Ultimate Packing List For Disneyland + A Printable Guide

Planning a trip to Disneyland? It can be an overwhelming thought when you think about all the Disney things you may need, the helpful items while you are in the park, and ensuring you have enough outfits for the whole family. This packing list for Disneyland will help to ensure you can pack smart and make sure you’re ready for a magical adventure while avoiding unnecessary stress. 

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This guide will not only cover a comprehensive packing list for Disneyland but also provide details on the weather throughout the year, must-know Disney-specific items that will help save the day (and budget!), and other things to do in the area. 

As a Disney World local, I was nervous about our first trip to Disneyland. It may be silly, but I didn’t know how different (or similar!) the parks would be. Some thoughts that ran through my mind were, do as many people wear Minnie ears? Are Loungeflys as popular? Do people Disney Bound? And other similar thoughts.

If you don’t know what any of the above are, don’t fret, I explain it all below. But also, I really shouldn’t have been worried! The attire and details were very similar to a Walt Disney World vacation! 

The only thing that threw me for a loop was the weather, but I get into more about that below. So before we dive into the Disneyland packing list, I have included a list of helpful information, Disney lingo translation and more. 

Disney-Specific Tips & Tricks

• Use the Disneyland App: This app will be your guide to the magic in both parks and in Downtown Disney. You can mobile order food, check ride wait times, make Lightning Lane reservations and more. 
• Bring Snacks: Disneyland allows outside food and I highly recommend it! Snacks for waiting in lines, waiting for your mobile order to be ready, while staking out your seat for the parade, etc. Snacks are a must! We always pack our own snacks in these bags.
• Bring Water Bottles: Just like how snacks are a must, bring a water bottle to keep you hydrated all day! My favorite water bottles for Disney will help you stay on track! Don’t forget to look for all the free ice water locations in the Disneyland parks!
• Use Rider Switch: If traveling with little ones, take advantage of this system for parent-friendly ride-sharing. Let the cast member at the beginning of the ride know that you want to use rider switch, they will scan your tickets and when one parent is done riding, they next can head into the ride without both waiting in a line twice. 
• Book Dining Early: Depending on where you are staying, I highly recommend finding out your reservation start date and making reservations that day! I also recommend researching Disneyland and California Adventure table-service and specialty dining options in advance so you know what you want to book when the time comes. Reservations for popular spots like Blue Bayou or Oga’s Cantina fill up fast.
• Prepare for Parades and Fireworks: Spaces for both experiences will fill up fast along main street and the parade route. I recommend bringing a blanket and staking out your spot in advance. 

• Pack For The Weather: Be sure to read the weather section of this post in order to understand the weather during your vacation. While it isn’t always the worst to buy some fun Disneyland merch if you get chilly at night, it’s not fun having on jeans when you wish you were in shorts. 
• Think About Your Shoes: You are going to take 20k steps per day, and you want to be comfortable! I suggest avoiding brand new shoes and going for an option that will keep you comfy and moving for a few days. I have two favorite shoes to wear around the parks, these waterproof tennis shoes are great for fall and winter and these are my favorite for spring and summer.
• Keep Your Phone Charged: These days we use our phones for everything. From texting the rest of your group to let them know to meet in front of Space Mountain, to taking pictures of your daughters first time meeting the princesses, plus the added usage because of the Disneyland app, you need to stay charged. We love using FuelRod chargers because you can exchange them all over the park for free! They are small and compact once once they die, you are onto the next! I highly recommend buying them in advance because they are half the cost!
• Buy Disney Gift Cards: This is a great way to keep your spending in check, but also get some discounts if you buy from specific places. Sams Club and Costso often sell discounted gift cards, and you can get 5% on gift cards at Target if you use a Red Card. This is also a great way to ensure you don’t overspend on souviners for your children! Buy a gift card at the start of the trip and let them know once the money is gone, that’s all they will get. 
• What Is An Autograph Book: You are going to meet Disney characters all over the parks and many of them sign autographs! We love the autograph books with space for a photo as well. 
• Consider Disney Trading Pins and Pin Lanyards: We LOVE pin trading! You can trade pins all over the parks, you can also buy pins to begin your trading collection as well. 
• Buy Minnie (or Mickey!) Ears: Many guests will be wearing ears or fun Disney character hats all around the park. If you are interested in participating, I recommend buying a pair or two in advance, which will likely be much cheaper than in the theme parks. You can always buy more when you arrive! 

• What Is Disney Bounding: Adults are not allowed to dress up in full Disney attire when in the parks, but they can Disney bound! But what does that mean? For example, you could wear a purple shirt and a green skort with a fork barette in your hair to Disney bound as Ariel, or you could wear a red shirt and yellow shorts to dress as Pooh. The Disney bounding options are endless and so much fun! 
• Bubble Wands: You will likely see bubble wands in the hands of 50% of the children in the parks. I suggest purchasing a wand in advance before your trip to save on the cost! Some of the wands are expensive if you buy one from the on-property stores. This is one of the cutest options ever and this one is a classic Mickey wand! Pro Tip: Leave it on the bed before going to bed and add a note that says it’s a present from Mickey, a great way to get the magic going for your child! 
• The Disneyland Parks: You can visit two parks in Disneyland- the Disneyland park and California Adventure 
• Are There Other Prohibited Items? Yes! Check the bottom of this post to see the full list of prohibited items in Disneyland parks.
• Disneyland Resorts: There are many perks to staying at a Disneyland Resort, from the theming to the early entry perk and the distance to the parks, it’s always worth it for us to stay as close to the magic as possible in the happiest place on earth 
• Good Neighbor Hotels: Disney has partnered with nearby hotels to give them the official Disney stamp of approval.  

Packing List for Disneyland

Disneyland Essentials

• Park Tickets: Disneyland is moving away from paper tickets, so the best thing to do is connect your ticket to your Disneyland app prior to your vacation! 
• ID and Credit Cards: For purchases, dining, and proof of identity if needed. Digital IDs will not work, even if your home state allows it, so be sure to bring a physical ID. I love this slim wallet for traveling.
• Compact Portable Charger: The Disneyland app is crucial for mobile tickets, maps, and mobile ordering food. As mentioned, FuelRod is conienent and helpful. We also bring a larger power bank as well, we have had this power bank for years and it works great.
• Backpacks or Crossbody Bags: Keep your essentials organized and easy to carry. We always have a “park backpack” stocked with all the park things we are constantly using, and I also use a fanny pack. I have multiple colors of this one and it’s perfect for a Disney day! My husband has his own fanny pack as well. 
• Sunglasses: An absolute must for sunny California days and the top of my list because I have sensitive eyes, but I also don’t want to be squinting in all the family photos! 
• Wipes: Messes happen to everyone. You are snacking and touching everything throughout the day, it’s always helpful to have wipes on hand. 
• Hand Sanitizer: Same reasons as above, hand sanitizer in a must! I prefer the spray sanitizer version because it’s easy to use. 
• Stroller Hook: These is essential to keep things organized on the stroller! And there are so many fun Disney themed options.

• SNACKS: As mentioned above, snacks are so important. And don’t think that you will get enough snacks all around Disneyland where you won’t need to bring your own snacks. Being hangry may strike when the line for a churro is 50 people long, so it’s helpful to ensure you have something ready to grab! 
• Tissues: Just like the wipes and snacks, it’s helpful to always have some on hand! Even if it means shoving a bunch of extra napkins in your backpack. 
• Chapstick or Lip Balm: A must when you are spending days in the Disney parks. I know I always need some lip balm after eating popcorn all day. 
• Fans: There are multiple styles of fans, I don’t think you need all of them but I do recommend determining which is preferable for you and your family. We have a larger stroller fan, handheld fans, and fans that mist. You could also get a fan that clips to your belt or even neck fans if it’s going to be extremely hot. 
• Motion Sickness Medications: You will likely spend a lot of time on the amazing rides during your Disneyland vacation. I highly recommend having medication on hand to stay feeling as good as possible! 
• Glow Sticks: Helpful to have with your upon arrival as there aren’t a ton of actual glow sticks available in the parks or at the resorts. 
• Bubble Wand: As mentioned above, bring your own bubble wand to save money in the parks! 
• Refillable Water Bottle: There are places all over the parks to fill your water bottle for free. You could also bring water flavoring if you need a little something extra to spice it up. A bottle of water could be upwards of $6 on the property, so you will definitely want to have your own if possible.  
• Ziploc Bags: These are great for takeaway food like chicken tenders your kids didn’t eat, but also for wet clothes, keeping things organized in the park bag, etc. I also love this small pouch if you want to get something different. 

Clothing

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be walking an average of 5-10 miles a day, so the comfier the shoe, the better! Make sure they are worn in. These waterproof tennis shoes and these sandals are great.
• Weather-Appropriate Layers: Before the sun comes up all the way and after the sun goes down, it is fairly chilly, so layers are important. Include a light jacket for chilly evenings or mornings.
• Disney-Themed Outfits: Embrace the Disney magic with themed shirts and ears. 
• Princess Dress or Pirate Costume: Kids love to be dressed up in the parks, but the costumes onsite can be costly. There are excellent options online to purchase and bring with you. 
• Rain Poncho or Umbrella: This is especially useful during the rainy months, but ponchos are also a good idea for water rides!
• Shirts: A variety of t-shirts, tank tops and nicer tops if you plan to have dinner at one of the nicer Downtown Disney options- but it’s totally acceptable to wear Disney outfits and casual clothes nearly everywhere.
• Pants: I usually bring jeans, leggings and joggers to mix it up each day. 
• Shorts and/or Skorts: I am in my skort era and couldn’t be happier. There are so many cute options now! 
• Undergarments: You know what you need 😉  
• PJs: Stick with the Disney theme if you want to have a cute pair of PJs to wear on the trip. 
• Swimsuit & Cover-Up: Most of the nearby resorts have nice pools for a relaxing day lounging. This is my favorite bathing suit with a bow.
• Lightweight Jacket: I suggest bringing one that doubles as a rain jacket and helps with chilly evenings once the sun goes down 
• Jewelry: You could go for fun Disney jewelry or even your standard jewelry.  
• Belt: If it’s needed!
• Sandals: I always pack a pair of sandals or flip flops for walking to and from the hotel pool. 
• Baseball Hat: A great option to keep the sun out of your face, or control your hair on some of the rides (where it isn’t a risk to lose it!) I love this bow baseball hat.

Health and Safety Items

• Sunscreen: Even in cooler months, California’s sun can be intense.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated; free water refill stations are available in the parks.
• First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, blister relief, and pain relievers.
• Deodorant 
• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Female products
• Lotion
• Hairbrush and hair styling tools 
• Razor 
• Makeup and makeup remover 
• Nail file & clippers
• Prescription medications 
• Anit-chafing stick

For Families with Kids

• Stroller: Bring your own or rent one in the parks or from a local company. We always bring our own so we also have it in the airport. 
• Snacks: Just in case I haven’t mentioned snacks enough! Save time and money by packing easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, protein bars, meat sticks, etc. It’s always helpful to have your own food on hand, especially with younger kids who tend to be a bit pickier. You want to avoid getting angry at any chance! 
• Autograph Book and Pen: For character meet-and-greets. 
• Extra Clothes: In case of spills or accidents.

Disney-Specific Must-Haves

• MagicBands: If staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel or using Genie+.
• Ear Headbands: Classic Mickey or Minnie ears are a fun accessory. Don’t forget the ear holders!
• Pins for Trading: A favorite activity for Disney fans. 
• Dining Reservations: Keep confirmations handy if you’ve booked special meals.

Packing List For Disneyland Park Bag

Determine what bags you want to have in the park. Between a backpack (small backpack or large backpack), drawstring bag, fanny pack, or crossbody bag, etc. Personally, we have a backpack and I wear a belt bag. These are the items we are always sure to have in each bag: 

In The Backpack

• Autograph book(s)
• Pen or markers 
• Minnie ears
• Portable phone charger 
• First aid kit 
• Moleskin 
• Snacks 
• Rain Ponchos
• Umbrella 
• Water bottles 
• Deodorant 
• Sunscreen
• Hand sanitizer 
• Tissues
• Larger power banks 
• Wipes 

In Personal Bags 

All of my personal items that I need quick access to throughout the day. 

• Advil
• Hydration packs (LMNT is my favorite!)
• Personal fan 
• Small portable phone charger 
• Chapstick
• Sunglasses 

Weather Throughout the Year in Disneyland

Winter (December to February)

• Average temperatures range from 47°F to 69°F.
• Pack extra layers, as mornings and evenings can be chilly.
• Rain is more likely, so bring waterproof gear.

Spring (March to May)

• Average temperatures range from 50°F to 75°F.
• Days are mild, but a jacket is useful for cooler evenings.
• Blooming flowers all over the parks make for great photo ops.

Summer (June to August)

• Average temperatures range from 63°F to 84°F.
• Expect sunny days; sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing are essential.
• Crowds peak, so prepare for long lines and pack patience. I highly recommend utilizing lighting lanes during this time period! 

Fall (September to November)

• Average temperatures range from 58°F to 78°F.
• Cooler evenings mean layers are necessary.
• The parks are beautifully decorated for Halloween and early Christmas events.

Things to Do in the Area

Inside Disneyland Resort

• Disneyland Park: The original park with classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain.
• Disney California Adventure: Features Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and the popular Radiator Springs Racers.
• Downtown Disney District: A hub for dining, shopping, and live entertainment.

Nearby Attractions

• Knott’s Berry Farm: A short drive away, this theme park is fun for thrill-seekers.
• Anaheim Packing District: A trendy food hall with diverse dining options.
• Huntington Beach: Enjoy a day at this famous California beach, just a 30-minute drive away.
• Los Angeles: Explore Hollywood, Griffith Observatory, or Santa Monica if you’re extending your trip.

Prohibited Items in Disneyland

You can find the full list of prohibited items and rules on the Disneyland website. 

Packing for Disneyland is all about preparation. With this list and tips, you’ll be set for a magical trip filled with memories. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, the magic of Disneyland is always worth the effort.

What’s on your packing list for Disneyland? Let us know in the comments below!