Since I have spent most of the day packing I thought I would share some of my must-pack items for the Disney parks!

Obviously you will need the essentials, clothes, toiletries, etc. And it is always a good idea to pack any important items in your carry-on, just in case something happens to your luggage, or a flight is delayed or re-routed. For me these items usually include an extra pair of contacts, medicine or prescriptions, cell phone and charger, and a light change of clothes. Also don’t forget any legal documents or tickets! I suggest making photocopies of items such as your license and passport; that way if something did happen to them it will make getting an extra copy a lot easier.

As one of the most important pieces for documenting your trip, don’t forget the camera, camcorder, plus extra batteries and memory cards.

Always pack your swimwear, sunglasses and sunscreen, you can buy sunscreen on property, but it will be at an inflated price. Also plastic bags to transport any wet clothes or to help keep other items dry is helpful. A small nightlight can be very handy to plug in your resort room for any little ones that are scared of the dark and for late night bathroom breaks. Also, packing stamps and preprinted address labels can make sending out postcards a snap.

For the parks you’ll want to bring a day-bag, something light and portable that can still hold everything you’ll need such as money, tickets, a small tub of sunscreen, glasses, etc. Ponchos are something that you can pick up ahead of time and is a lifesaver once a rain shower hits. You can also pick up ponchos at the parks for around $8 and although this is a higher price, if your poncho is damaged during your stay Disney will replace it for free. You can use any type of book for the kids to use as an autograph book with the characters, or you can buy one on property. I suggest also picking up some fat pens for the characters to use (the larger ones are easier for them to write with). Another idea is to pick up some neon/glow bracelets or sticks at your dollar store. Disney sells all sorts of different glowing toys and Jewelry during the night parades and shows. If you come prepared with your own you can save a few dollars and a potential kid meltdown!