Updated on October 30, 2024
If you’re planning your visit and wondering about the things to bring to Disney, we’re here to help! As a Disneyland® Resort Good Neighbor Hotel just ½ a mile from the parks, we see plenty of excited Disney fans every day. With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget something important. We hate seeing smiles fade when guests realize they left something behind—talk about a rocky start to a vacation!
We want to make sure your Disney experience is magical and stress-free. With that in mind, we put together some of the top items you should bring on your Disneyland® Resort vacation and some packing tips and tricks to get your trip started on the right foot.
1. Tickets
No one wants to start their Disneyland® Resort experience waiting in line. You’ll save a lot of time if you buy your tickets ahead of time. Head over to the Disneyland® Resort website to purchase tickets and see all of the experiences that you can be part of!
2. Small backpack and lanyard
You’ll want to have a small, easily accessible backpack or over-the-shoulder bag to carry around at the parks. Bonus points if it’s waterproof or water-resistant in case it rains or you go on any of the amazing water rides.
You need a bag that not only holds all your essentials but is also easy and comfortable to carry. Lanyards are another must-have to hold your wallet, park tickets, and FastPasses.
According to Disneyland® Resort park rules, all suitcases, bags, coolers, and backpacks, with or without wheels, must be no larger than 24″ x 15″ x 18″ (61 cm x 38 cm x 46 cm). Items exceeding these dimensions are not permitted inside the theme parks. Disneyland® Resort also reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to restrict the use or storage of any other items deemed potentially harmful or disruptive. Read more of Disneyland® Resort park rules for more information.
3. Personal hygiene items
Packing a few small essentials in your backpack can ensure you stay safe and comfortable while on the go. Even if you don’t end up needing these hygiene items, you’ll be glad to have them handy—avoiding the need to cut your day short or make a trip back to your hotel or car. Opt for travel-sized versions to keep things light and convenient.
- Sunscreen
- Hand Sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Aloe vera
- Chapstick
- Tissues
- Bandaids
- Pain reliever
- Earplugs/ear protection
- Deodorant
- Hand Lotion
4. Rain poncho
Anaheim weather is typically pretty perfect but can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to walk around soaking wet. Rain ponchos are generally cheap and fold up easily in your bag, making them a better option than an umbrella. You can also wear them on water rides or sit on them during parades!
5. Chargers/extra batteries
From taking pictures to checking social media to staying in touch with family or friends,, chances are you’ll be using your phone a lot during your visit to Disneyland® Park.
To avoid running out of battery, consider bringing a rechargeable battery pack, which is perfect for on-the-go charging when outlets aren’t available. It’s also a good idea to toss an extra wall charger into your bag for when you find a place to plug in or need to recharge your battery pack.
While we’re on the topic, don’t miss our list of must-have apps to download for your Disneyland vacation before you head to the parks!
(P.S. While we specifically mentioned phones, the same goes for other electronics you’re bringing into the park too, like cameras and tablets.)
6. Autograph book & pens
An autograph book and pens are a must if you have kids or you just geek out over seeing your favorite Disney characters!
There are autograph books available on-site and at various shops in the Anaheim area, but you’ll likely be paying more than if you brought your own from home. If you’re a DIY person or looking to save money, there are lots of fun options and ideas online to help you create and decorate your own custom autograph book at home.
7. Water bottle & snacks
It’s important to stay hydrated and well-fed during your visit to Disneyland® Resort. While there are tons of delicious food and drink options — and we mean A LOT — it always helps to have some options in a pinch. You’ll save money and have a quick fix when your energy starts to wane.
Collapsible or filtered water bottles are popular choices for saving space and staying hydrated throughout the day. For an extra boost, individual powdered drink packets are a great addition, especially if you’re looking for a caffeine kick. When it comes to snacks, go for easy, on-the-go options that won’t melt in the Southern California heat! Granola bars, beef jerky, and nut mixes are great on-the-go snack options with protein for energy.
8. Picnic blanket
If you plan to watch any of the Disney parades or other outdoor events, you’ll definitely want one of these. Picnic blankets are a great way to claim your spot and have a place to sit while the crowds gather around you.
As an added bonus, they provide a makeshift rain tarp in a pinch. Much like rain ponchos, find a picnic blanket that folds up small and is easy to clean after you’re done at the parks.
9. Sunglasses and/or a hat
As we mentioned earlier, Anaheim is famous for its sunny, bright days. The last thing you want is to be squinting throughout your entire visit to the Disneyland® Parks. Sunglasses and a hat with a good brim will be essential for keeping your eyes shaded and staying protected from the SoCal sun all day long.
10. Plastic zipper bags
Last, but certainly not least, consider tossing a few resealable bags of various sizes into your backpack. These versatile bags can be surprisingly useful—they’re perfect for carrying extra snacks, protecting your phone and wallet on water rides, keeping your items organized, and much more. It’s always smart to be prepared!
Additional Disneyland® Resort Tips & Tricks
While the above packing tips cover the necessities and essentials to take with you to the park, that’s just the beginning. When packing for your Anaheim vacation, don’t forget the following!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Bring comfortable and supportive shoes that are already broken in. You’ll be doing A LOT of walking and your feet will thank you. If they fit, throw more than one pair in your bag.
Dress in Layers
Layered outfits are a must. We mentioned our Anaheim weather a couple of times already. It’s always good to have a light jacket or cardigan along, just in case.
Pack Disney-Themed Outfits
Keep in mind there is a dress code at Disneyland® Resort that limits things like costumes and masks, particularly for adults. However, that doesn’t mean some fun shirts or Disneybounding isn’t allowed. You’ll fit right in and some Disney attire will make for great photos.
Don’t Forget Your Swimsuit!
You’ll want your swimsuit when enjoying a relaxing swim at your hotel after a long day.
Bring a Power Strip
Bring a power strip for your hotel room to charge all of your electronics. That way there are outlets available for everyone who needs to charge up.
Consider Waterproof Cases for Electronics
We mentioned plastic bags above, but if you’re concerned about a particularly pricey device, it may be best to get a waterproof case for it or simply leave it behind. Better to be safe than sorry.
Entertainment for the Road
Books and handheld games come in handy. If you’re traveling via airplane or car, it’s great to have some kid-friendly items to help keep youngsters occupied. If they fit in your backpack, they’re also great for when you’re waiting in line at the parks.
Triple-Check Essential Items
Triple-check that you have all essential travel items. While things like sunscreen and snacks can be picked up anywhere, there are certain items that you simply don’t want to forget. Make sure you have all medications, insurance cards, IDs, proof of auto insurance (for car rentals), emergency contact information, credit cards, debit cards, and other important travel documents.
Leave Room for Souvenirs
Don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase to bring home those Disneyland® Resort souvenirs.
Label Your Belongings
Label all your bags and items you bring into the park with your name and contact information. That way, if it gets misplaced, it’s easier for park staff to return it. It’s also helpful for your children to have some kind of identification on them as well.
Review All Travel & Park Guidelines
Check all rules and guidelines, then check them again. Even if you’re a travel pro, every place is a little different. Browsing through the Disneyland® Resort rules, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules and airline rules (if flying), and your hotel’s rules regarding packing and luggage will help ensure a more seamless and hassle-free travel experience for everyone.
See You at Disneyland® Resort!
When it comes to packing for a Disney trip, we believe it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Packing a few extra essentials ensures you won’t be caught without something important while you’re away. Download our complete Disney packing checklist to make sure you have everything you need for a worry-free adventure!
DOWNLOAD THE COMPLETE DISNEY VACATION PACKING LIST NOW
If you’ve already booked your stay with Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel, we can’t wait to see you! If you haven’t booked your Disney vacation yet, what are you waiting for? Book with Anaheim Majestic now and start planning all the things to bring to Disney!
