How to Survive Disney with Kids
Don’t go…JUST KIDDING! I’m a Disney mom ya’ll. We are annual pass holders and every time we’re in Florida, we’re at Disney. We usually go 2-3x per year and are usually at the parks almost everyday when we are down there. So I’ve gotten really good at knowing what we need and what we don’t. If you’re traveling with kiddos down to Florida or even California Disney anytime soon, then this is for you! These are my Disney must haves for kids! If you’re a Disney mom, and see something I missed, let me know in the comments! This might be a part one, we’ll see!
Everything I’ve Packed – Annual Passholder Approved!
Cooling Towels
These are a must have to survive the Florida Summer heat. The ones I’ve linked, I personally have and love. They come with little bags which makes it easy to just pour water inside to prep them for your littles. They also have clips you can use to attach them to your bag or stroller so they don’t get lost! I highly suggest you buy one per person. You can toss them in the wash and let them air dry over night to keep them nice and fresh. These are definitely a Disney must have when you have kids.
Fans
Another must have. I went and grabbed one fan per person as well. I didn’t want any fighting over fans. The ones I’ve linked here are the ones I personally have and love. They do have a flashlight, which isn’t super necessary for the summer. I’ve also linked a version that comes with a mist option!
Storage Bags
I use these at home for toys, but had extra so I stored my fans, cooling towels, ice cream holders and cup sleeves in there for easy grabbing. They’re also great to store toys!
Ice Cream Holders
I have 2 different styles linked here. We used them for our girls when they had a Mickey Mouse ice cream. It was perfect to keep it from getting them messy and it just took a quick wash in the bathroom to get them cleaned. But perfect for little ones who take forever to finish their ice cream too! These are definitely Disney must haves for kids!
Cup Sleeves
My SIL introduced me to cup sleeves for Disney and now I’m obsessed! Check out the ones I’ve linked below from Etsy!
Ponchos & Umbrellas
I think this is pretty self explanatory! You are visiting Florida of course! I have both on hand all the time at the parks just case we got a random shower and weren’t anywhere near a store to take cover.
Wet Bag & Extra Clothes
Accidents happen. Wet rides are fun! Might as well be prepared for both! Here are some cute wet bag options to have on hand just in case!
Step Counter For Momma
Momma, you’re at Disney but you might as well track your steps while you’re having fun! I did this and it honestly became a game for me to try and hit a certain number of steps everyday. Even if it meant one more walk around Main Street before I left!
Wipes
These will come in handy trust me! Baby wipes for faces and changing diapers of course, but also these Wet Wipes for sanitizing after touching all the walls and rails waiting in line! Lol
Gift Cards
If you have time to plan this out, start grabbing Disney gift cards before your trip! That way while you’re there you already have a preset amount of money you can spend on food, snacks, toys, coffee, etc..
Check Out More On My Disney Park Bag Essentials Here!
First Aid Kit
While Disney does offer this, I still suggest having a small first aid kit just in case something happens while you’re in line or just far away from the First Aid Center.
Fuel Rod/Portable Charger
If you have a Fuel Rod, these are the best at Disney! Once you’ve used up the power on them, you can swap them out for free and get a brand new rod to charge! You can grab one at the park for around $30-$32. It comes with a rod and different cables for different phones! Here are some other portable charger options! Personally, I love my Fuel Rod just because it’s a quick and easy swap, plus it’s free! I recently visited Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure, and while they have Fuel Rod stations there, you have to pay for your swaps!
Hats
Listen, the sun is hot! Using a hat to give your face some coverage will help you beat the heat!
Sunscreen
Again, self explanatory but you never know! I know people have different opinions on sunscreen and the type they prefer to use. I prefer mineral based and not chemical based. So those are the options that I have here. But you pick what is best for your family!
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If you’re prepping for a Disney trip, I hope this helps you! This list is just the first for my Disney must haves for kids. I’ll share a part 2 soon, so stick around!
xoxo
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring to Disney with kids? The non-negotiables for Disney with kids are cooling towels, portable fans, sunscreen, ponchos, a first aid kit, wet wipes, a portable charger or Fuel Rod, and plenty of snacks and water. If you’re visiting Florida in the summer, heat management items like cooling towels and fans are absolutely essential — don’t skip those.
How do you survive Disney in the Florida heat with little kids? Preparation is everything. One cooling towel and one fan per person makes a huge difference. Start your park days early before the heat peaks, take a midday break back at your resort during the hottest hours, and keep everyone hydrated with electrolyte packets mixed into water bottles. Hats for everyone help too — the sun is relentless in Florida!
Is Disney worth it with toddlers and young kids? Absolutely — but manage your expectations. Young kids won’t remember every ride but they will remember the magic, the characters, and being there with you. Keep the days shorter, prioritize what matters most to your family, and don’t try to do everything. A relaxed Disney day is a magical Disney day.
What is a Fuel Rod and do you really need one at Disney? A Fuel Rod is a portable phone charger that you can swap out for a freshly charged one at stations throughout Disney parks — for free after your initial purchase. With the amount of photos, videos, and Disney app usage you’ll do in a day, your phone WILL die without one. It’s one of the most practical things you can bring.
How do you pack light for Disney with kids? Use a lightweight backpack or park bag and be strategic about what goes in it. Pack one outfit change per toddler, keep first aid minimal, and use storage bags to organize small items so you’re not digging through everything. The lighter your bag the happier your shoulders will be by hour eight in the park!
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