Packing for a Disney trip can feel like a daunting task, but with some organization and planning, you can streamline the process and make your trip as magical as possible. Whether you're prepping for a race, a family adventure, or a romantic getaway, here are practical tips based on my personal packing process.


1. Prep Your Outfits Based on Weather and Activities
When packing for a Disney trip, consider the drastic temperature changes between day and night. For example, in November, mornings and evenings can be significantly cooler than midday.
  • Daytime outfits: Think lightweight and comfortable clothing like t-shirts and shorts.
  • Nighttime outfits: Bring layers, such as pants and long-sleeve shirts, for cooler temperatures.
  • Race gear: If you're participating in a runDisney event, keep your race day outfit in your carry-on to avoid any mishaps with checked luggage.
Pro tip: Lay out your clothes by day and layer your packing cubes accordingly, placing the last day's outfit at the bottom and your pajamas or first outfit on top.


2. Use Packing Cubes to Stay Organized
Packing cubes can be a game changer for keeping your clothes sorted. Here’s how I organize mine:
  • Divide by hotel stay: Since we stayed at two hotels (Port Orleans Riverside and Wilderness Lodge), I packed separate cubes for each part of the trip.
  • Categorize clothes: Use one cube for daytime clothes, another for nighttime outfits, and a third for pajamas and extras.
Tip: Pack your pajamas at the top of your cube so they’re easy to grab when you arrive.


3. Label Your Packing Cubes
To make unpacking even more efficient, I created fabric labels for each packing cube using safety pins. This is especially helpful if you're packing for multiple family members or staying at different hotels.
Label ideas:
  • "Port Orleans Riverside: Daytime"
  • "Wilderness Lodge: Nighttime"
This way, you can grab exactly what you need without digging through everything.



4. Prioritize Your Carry-On
Your carry-on should include essentials in case your checked luggage is delayed:
  • Pool flip-flops and swimsuit: Great for a quick swim before your bags arrive.
  • Race day gear: Keep your shoes, outfit, and any accessories in your carry-on.
  • Travel day outfit: Make sure it's comfortable and weather-appropriate. For early morning flights, consider wearing layers to stay warm.


5. Organize Toiletries Wisely
Toiletry packing can quickly get overwhelming, but here’s how I keep everything tidy:
  • Use separate bags for categories:
    • Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion in a Ziploc bag (in case of leaks).
    • Makeup and brushes in a compact travel case.
    • Medications and first-aid essentials, including pain relievers, band-aids, and anti-chafing products.
  • Tip: Lock your sunscreen bottles to prevent accidental sprays during travel.
For convenience, I made a custom toiletry roll using a hand towel. It holds my electric toothbrush and smaller items like floss and a comb. Bonus: It hangs neatly on the towel bar in hotel bathrooms.


6. Pack Smart for Shoes
Shoes can take up a lot of space, so pack efficiently:
  • Bottom of the suitcase: Place shoes with the soles facing outward to save space.
  • Essential pairs:
    • Flip-flops for the pool.
    • Supportive sandals for walking.
    • Sneakers for the parks and race day.
Pro tip: Use small bags or shoe pouches to keep shoes separate from your clothes.


7. Maximize Luggage Space
When packing:
  • Fill small gaps with socks, undergarments, and small items.
  • Use every inch of available space, especially around the edges of your suitcase.
If your suitcase has a frame that creates awkward gaps, use those spaces for softer items like clothes or toiletry bags.


8. Plan for Laundry and Dirty Clothes
Bring a couple of lightweight laundry bags to separate clean clothes from dirty ones during your trip. Mesh laundry bags are compact and fit easily into your suitcase.


9. Bring Essential Extras
Don’t forget these small but important items:
  • Rain ponchos: Packable and perfect for those unpredictable Florida showers.
  • Reusable shopping bags: Handy for souvenirs and organizing items in your room.
  • Power banks: Essential for keeping your phone charged while using the My Disney Experience app.


Final Thoughts
Packing for a Disney trip doesn’t have to be stressful. By using packing cubes, organizing toiletries smartly, and keeping your carry-on stocked with essentials, you’ll be ready for anything. Whether you're preparing for a race or planning downtime at the pool, thoughtful packing makes the experience so much smoother.

If you have any luggage recommendations, especially for sturdy suitcases that hold up to travel, let me know! Happy packing—and enjoy your magical adventure!

​About Brittany: Brittany is a Disney and Universal travel expert with Magical Journeys Travel dedicated to making vacation planning simple and stress-free. She provides personalized guidance to help you build an amazing trip without feeling overwhelmed. Her services are completely free—Disney and Universal pay her agency a commission, so you get expert advice at no cost. Ready to make your dream trip a reality? Visit her at BrittanyForMagicalJourneys.com and start planning today!