for nice family photos. I don’t know about y’all, but we take a lot of pictures on vacation. Inevitably, one of our vacation photos ends up on the yearly Christmas-New Year’s card.
An outfit a day, plus three extra has always served us well. Disney pools are heated, so we bring two swim suits per person. No one likes putting on a cold, partially wet swim suit. We also bring our own ponchos. I love Disney souvenirs, but don’t want to spend my vacation money on ponchos. There is a good chance it will rain at least once during your trip. An external battery charger for the phone has proven invaluable, especially now that both boys are old enough to have a phone. Band aids, sunscreen, and blister block stick are must haves. My boys travel in tennis shoes and pack flip-flops for the pool, and deck/boat shoes for nice dinners. The same for the hubby. I strongly suggest you take your most comfortable two or three pairs. No matter how comfortable your favorite pair of shoes may be, after walking seven to ten miles in them, you will feel so much better slipping into a different pair in the evening.
Beyond that, you really don’t need much more than your toiletries. Disney resorts provide hair dryers, shampoo, conditioner, soap and lotion. The Disney H2O brand of bath and body products is a favorite in our house. The hubby has even purchased some to bring home. Disney even provides mosquito repellent in the parks.
I do suggest packing small snacks. My boys love any kind of jerky, and trail mix. Both are great sources of protein and pack in a suitcase pretty easily. I tried granola bars and cheese crackers once. No one wanted them because they were crumbled by the time we got to the parks.
Don’t forget to keep the magic bands in the carry on. You will need those to get on Disney’s Magic Express, the complimentary bus service from the airport to the resort. I usually pack the boys’ swimsuits in the carry on, as well. After a long flight, or car ride, they need some to release some extra energy. After a quick swim for the boys, and a beverage by the pool for mom and dad the vacation is official! We’re all more relaxed and ready to hit the parks after a little down time.
If you’d like to read more about what to pack The Educational Tourist has some awesome tips, too!
Pixie Dust Queen 