Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences, and savor the journey.

We reached out to three experts to find out what to pack for a day at Disney.

Travel professionals Seana Beard from Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel, Laura Liden from Pixie and Pirate Destinations® – Travel Agency, and Chris Cook-Leitz, owner of On The Road Travel, LLC, share 19 essentials you need to pack for Disney World based on experience.

“Walt Disney World and Disneyland have professional photographers stationed throughout the parks (check the app for up-to-the-minute locations), so take advantage of these services, especially if you purchased the photo package. They even have photo studios in some locations. Think ahead for gifts, holiday cards, photo books, et cetera. Bringing a coordinated outfit can really elevate a family photo.” — Beard

“Sounds like a given but so important — you will be walking tens of miles a day and not realizing it. Make sure the shoes have a good sole. ‘Disney rash’ is real. The heat from the ground can penetrate your feet and legs and can put a real damper on your trip. Good shoes can help prevent this.” — Liden

“These are great to pick up ahead of time and huge help for those short rain bursts that riddle Florida in the summertime.” — Beard

“It sure beats paying $12 for one in the parks.” — Cook-Leitz

“These days so much of the park navigation will be done via the My Disney Experience app. This can drain your phone pretty quickly. Make sure to have a backup charger or two. They do sell some in the parks, but thinking ahead can save some money. Also, bring an extra cable or two, because if using a rented scooter most have USB charging connections.” — Beard

“Disney loves to keep your daily plans available in their My Disney Experience app. This, coupled with use of your camera in your phone can put a drain on your battery. Having a portable charger allows you to still be on the move while boosting your battery back up.” — Liden

“Using the Disney App drains your phone faster than you can say, ‘bibbidi, bobbidi, boo.’ And don’t forget the charging cord.” — Cook-Leitz

“Disney Rash is very real! Runners use this all the time, and boy can it be a lifesaver when in the parks on those hot and humid days!” — Beard

“This helps the obvious foot blisters, but also chafing on your inner thighs from walking, especially when the inevitable rain storm comes through.” — Liden

“There are first aid stations throughout the parks, but it is best to have a few things in your day pack. Even a plastic bag or small pouch with some pain reliever, antibacterial ointment, and a few band-aids for those blisters or scrapes can be a huge lifesaver.” — Beard

“Yes, Disney has hand sanitizer located around the parks, but these come in handy at times and are not as messy.” — Liden

“One of the most important- even on overcast days. Each park has a central lake or lagoon and the reflection off the water can lead to nasty sunburns. Reapply often.” — Liden

“Solid sticks are especially useful in the parks.” — Cook-Leitz

“These are great. Waiting in lines that aren’t always shaded can make you hot. These towels, worn around your neck, can ease the heat.” — Liden

“Character meet and greets have returned! Make sure the kids are equipped with autograph books, pens, and Sharpies. This is a great opportunity to channel your creativity as well. We have seen families bring tee shirts, hats, and even pillow cases to sign. My son and I made our autograph book with stickers prior to our visit, and that becomes a real conversation piece.” — Beard

“Nighttime shows and spectaculars are back as well. Take a trip to the dollar store prior to your visit and let the kids go crazy with glow bracelets, necklaces, whatever!” — Beard

“Gum is not sold in the parks, so be sure to take it along with you.” — Cook-Leitz

“Most folks don’t know, but you can bring food into the Disney parks. If on a budget, don’t hesitate to have groceries (from Walmart or Amazon) delivered to your resort. All rooms have a small fridge perfect for holding some snacks or lunch items. You can even bring in cans of soda! You can not bring in a huge cooler, but the insulated lunch boxes are perfect for lunch items and drinks.” — Beard

“These have many uses, from carrying snacks to keeping electronics dry in a rainstorm or on a water ride, plus a multitude of other uses.” — Liden

“Disney has moved towards paper straws in the parks. While it’s an understood need for the sake of the environment, paper straws don’t last long when condensation takes over.” — Liden

“There are plenty of bottle refill stations around the parks, making water bottles a must. You can also ask for ice water — or even just a cup of ice at any of the quick-service food locations. Better yet — it’s free!” — Beard

“While you can typically get a cup of water at most quick-service dining locations or purchase bottled water around the park, it may not stay cold for long. In the Florida heat, you want to stay hydrated. Having a bottle to refill at the many fountains and filling stations can be a big help.” — Liden

“No one likes paying $4 for a bottle of water. Carry your own into the parks so you can refill and stay hydrated. My boys like the Owala FreeSip insulated bottle. I’ve bought them on Amazon and Sam’s Club currently has a two-pack for $30 .” — Cook-Leitz

“A light and manageable day pack is best. Something that can carry your necessities but can slip off and on easily is key.” — Beard

“These are bracelets that Disney offers that electronically hold your room key, park tickets, and charging abilities all in one tap. No pulling out wallets and makes things incredibly easy all day long.” — Liden

“If you’re taking your grandkids, tie something on the handle of their stroller that will make yours stand out among a sea of strollers.” — Cook-Leitz