CBS Essentials is created independently from the CBS News staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.
So you've booked a spring break trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World . Now you need to figure out what to pack on your vacation to the "happiest place on Earth." We've got some great suggestions, including genius theme park essentials (such as foldable water bottles) and deals on Disney-branded fan favorites (think Minnie Mouse ears).
Top products in this article:
Regular Disney travelers maintain that packing the right items can make or break a trip, and even potentially help you save a lot of money. Comfortable clothes and shoes, your smartphone and a sun-shielding hat might be no-brainers, but there are other, less obvious essentials to throw into your suitcase.
These gadgets, gear and personal-hygiene items will make your trip a lot more safe, fun and enjoyable for you and your kids. And, a bonus? They generally cost a lot less to buy ahead of time than at a Disney gift shop. We rounded up everything you should pack to enhance your trip to a Disney destination. And, if you haven't booked your Disney vacation, check out the best packages (hotel, air and park tickets included) on Orlando Vacations.
Even if you plan on walking the parks as a family, Apple AirTags help keep track of your kids and their belongings should they get lost. Order a watch band for each of them, so your kids can wear the GPS tracker on their wrists.
Cellar Temp AirTag wrist band, $9
What better way to board your flight to Disney than with themed carryon luggage in tow? Whether you choose Mickey and Minnie Mouse in paradise, or a sticker-style casing featuring your favorite Star Wars characters, pack away your clothes and belongings in these hardshell luggage options, surprisingly affordable at shopDisney at less than $65.
Mickey and Minnie Mouse tropical rolling luggage, $65
For those who prefer to pack light for a day at the parks, a hands-free bag can be a game-changer. This popular State bag, which regularly sells out, doubles as a fanny pack and cross-body, with enough room to hold a 12-ounce bottle of water, a pair of sunglasses, and other everyday essentials like your phone, lip balm and wallet. Don't forget to buy the child-size version for your littles.
State Lorimer kids fanny pack, $50
A trip to Disney serves as a great excuse to upgrade to the latest Apple Watch, offering a larger, more shatter-resistant screen; faster charging time than previous generations; and up to 18 hours of use per charge. Track your steps, check your emails, send text messages, and more, without taking your smartphone out of your bag.
Apple Watch Series 7, $313+ (reduced from $399)
And, to go along with your Apple Watch, don't forget a Disney-themed band. Casetify offers a variety of them, like this Louis Vuitton-inspired check print version featuring Mickey Mouse himself.
Casetify Checker Mickey Apple Watch band, $52
Consider these "Encanto" headphones from eKids a win-win all around: Your kids can listen to the "Encanto" soundtrack on repeat while traveling to Disney, but you won't have to! Adorably decorated with characters from the hit Disney film, they work via Bluetooth and also with an included cord just in case they lose their charge.
Both Orlando and Los Angeles offer a whole lot of sun, so a high-SPF and water-resistant sunscreen formula should be a priority. Stock up on Sunbum broad-spectrum SPF 50 for the face and body, both highly rated on Amazon and gentle enough for children and those with sensitive skin.
Sunbum moisturizing sunscreen SPF 50 Face (3 oz.), $13
Sunbum moisturizing sunscreen SPF 50 (8 oz.), $15
A great way to keep the kids on a budget during your family trip to Disney? Purchasing gift cards ahead of time, so they can spend their allotted vacation money as they see fit. Available in $25 to $500 increments, these cards can be used at shopDisney.com, Disney store, Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and more.
Disney gift card, $25 and up
Fact: Disney allows outside food and beverage in its parks. For those packing a lunch or beverages, invest in an insulated, stay-cool backpack. This Amazon favorite from Tourit rises to the occasion. The lightweight backpack offers enough space for 30 beverage cans and boasts many convenient pockets for utensils and plates, in addition to a bottle opener on the strap.
Avoid the price tags at the parks by ordering backpacks ahead of time on Amazon. Simple Modern offers a variety of Disney-themed prints, including Mickey Mouse, Cars and this Disney princess-themed version in two sizes.
Choose a color and add your family name to this customizable T-shirt to wear around Walt Disney World with your pack. And, if your kids wander off at the park, security will know who they belong to. After your trip, it becomes a keepsake to remember fun times for years to come.
Mickey Mouse custom family t-shirt adult sizes, $25
Mickey Mouse custom family t-shirts kid sizes, $20
Don't show up at the park without this classic Disney accessory. ShopDisney has a selection of fun Mickey and Minnie Mouse ears to wear, so you can outfit the whole family.
Minnie Mouse sequin ear headband for adults, $30
If you're visiting a Walt Disney World Resort theme park, chances are you'll want to use a MagicBand -- it's a small RFID device that can unlock your Disney Resort hotel room door, redeem Disney FastPass+ selections and more. ShopDisney has MagicBand bracelets featuring some of your favorite characters, such as the Child from "The Mandalorian."
(Note: MagicBand does not work at Walt Disney Land Resort theme parks.)
The Child MagicBand slap bracelet, $30
This adorable simulated leather grain mini backpack from Loungefly features a Disneyland-inspired print, perfect for little (and big) Disney fans. With adjustable shoulder straps and convenient pockets, it makes for a great personal item on the plane and also a lightweight bag to carry necessities around the park.
Ponchos like this are quite handy for some of the splashier Disney rides. While the gift shops around the parks sell plastic protective wear, plan ahead of time, and maybe even save money, with this frugal family pack.
Looking for a special Disneyland outfit to wear? This Mickey Mouse waffle-print jersey (look for the pat of butter) has a Walt Disney World logo on the back and a ribbed neck and cuffs. A tye-dye print long-sleeve is also available.
Mickey Mouse Waffles Spirit Jersey, $50 (reduced from $75)
Walt Disney World Tie-Dye Spirit Jersey, $75
"We Don't Talk About Bruno" continues to burn up the charts, making "Encanto" the hottest Disney film in recent history. Fans should snap up this T-shirt, featuring the man of the hour, to wear around the park.
Easily remedy stubbed toes, blisters, cuts, scrapes and other booboos with a Welly first-aid kit. Each tin contains 18 bandages in various colors and patterns in two sizes, plus three single-use antibiotic ointments and three single-use hand sanitizers.
Welly Quick Fix first aid travel kit (2 pack), $14
Shop Disney-themed sunglasses for all the kids on ShopDisney so you won't have to fight them to protect their eyes. Choose from these 1990s inspired Mickey Mouse shades or a pair inspired by their favorite movie, ranging from "Toy Story to "Beauty and the Beast." Stock up now, as all sunglasses and swim items are 20% off with a purchase of $50 or more.
Shop all Disney hats and sunglasses
Smartphones snap great family photos at Disney, but your kids will have a blast with this hybrid camera-slash-printer from Instax. This set comes with a camera, a travel case, 50 sheets of photo paper and a photo album to store all of your vacation photos.
INSTAX Mini Evo Hybrid instant camera, $140 (reduced from $150)
If you're bold enough to wear them, Crocs make for comfortable footwear for rain or shine. Instead of just a plain color, these "Star Wars" Crocs, featuring the Child, available in both children and adult sizes, will add a little Mandalorian spirt to your step.
"Star Wars" Crocs for adults, $40+
"Star Wars" Crocs for kids, $45
Leave your bulky, heavy water bottle at home and pack a few Vapur flexible water bottles instead. Available in various sizes and colors (you'll want one for everyone), they stand tall when filled with water but fold up when empty. Each comes with a handy carabiner to easily hook onto your backpack or stroller.
Taking photos, uploading posts to social media and using the Disney app while at the parks can drain phone batteries quickly. Make sure to pack a wireless portable charger so your electronics don't run out of juice. Whether you're an iPhone user or Android user, the Anker PowerCore III offers high speed USB charging up to 18 watts.
Anker PowerCore III wireless portable charger, $50
Because Mirabel is the new Elsa, you might have a tough time finding one of these "Encanto" costumes at the park. Order it ahead of time from Shop Disney and avoid any potential disappointment. Don't forget to check out all of the other costumes available on the Shop Disney website.
Disney World has made masks optional for vaccinated individuals, but some families may prefer some added protection while on Disney buses or on the plane trip to Florida or California. These 3M masks prevent eyewear fogging and have a foam cushion for maximum comfort on your nose.
(You can find more KN95 masks for kids here .)
3M N95 8210 respirator (20 pack), $17 (reduced from $30)
First published on March 1, 2022 / 7:00 AM
Despite their student debt, only 10% said in retrospect they would skip higher education.
An attorney for Donald Trump said he does not have any of the documents sought by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Jacqueline Avant was shot and killed in her Beverly Hills home in December.
The DOJ said Tuesday that it disagrees with a district court's decision to end the mask mandate.
The plan would be the largest infrastructure project in the nation and take up to 20 years to complete.
Millions of Americans file returns after the Tax Day deadline. If you're in that group, here's what determines how much you'll owe.
Uber and Lyft riders and drivers may now leave their masks at home, after a judge struck down a federal mask mandate.
Despite their student debt, only 10% said in retrospect they would skip higher education.
Drop stems partly from company's decision to suspend service in Russia to protest war in Ukraine, but deeper problems exist.
Wells is "killing Black homeowners opportunities" with high rate of denials when interest rates were low, says attorney Ben Crump.
Despite their student debt, only 10% said in retrospect they would skip higher education.
An attorney for Donald Trump said he does not have any of the documents sought by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The DOJ said Tuesday that it disagrees with a district court's decision to end the mask mandate.
The administration emphasizes the need to continue nuclear energy as a power source that helps to combat climate change.
A review found some servicers had been placing borrowers facing financial difficulties into forbearance instead of giving them clear information about income-driven repayment options.
The DOJ said Tuesday that it disagrees with a district court's decision to end the mask mandate.
Amid concerns that mask mandates are being lifted too soon on planes and public transportation, Dr. Jon LaPook shares more on what you can do to protect yourself while traveling this summer.
There was jubilation in the skies as airline passengers found out masks were no longer required. But parents traveling with young children, who aren't yet eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19, are concerned about the change. Errol Barnett shares the latest.
Though customers are free to continue wearing masks if they choose, passengers will not be required to mask up on many carriers for the first time in years.
Some of the cases in the U.K. have required specialist care at liver units and a few have needed a liver transplant.
Chinese Television System (CTS) sparked alarm admitted its false alarm "caused public panic." Taiwan's 23 million people live under constant threat of an invasion by China.
He said he wants to help save lives after his father died of COVID-19 last year in their home country.
Last week, Johnson was fined 50 pounds ($66) for attending his own surprise birthday party in June 2020, making him the first British prime minister ever found to have broken the law while in office.
Propaganda clips aired on Russian TV show two captured British citizens, Shaun Pinner and Aiden Aslin.
Some of the cases in the U.K. have required specialist care at liver units and a few have needed a liver transplant.
Miller allegedly struck a woman on the head with a chair after being asked to leave a gathering.
Keith Grayson, who performed as DJ Kay Slay, worked with the likes of Nas, Kendrick Lamar, Jadakiss and Busta Rhymes.
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Janelle Monáe joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss her new book "The Memory Librarian: And Other Stories of Dirty Computer." The collection of short stories builds on the science fiction universe she created in her 2018 Grammy-nominated album "Dirty Computer."
In 1992 the comedian directed his first movie, about an abrasive, 73-year-old washed-up comic. Now, thirty years later, Crystal has turned the film into a musical – and the 74-year-old finally gets to act his age.
In 1992 Billy Crystal directed his first movie, "Mr. Saturday Night," about an abrasive stand-up comic. Back then, Crystal required hours of makeup to play the 73-year-old washed-up comedian Buddy Young, Jr. Now, thirty years later, Crystal has turned the film into a Broadway musical – and the 74-year-old finally gets to act his age. Correspondent Tracy Smith sits down with the still-youthful Crystal.
“CBS Mornings” is launching a new series called "Rebuilding America" to showcase the ingenuity of individuals and communities around the country working together to build a better world one project at a time. In this installment, CBS News correspondent Janet Shamlian heads to New Mexico where a community of so-called Earthships is redefining sustainable housing.
But more would still buy a gas-powered vehicle.
The move follows a wave of unionization efforts at other big companies with workers winning back bargaining power.
Former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey has publicly criticized the company's board as it evaluates a takeover bid from billionaire Elon Musk. CBS News' Tanya Rivero and CBS News tech reporter Dan Patterson discuss the board's latest actions and options as it weighs the acquisition offer.
FAA data show incidents of people aiming laser pointers at aircraft jumped 41% last year, prompting the Air Force Research Lab to develop countermeasures.
The plan would be the largest infrastructure project in the nation and take up to 20 years to complete.
The cactus is known for being able to thrive in some of the driest and hottest climates, but a new study estimates in the 30 years, global warming will put 60% of the world's cactuses at greater risk of extinction. Michiel Pillet, a member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission, joins CBS News to discuss the threat and what it means for our ecosystem.
This Earth Day, test your environmental knowledge with these questions to see just how much you know.
But more would still buy a gas-powered vehicle.
Some experts believe one of the simplest ways consumers can help the environment is by using cleaner electric energy. Bob Brecha, sustainability program director at the University of Dayton, and Kenneth McLeod, a systems science and industrial engineering professor at Binghamton University, sit down with CBS News' Tanya Rivero to discuss what that entails.
Jacqueline Avant was shot and killed in her Beverly Hills home in December.
Arian Taherzadeh and Haider Ali have been indicted on false impersonation of an officer or employee of the U.S. and unlawful possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device.
Miller allegedly struck a woman on the head with a chair after being asked to leave a gathering.
Charged with the murders of Vallow's kids — JJ Vallow, 7, and Tylee Ryan, 16 — the married couple also faces other charges related to the mysterious deaths of their former spouses.
Barry Morphew was charged last year with killing his wife, who was last seen on Mother's Day 2020.
It's not known when NASA might be ready to make another attempt to fuel the SLS rocket in a critical test.
Scientists say a "missing link" that helps to explain the mysteries of the birth of the universe has been hiding in plain sight.
Look up! Shooting stars are arriving as we celebrate our planet.
No details about the spy satellite payload were revealed, but the NRO declared mission success in a statement.
Wang Yaping, Zhai Zhigang and Ye Guangfu were the second crew aboard Tiangong, China's newest orbital station.
Which state has the highest proportion of gun owners? Here's what we know.
Forbes' annual billionaires list reveals which big-money titan has the most money of them all.
In 2020, the American Airlines manager was gunned down during a morning walk with his wife and dog. Two years later, his wife, Jennifer, pleaded guilty for her role in orchestrating his death.
From Justin Bieber to Lady Gaga, here's who showed up in a big way
Twice nominated for an Academy Award, the actress and singer came to fame in such musical hits as "Bye Bye Birdie" and "Viva Las Vegas," before turning in acclaimed dramatic performances in such films as "The Cincinnati Kid" and "Carnal Knowledge."
The International Monetary Fund says global economic growth will slow this year. Experts cite the war in Ukraine as one of the reasons. Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, chief economist for the International Monetary Fund, joined CBS News' Jamie Yuccas to discuss.
The Russian military is intensifying military attacks in the Donbas region and other parts of eastern Ukraine as far south as Mariupol. CBS News foreign correspondent Chris Livesay joins "Red and Blue" from Kyiv with the latest on the war.
As the war in Ukraine drags on, concerns are now growing about potential cyberattacks from Russia in the U.S. Lindsay Gorman, an emerging technologies fellow at the Alliance for Securing Democracy, joins CBS News' Jamie Yuccas to discuss America's capabilities to respond to such threats.
President Biden visited the important primary state of New Hampshire today and focused his remarks on the the bipartisan passage of his infrastructure plan. University of New Hampshire political science professor Dante Scala joins "Red and Blue" with more on the president’s trip and what it means for upcoming races in New Hampshire.
Phoenix Suns center Bismack Biyombo is donating his entire $1.3 million salary to build a hospital in his home country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Jamie Yuccas shares more.
Copyright ©2022 CBS Interactive Inc. All rights reserved.