WHAT TO BRING TO DISNEY WORLD WITH A TODDLER
I’ll start by saying that no matter what, visiting Disney World is magical. Between the lights, music, and people, it’s truly one of the happiest places on Earth. (And I say that as a Florida native who has spent a lot of time at Disney World.)
However, we all know as parents there are things that can make a trip with a toddler much easier! I have a Walt Disney World with a toddler guide here, but I didn’t provide a packing list.
It’s something I get asked for a lot on Instagram, so I thought I’d share that today. If you’ve read any of my past Disney World trip tips, you know I always recommend packing light!
For most attractions, you have to leave your strollers parked outside, meaning you probably don’t want a bunch of expensive or personal items left behind. I have a rule of thumb that I only pack what can fit into one backpack.
I recommend you have a similar boundary! Maybe two backpacks if absolutely necessary and if you’re traveling with another adult.
So, here’s my list of toddler Disney World packing essentials that can all fit into a backpack:
WHAT TO BRING TO DISNEY WORLD WITH A TODDLER
Backpack
As I mentioned, everything should fit in one backpack. I like to use backpacks specifically because your hands are always free while you’re wearing them.
This backpack diaper bag is one of my favorites for a few reasons. I like that it’s comfortable, unisex, and comes with a large changing pad.
It’s also not too big or too small and has lots of organized pockets to store and find what you need easily. You’ll be pleased to find it’s well made too, and won’t break after your second (or sixth) Disney trip.
Disney World App
EVERYTHING can be found here on the app.
You can make dining reservations, manage your fast passes, view park maps, find cast members, look at your photo pass, and so much more.
Disney World runs on movie magic and this app. So, though it’s not something you pack, it is something you want to be sure you have!
Stroller or Wagon
Next, I recommend you bring a stroller or wagon. Of course, I understand that there are logistic issues if you’re flying in. However, if you have the means, bring your own stroller or wagon.
There are usually long lines for the Disney rental strollers and they’re not as comfortable or versatile as your own stroller or wagon. (Although, they do have both single and double strollers.)
I also definitely don’t advise you to go without a stroller or wagon, even if your child can walk. It’s just too much walking for little legs, and you don’t want to be carrying your toddler all over the park.
Plus, you might get sick of holding the backpack or bags of souvenirs. The stroller or wagon can help lighten the load a little!
Snacks and Snack Containers
One of the most important items to fill your backpack with is snacks. Food and drink options are all expensive! Additionally, you don’t want to be waiting in line every time your child needs a fruit snack fix.
So, bring a snack container for your toddler that will last you the whole day. I linked to a clear grid container that’s lightweight and stores quite a few snacks!
You can purchase some of your child’s favorite snacks before you go, and you could also try some healthy homemade options from the Mothercould recipe catalog!
Here are some of my favorite treats to make and take for a Disney trip:
Fro-Yo Drops (store these in a Thermos)
Set of Extra Clothes
I recommend bringing one set of extra clothes for your toddler. You may feel tempted to bring more, but I don’t think it’s worth the extra space in your backpack.
On the off-chance your child does soil two outfits, there are obviously lots of gift shops to buy clothes. They’re expensive, yes, but your toddler won’t be stuck in wet clothes for the whole trip!
Stick with one set of clothes!
Poncho (even if there is no rain in the forecast).
Florida is known for its unpredictable weather. Take ponchos with you regardless of the weather forecast.
The last time we went to Disney, there was only one cloud in the sky and no chance of rain and it down-poured while we were at Animal Kingdom!
Always bring a poncho!
Diapers (or pull-ups/underwear)
This one is obvious, but ensure you bring along plenty of diapers/pull-ups/underwear for your toddler.
They do have Baby Care Centers throughout the park if you run out or forget, but prepare to pay a premium price for basic diapering supplies. Also, they may not have your needed size.
Use a lot of the space in your backpack to pack plenty of diapers!
Wipes
Wipes are another must-have. Of course, they’re needed for diaper changes, but they’re also perfect for sticky hands, dirty surfaces, and other messes.
Wipes will always come in handy, so be sure to bring them along.
Changing Pad
Bathrooms at any amusement park are going to have lines—especially women’s restrooms. So, a changing mat is helpful for diaper changes anywhere.
This extra-large pad is toddler-friendly and can also be used as a play mat or picnic spot for your little one. Regardless of your situation, this changing pad will come in handy.
Small First Aid Kit
There are First Aid Stations around the park, but you never know if they’ll be where you need them to be. And you don’t want to be stopping for a small cut or scrape.
This first aid kit won’t take up much space in your bag but has everything you need for a day trip. In a pinch, you could even pull out those stickers for some cheap entertainment while in line for a ride!
Note: I advise you to take out the scissors before going to the park. They’re not strictly prohibited, but they're in that gray area of “other harmful or disruptive items.”
Sunscreen and Sunscreen Brush
Rain or shine, clouds or clear skies, you need sunscreen. Pack some mineral sunscreen and a Mothercould Sunscreen Brush!
I designed these specifically to get an even coat of sunscreen every time without the mess. A brush definitely warrants a place in your backpack!
If you’re not a lotion sunscreen person, you can also grab a natural spray sunscreen like this one. Either way, re-coat every two hours.
Hat
A sunhat will also protect your little one from the sun. It’ll shield their eyes, face, and scalp while you walk and ride.
The tie is key to keeping in their heads while at attractions or playing about the park.
Water Bottle
You can bring your own water bottles into Disney World as long as they aren’t glass, so grab a plastic or stainless steel water bottle for your toddler.
Fill it up before you leave, but I wouldn’t waste backpack space with extra water and liquids unless your child is really particular about what they drink. There are plenty of water fountains around the park to refill!
Mister or Neck Fans
It can get HOT in Florida. Toddlers aren’t good at determining when they’re overheating and it can be dangerous when spending the whole day outside and sweating.
A mister or toddler neck fan has been essential to keeping our kids cool at Disney World. Just make sure you take the neck fans off before riding any rides!
Cheap Tossable Toys
There isn’t a way to go to Disney World and completely avoid lines. And as we all know, toddlers aren’t the most patient creatures.
To combat boredom and avoid fits during long wait times, I always bring inexpensive activities that could be lost, broken, or tossed and they wouldn’t be missed.
You could pack something like this water ring toss game, Wikki Stix, or these bubble blowers. However, any time is a good time for sensory play!
We like to bring DIY sensory activities like slime, play dough, and activity bags. Here are some sensory activities you could make in advance and bring with you:
Air Tags
As I mentioned, you’ll have to leave your stroller and personal items behind for most attractions. Use Air Tags and this mount to attach Air Tags to your backpack and stroller.
You can even put an Air Tag on a bracelet and put it on your toddler. It can’t hurt! The added layer of security definitely adds to the peace of mind and allows you to focus on enjoying the trip!
Shoes
Finding the right shoes for Disney World is very important. Not only do they need to be comfortable for a lot of walking, but they also need to dry quickly, because you’ll probably get wet.
Whether it’s a sudden rain shower or a run through a splash pad, your toddler’s shoes won’t stay dry. Bring shoes that can dry quickly, won’t give blisters, and can be worn with or without socks.
Crocs are always a top choice, but I also like these sandals, slides, and slip-ons. All the Disney parks require plenty of walking, there’s no avoiding it, so make sure the whole family is comfortable.
Disney World Toddler Packing List
Disney World with toddlers doesn’t have to be complicated!
Disney vacations and weekend trips are always exciting. No matter how many times I go, I still am eager to return.
Use this packing list to prepare your backpack for a day at Disney. And if you want to know what to pack in your luggage when traveling with a toddler, I’ve got small children packing hacks too!
For more parenting tips, sensory activities, and handy recipes, check out the Mothercould blog and my Instagram page. I have the tools you need to make every day fun, stimulating, and memorable!