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Best Backpack for Disney World

When you take a trip to Disney World, you are going to need a bag to carry all of your gear. As expert Disney World travelers, we believe that backpacks are the best options for what to bring with you to the parks. We’ve tried out plenty of bags & have come up with the best backpack for Disney World.

Why would you want to carry a backpack to Disney World?

Backpacks are great for Disney because they allow you a place to keep all the things you are bringing to the parks as well as a place to store things like souvenirs that you will purchase while at the parks.

They are also great because they keep your arms totally free.

If you traveling to Disney with Toddlers or preschoolers, you know that you will be pushing a stroller.

A backpack will allow you to freely push the stroller or even hold your child’s hand without having to worry about a shoulder bag falling off your arm.

Trust me, this is my number one thing to purchase before traveling to Disney World.

Qualities to look for in Backpacks for Disney World

There are a ton of backpack options available, but the key to finding the best backpack for Disney is to look for one that has the following features:

Lightweight

When it comes to looking for a backpack, you are going to want to find one that is lightweight.

You are going to be carrying it around for an entire day and it will probably be weighted down with things you pack inside.

In order for you not to suffer from back and shoulder pain, you want to make sure that the backpack isn’t too heavy when it is empty.

Padded Straps

You want to make sure that the straps on your backpack are padded.

This is going to make a HUGE difference in how comfortable it will be to carry your bag on your back all day.

The last thing you need is to form blisters on your shoulder from a bag that has too much friction against your skin.

Adjustable Straps

Another feature to look for when deciding on a backpack for Disney is adjustable shoulder straps.

Not all people are built the same, so having a bag that can be adjusted in terms of your straps is essential.

Lots of Pockets

When looking at backpacks, we have determined that the best backpacks for Disney have multiple pockets.

Chances are that you will be carrying a lot of things like autograph books and ponchos and let’s not forget things like Disney souvenirs that you don’t want to damage.

To keep it organized, having pockets for various-sized items will help you find what you are looking for easily.

Don’t forget to look for a backpack that also has a water bottle pocket. These come in really handy when you need to access water in a pinch.

Waterproof

Those traveling to Disney World in Florida may want to consider a waterproof backpack.

Orlando is known to get afternoon showers daily so you may want to purchase a backpack for Disney that won’t let water get on the things you have packed inside.

It will also come in handy on water rides like Kali River Rapids when you don’t want all your items to get soaked.

So What is the Best Backpack for Disney World?

It depends if you are traveling to Disney solo or with a family.

Best Backpack for Singles to bring to Disney

Sunhiker Water Resistant Travel Backpack
The sunhiker backpack is a small-sized backpack with dimensions of 15.8H x 9.4L x 5.9W inches/40 x 24 x 15 cm, a weight of 12.3 oz, and a capacity of approximately 20-25L. It is suitable for both men and women who prefer a smaller sized backpack and only want to carry essential items while traveling light.

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We’ve tried out many different backpacks and we think the Sunhiker is best lightweight backpack for Disney World when you are traveling solo.

You are going to be doing a ton of walking and you will appreciate having a lightweight bag to carry all your gear.

This one is less than a pound (12 oz), and has padded shoulder pads that are adjustable and multiple pockets for storing gear.

The backpack is also tear-resistant, waterproof, & comes in several different colors!

Did I mention it is under $30? What a bargain.

Best Backpack for Families to bring to Disney

When it comes to the backpack for families to carry to Disney, we like Adidas Foundation backpack because it is large enough to carry all your gear.

Sale
Adidas Backpack
Multiple zippered pockets give you plenty of storage space and two water bottle pockets to keep you hydrated.

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It has tons of storage to carry everyone’s gear and two expandable side pockets that will fit a 32 ounce water bottles.

With padded straps and back, it meets our requirement for being a comfortable backpack to bring to Disney.

What people have to say about it:

This backpack is a great choice for anyone who needs a spacious and durable backpack. It has multiple zippered pockets, including an interior sleeve that can fit up to a 15-inch laptop. It also has two mesh side water bottle pockets that can hold large bottles.

4 Other Good Backpacks for Disney

Other honorable mentions for Best Backpacks for Disney World & Disneyland.

These backpacks for Disney are all really fantastic bags.

While not our number one choice, all the reviews showcase the features that we think are important when looking for a backpack to bring to an amusement park.

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Wondering what you should be carrying with you to the park in your backpack? We have a great list of things you should be bringing to Disney.

What We Pack in Our Disney Backpack

Poncho

Let’s face it, you are in Florida. You will most likely experience rain at some point during your Disney World vacation.

Disposable Rain Poncho
These rain coats are made of eco-friendly non-toxic PE material. 40% thicker than common disposable rain poncho. Durable and 100% waterproof. Seams are sealed to guarantee no rain will leak from them and keep you dry and dirt free.

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Go ahead and purchase an inexpensive Rain Poncho prior to your stay and pack it with you!

Sunglasses/Hat

You won’t want to be without your sunglasses or a hat in sunny Florida.

Mickey Mouse Hat
Iconic Disney Characters: Embrace the magic of Mickey Mouse with this officially licensed baseball cap featuring beloved Disney characters.

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You will be surprised at how much sun your face will get just walking from one side of the park to the other.

Do yourself a favor and keep it shaded as much as possible!

Sunscreen

It is good to apply sunscreen prior to going to the parks, but I would also bring a sunscreen tube/stick with you because you will need to reapply it throughout the day.

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Banana Boat Ultra Sunscreen Stick
Banana Boat Sport Ultra Sunscreen stick provides powerful protection that absorbs quickly, is non-greasy and won't run into your eyes.

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The Florida humidity means you will be sweating a ton and all that sunscreen that you spent time applying in the morning will be gone by mid-day!

Pain Medication

When you are deciding what to pack for Disney World, you may not think of pain meds.

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Advil Travel Medicine
One vial of 10 Advil Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer Coated Tablets

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After a day of walking, you may find that you either have a headache or muscle aches by early evening and you don’t want it to keep you from enjoying the Disney World parks at night.

Pack a travel-size bottle (it is no bigger than a chapstick) and you will save some serious money. A pack of 2 Advil costs nearly $4 in the Disney World parks.

Band-aids

One of the items we always have on hand in our day bag for Disney are Band-aids.

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Band-Aid Tru Stay Sheer
Band-Aid Brand Tru-Stay Sheer Strips Adhesive Bandages in various sizes to help minor cuts and scrapes heal.

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You just never know when you are going to need a bandaid so it is better to have a few with you at all times.

Water Bottle

Bring your own reusable water bottle & you can refill it for free.

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Hydro Flask Water Bottle
Tempshield Insulation Keeps Beverages Cold Up To 24 Hours And Hot Up To 12 Hours

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You can refill your water bottle at water fountains, but I prefer getting cups of water from service counters (they are complimentary and cold).

Snacks

One of the great things about Disney parks is that they allow you to bring food into the parks.

Rather than spending a ton of money buying snacks when hunger comes over you, save your money for special Disney treats.

You can bring anything with you from applesauce pouches to Goldfish crackers!

Freezable insulated bag

One of the must-have items for our family is an insulated bag.

Packit Freezable Lunch Bag
Features a patented freezable gel permanently built into liner, no need for ice or gel packs, simply fold your PackIt flat and freeze overnight

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It will help keep reusable water bottles cold & snacks like carrot sticks and grapes, chilled.

Phone Charge Cord & Portable Charge

All four of the Disney World parks have free WiFi. The problem is that it can suck your battery dry.

While there are charging stations located in the parks, if you don’t have your charge cord, it won’t do you any good.

Portable Charger
  • Built-in Cable:Perfectly compatible with iPhone, just plug the inner cable to charge. No need to carry any extra cables.
  • Super Mini:One of the smallest and lightest 9000mAh portable charger. Size of credit card. You can put in your pocket, clutch bag or purse handbag easily.
  • Super Fast:The built-in cable can fast charge your iPhone - charging iPhone 14 up to 40% in 30 mins. Solve your daily charging need.
  • Super Powerful:9000mAh add nearly four charges to iPhone 8, or almost two charges to an iPhone 14.
  • What You Get: iWALK 9000mAh Power Bank x 1, USB-C cable x 1, welcome guide, friendly customer service.

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Make sure you bring it and a portable charger with you!

Disney Autograph book & Retractable Sharpie

Kids love to get autographs at the Disney character meet & greets.

Don’t forget your Disney autograph book and a pen.

Disney Autograph Book
Keep all your Disney autographs in one place with this Disney Autograph Book

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Rather than have to keep up with a pen & its top, it’s best to the retractable kind of Sharpie.

Anti-Chafe Balm

There is no way I can go to Disney World without BodyGlide.

Body Glide Original Anti Chafe Balm
Intended As A Barrier To The Effects Of Rubbing, Its Formulation Makes It Easy To Apply For All-Day Protection From Skin On Skin Rubbing, Chafing From Clothing, Or Pinching And Friction From Shoes, Protective Gear, And Other Irritants.

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Not only does this stick to keep your inner thighs from chafing, it keeps your feet blister-free!

I’m sure there are more uses, but this little stick is a must-have.

Hair Tie

Women (and girls) that have long hair, may find that they wish they could pull it up by midday- especially when traveling to Disney World.

Hair ties also come in handy when riding certain rides (like Test Track & Slinky Dog Dash) when your hair can blow all over the place!

Do you have a favorite Disney park bag? What qualities do you look for in a bag you bring to the Disney parks?

Disney World Planning Information

There is so much to think about when it comes to planning your Disney vacation. We encourage you to check out our entire site, but if you are just getting started with planning, we have some posts you should begin with.

Looking for the best time to visit Disney World? We have Disney World crowd calendars that will tell you what’s going on each month of the year, dates to avoid, typical weather conditions, and other useful information.

Considering a Disney World Resort? There are so many perks to staying on Disney property. We have a full list of all the Disney Resorts as well as many Disney Resort reviews for you to get a firsthand perspective.

If you are a foodie, you will be glad to know that there are great restaurants at Disney World, this includes buffets, character meals and even some places the adults will love.

Want to get the best deal on your trip? We can show you not only how to travel to Disney on a budget, but we can also give you ideas on how to save on Disney tickets and where to book your vacation so that you get the best price.

We even have Disney packing lists, essential park day items and other things to consider bringing with you to the park that you might not think about.

Lastly, if you are traveling to Disney World for the first time and unsure how Genie+ and Lightning Lane work, where to find Hidden Mickeys or if you should add a Disney Dining Plan, we have tons of information to share..

Remember that we aren’t travel agents, we are regular Disney travelers just like you, but have been blessed with the opportunity to visit the parks regularly. Because we’ve been so much, we’ve learned many valuable Disney insider tips that we can share with others.

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