Vacation Tools & Packing Lists for Disney and Universal Trips

Planning your Disney or Universal vacation is exciting, but packing can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve created a helpful collection of tools, including a complete packing list and recommended items to bring on your trip. From theme park essentials like comfortable shoes, cooling towels, and autograph books to family travel must-haves such as snacks, ponchos, and portable chargers, this guide ensures you’ll be prepared for every magical moment. With these resources, you can pack smarter, travel lighter, and focus on making unforgettable memories. 

Disneyland Resort Hotel Grand Californian

Packing tools and tips for your next Disney or Universal vacation:

  • Tip #1- Purchase toiletries, medication, and non-perishable items BEFORE your vacation (you don’t want to be stuck buying at the gift shops)
  • Tip #2- Disney resorts will allow you to directly ship your purchases to their resorts up to 2 weeks before your arrival.  The resort will hold your package for a small fee (approximately $6) until you are ready to pick it up. Include the resort name, address, the word “guest”, your name and arrival date on the shipping label.
  • Tip #3- Both Disney and Universal Studios allow you to order same day delivery services from outside vendors.  UberEats, Door Dash, Instacart, Target, etc. can make deliveries to the resorts (not to your room).  You can receive them in the lobby. 
  • Tip #4- If you have a Target Red Card, you can purchase Disney Gift Cards before your trip at a 5% discount.  The gift cards can be used almost anywhere on Disney property including to pay for your resort stay.  
  • Tip #5- Bring a backpack to the parks!  No one wants to carry around shopping bags, leftovers, etc while at the theme parks.  Travel with a backpack and keep your hands free and easy.  See my packing list below for ideas on a sturdy option.  You can have it shipped to your resort before you arrive along with many other items.  You don’t have to worry about packing them. See tip #2
  • Tip#6- Bring plastic baggies!  Imagine a downpour, a water ride, or leftovers…Ziplock!  For phone protection on Splash Mountain to soggy clothes or a very used poncho, USE baggies!  You can purchase and ship to your resort 2 weeks ahead of time.  You can also purchase the day you arrive then have them delivered along with other items on my packing list below.
  • Tip#7- Bring your own food to the parks.  Disney and Universal will allow you to bring in your own food (no ice or ice packs).  Pack some snacks or protein bars Frozen peanut butter sandwiches are wonderful.  Bring some juice boxes, water bottles, etc.  Food at the parks is unique and different but EXPENSIVE.  
  • Tip#8- It is very important to drink water regularly throughout the day in the hot Florida sun.  Bring your own water bottle!  There are refilling stations around the parks.  In addition, you can get FREE cups of ice water at any food counter station around the parks and resorts.  Don’t buy expensive bottles of water once you’re in the parks.  You can also bring your own disposable water bottles 
  • Tip #9- It rains almost daily in Florida, particularly in the summer.  Wear water friendly shoes because in addition to the rain, there are several opportunities for little feet and big feet to get wet.  I recommend Dream Pairs for the women.  It is what I use and wear.  I have found them to be the most comfortable, inexpensive and durable.  
  • Tip #10- Pack portable cell phone chargers.  There is nothing worse than using Disney Genie to navigate the parks only to have your battery drain at warp speed as a result.  Have portable batter chargers on hand.  Also, there are fuel rod exchange stations at various locations around the park to exchange used ones for fully charged fuel rods.  

For additional help, check out blogs page as well as KC’s Corner Views on YouTube for more tips and tricks on having your best trip!  

 

business card

As I am an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

My Packing List for a Vacation to Disney/Universal

Oh hi there 👋
It’s nice to meet you.

Sign up to receive awesome content in your inbox, every month.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.