Disneyland Packing List for Adults: What to Bring in Your Park Bag

Planning a day at Disneyland California as an adult is a little different than packing for a family trip. You are not juggling strollers or diaper bags (I have been there with my nieces when they were babies), but you still want to be ready for long lines, plenty of walking, and a full day of rides, snacks, and photo ops. This Disneyland packing list is for Disney adults who want to be comfortable and prepared without paying park prices for things they forgot at home.

Backpack or fanny pack

A small, lightweight backpack is the easiest way to carry everything you’ll actually use in the park. If you want to add some Disney adult flair, a Loungefly mini backpack or another themed bag can double as part of your outfit. You can also get creative with a plain backpack and decorate it with Disney pins for a personal touch.

Sometimes I bring a backpack, and other times I go lighter with a fanny pack. When my husband and I visit, one of us carries the backpack and the other wears a fanny pack. It’s a nice way to split up what we have, but you can use whichever works best for you.

Refillable water bottle + electrolyte packets

Bring a refillable bottle to avoid paying for bottled water in the park since there are refill stations throughout. I forgot mine once and ended up paying $9 for a SmartWater. A Disney-themed tumbler is a fun way to keep drinks cold and stay within the theme of the day. I also bring a pack of Liquid IV (or your choice of electrolyte packets). Mixing one in during the day helps me stay hydrated and avoid the fatigue that can creep in after hours in the sun.

Portable phone charger

With all the photos, videos, and time spent on the Disneyland app, your battery will die sooner than you think. Do not leave the house without a portable charger. On my last Disneyland visit, my phone was already down to 30% by midafternoon. I swear by my Mophie; it has saved my phone more times than I can count on trips.

Mini hand sanitizer & wet wipes

The park has plenty of high-touch surfaces, so a small hand sanitizer is a must for quick clean-ups before eating or after touching railings or ride restraints. You will also find hand sanitizer stations throughout the park, but I still like having my own. Wet wipes are great for sticky hands, spills, or wiping down tables before you sit. I keep both in an easy-to-reach pocket so I’m not digging for them when I need them.

Travel-size lotion

I always keep hand lotion in my bag because after all the hand washing with the harsh park bathroom soaps and the constant sanitizing, my hands get so dry. It is one of those small things that makes a big difference by the end of the day.

Anti-chafing balm

This is one of those things we do not always think about packing, but it can save the day — and it has for me more than once. Some of us need anti-chafing balm, especially on hot days, depending on what we are wearing. If I’m wearing shorts, my thick thighs need them. I apply before I leave the house, but after a long day at Disneyland, I always reapply. It makes a huge difference in staying comfortable from rope drop to closing.

Snacks from home

Packing a few snacks you actually like can save money and keep you going between meals. Disneyland snacks are fun, but they add up fast. Having protein bars, trail mix, or other favorites in your bag is also helpful if you are sticking to a certain diet or have food restrictions.

Sunglasses

Disneyland is in Southern California, and sunny days are the norm. A good pair of sunglasses will save your eyes during long hours outside, especially in outdoor queues. If you want to add some personality, go for a fun style or color that works with your Disney outfit. They will also look great in photos.

Hat or Disney ears

A hat adds extra shade on sunny days and helps protect your face during long stretches outdoors, especially in outdoor queues with little to no cover. You can keep it simple with a plain-colored cap and pair it with cute Disney ears for a fun layered look, or go all out with a Disney-themed hat that matches your outfit.

If Disney ears are your thing, pack them in your bag or wear them from the start to get into the Disney spirit. For a low-key option, swap ears for a Disney-inspired hair accessory like mouse-ear scrunchies.

Lip balm with SPF

This is a must for me always. Your lips can get dry and sunburned after a full day outside with the sun and wind on rides. A lip balm with SPF keeps them protected and moisturized all day, and you’ll want to reapply throughout the day.

Sunscreen stick

A sunscreen stick makes it quick and easy to touch up without messy hands. It’s perfect for reapplying in long queues or right before hopping on an outdoor ride. Keep it in an easy-to-reach pocket so you’re not digging through your bag when the California sun is blazing.

Reusable storage bag

A reusable storage bag or a simple Ziploc bag from home can be surprisingly handy in the park.. Use them to keep snacks fresh, store wet items after water rides, or corral small loose items in your bag. I wish I had brought a couple of ziplock bags to Disneyland last time, to store snacks I wanted to take home, so now they are on the list.

Fan or Cooling Towel (seasonal)

On a blazing hot summer day, waiting in line outside in the sun, you’re going to wish you had a cooling towel, a handheld fan, or even a neck fan. They sell them in the parks, but you’ll save money by bringing your own. A cooling towel can be dipped in cold water and worn around your neck, while a fan gives you instant relief in long outdoor queues. I always regret it when I forget my fan at home.

Small first-aid kit

You don’t need to buy a pre-made kit. You can put one together at home with what you’ll actually use. Toss in a few band-aids, blister or heel patches, and pain reliever like Advil or Tylenol for headaches or sore muscles. The sun or noise in the park can sometimes trigger headaches for me, so I pair Advil with an electrolyte packet to help me bounce back faster. I also like to include motion sickness tablets and any other personal must-haves.

Keep everything together in its own small pouch so it’s easy to grab when you need it. It takes up very little space but can save you from hunting down the nearest shop or first aid station.

Hair ties

If you have long hair, consider bringing a few extra hair ties in case one snaps or you need to tie your hair back on a ride or during the heat of the day. I like to stash them in a small zippered pocket so I’m not digging for one when I need it.

Glow sticks or light-up accessories

Glow sticks aren’t just for kids. They’re a fun way to add some flair after dark and make for great nighttime photos. Stash a few in your so you’re ready when the sun goes down. You can buy them online before your trip at a lower price than paying park prices.

Earplugs (optional)

Some Disney adults swear by earplugs for specific rides or shows. They can take the edge off loud attractions like fireworks, roller coasters, or the evening parade, especially if you’re sensitive to noise or get headaches from sudden loud sounds. My husband needs to bring them next time because he has tinnitus, and loud noises can make it worse. They are also helpful if you plan to sit close to the speakers during a stage show or concert in the park.

Photo ID

Do not forget to bring your identification. If you are a Disney adult 21 and over, you will need it to buy alcoholic drinks. You may also be asked to show ID at the gate if they need to verify your ticket, so it’s best to keep it handy. I like using an ID wallet card holder that I can slide into a zippered pocket, so I’m not digging through everything when I need it.

Light cardigan or long-sleeve layer

Even in Southern California, the temperature can drop quickly once the sun goes down. In summer, a lightweight cardigan or long-sleeve shirt is usually enough for evenings in the park. In the cooler months, like fall or winter, you may want to swap this for a light jacket to stay comfortable while watching fireworks or riding outdoor attractions late at night.

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, CHECK OUT THESE RELATED READS:

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• LA Day Trips to Add to Your Southern California Bucket List
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