For Christmas, we surprised our kids. I wrapped up a note in this fun Mickey’s Merry Christmas Font that asked the kids to figure out what the next 4 wrapped clues meant. One by one the kids unwrapped boxes to find (1) a used suitcase, (2) a toy airplane, (3) a puzzle of the USA – with Florida missing and (4) Mickey Mouse activity pads. At first they were clueless, but when asked ‘What would you use all these things together for?’ they guessed Disney right away.
Imagine the squealing that went on that Christmas day! None of our kids have even been on an airplane and hotel stays for us are rare, so this trip is a major treat even without Disney. But since I haven’t been there since I was eight year old, I am a bit apprehensive about packing. Especially since my husband will fly ahead of us for business for a few days. My mom and my 7 year old nephew fly with me and my 3 kids (ages 7, 4 and 1.5) but you can see why I’m anxious.
I’m grateful for the grkids family that immediately offered suggestions when I asked on Facebook about packing for Disney in February. I’m going to post some of the responses here. I know many of you will be traveling to warmer places over the next few months and perhaps these tips will assist you as well.
1- I’m packing magic gloves, stow-able hats and fleece jackets or sweatshirts. The weather can be in the 50′s or the 70′s in Orlando in January.
2- Buy rain ponchos at the Dollar Store before going or else they will cost upwards of $8 each at Disney. Also buy glow sticks at the dollar store.
3- Bring your own water bottles into the park because their water tastes bad and bottled water is expensive. Concession workers will fill your water bottles for you if you ask.
4- Bring healthy snacks along into the park in a soft-sided cooler (bring this on the plane in your luggage.)
5- Pack autograph books and pens for the kids to collect characters signatures.
6- Wear comfortable walking shoes. No flip flops for trekking around the parks.
7- Bring a stroller even for the older kids. I am bringing my double stroller.
8- Bring an itinerary and download the undercover tourist app that let you know how long the lines are at the rides.
9- Use a sharpie to write your name and cell # on your kids’ arms in case they get lost.
10- Carry a backpack instead of a purse or diaper bag.
11- Pack a princess dress for little girls that may want to dress up.
What are your Disney Packing Tips?
