When you visit the Disney parks, you’ll want to make sure you bring everything you need with you for the day. For me, the amount that I bring depends on whether or not I am traveling with kids.
When I travel with kids, I generally need to pack more than when I’m solo. However, even if I’m on my own, I still need to pack a few essentials for the day. This includes my wallet, phone, portable charger, sunscreen, lip balm, tissues, water, and medication.
The type of things you pack will influence the type of bag you’ll need to bring. In this post, we’ll talk about what to look for in your bag for Disney World and Disneyland, as well as our favorite bags. This is not an exhaustive list of bags, however – there are lots of options.
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The Best Bags for Disney World and Disneyland
What To Look For
If you are traveling with a baby, you’ll need to bring a diaper bag with a full supply of diapers, wipes, food, etc. In that case, you’ll want to bring a larger bag. If you are using a stroller, you may be able to store that bag under the stroller so you don’t have to tote it around for the entire day.
Otherwise, it’s a good idea to pack a bag that doesn’t get in your way, easily can be stored in the ride vehicle when on attractions, and is large enough to store what you need. Here are some things to consider:
- A water bottle holder can be useful if you are carrying around water (and you should)
- If you are going on any rides that go upside down, you’ll want a zipper enclosure on your bag
- A lightweight bag is essential for a long day at the parks
- Hands-free, wearable bags are a great option if traveling solo
Here are some of our favorite bags:
Beis Sports Sling
I’ve raved about Beis bags before. Their Weekender Bag is one of my favorite personal items for flying. For theme parks (and even other travel), the Beis Sports Sling is one of my favorites.
This crossbody bag is the perfect size – big enough for essentials, but not too big to wear. It includes an adjustable crossbody strap, a hidden water bottle pocket, a fabric pocket for sunglasses, a key leash, and a card organizer.
The Beis Sports Sling comes in several different colors. It does sell out frequently, however, so I recommend purchasing it if you see it available. You can get $15 off your first purchase of $100 with this link.
Lululemon Belt Bag
The Lululemon Belt Bag is ubiquitous for a good reason. This bag is simple and stylish, making it a great bag to use if you are planning on visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland.
As the name describes, this is a crossbody bag that in the past, would be considered a fanny pack. It is small, so while that means it will mostly be out of your way, it also doesn’t hold as much as some of these other bags. I find the Lululemon crossbody bag to be best when I’m traveling solo and don’t need to bring much along.
The Lululemon Belt Bag is available in many different colors, so you can find something suitable for your style. I prefer the black one, just because it’s neutral and works with any outfit.
Rope Drop Backpack
The Rope Drop backpack, as you can guess from the name, was designed specifically for theme park days at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. As a result, it really does work as a great theme park bag for most occasions.
The Rope Drop backpack is available in a variety of different patterns and colors, including sparkle, plaid, and polka dots. I have the standard black as I feel it’s the most neutral.
Features of the Rope Drop Backdrop include the following:
- Schweitzer Hydration Kit
- Two elastic storage pockets (to store water bottles)
- A hidden net that can be attached and used for additional storage
- Two side pockets
- Strap and buckle to hold ear headbands (that you purchase separately)
- Small holes on the front pocket to display pins (that you purchase separately)
- Vegan leather
I used this bag extensively during my trip to Disneyland in February and loved it. I had plenty of room in the bag, and although it’s not marketed as waterproof, it did resist the rain that got on it.
You can find the Rope Drop Backpack here.
Anti-Theft Travel Bag
If you need more space but want a hands-free crossbody bag, this Anti-Theft Travel Bag is a good option. It’s sleek and stylish, with an adjustable, lightly padded crossbody strap.
The bag has one large interior pocket, as well as several smaller exterior pockets. It comes in a few different colors, including gray, black, blue, and pink.
You can purchase the Anti-Theft Travel Bag on Amazon.
Terra Laptop Backpack
Another great backpack option is the Terra Laptop Backpack from Calpak. Even though this is marketed as a laptop backpack, it isn’t very big. It’s small enough to use as a day bag at Walt Disney World or Disneyland.
The Terra Laptop Backpack is made from recycled water bottles, and includes the following features:
- Adjustable padded shoulder strap
- Hydration Reservoir
- Luggage pass-through (great to use as a carry-on)
- Key leash
- Exterior side pockets
- Lots of exterior zipped pockets
Tote Bag
If you don’t want to purchase one of these bags, and would rather use a bag from home (but don’t have a travel backpack or crossbody bag), I’d recommend a tote bag. A tote bag can be easy to carry, as long as you don’t overfill it. Be sure to use a tote with a zipper on the top, so that you don’t need to worry about anything falling out.
