Summertime Park Bag Essentials

That time of year is upon us. Summer! Longer days, shorter nights, tank tops and shorts… and in Florida – heat and humidity. It’s true that the summer heat can be tough to handle. Proper preparation and planning is crucial to both make the most enjoyable time of your family vacation to WDW, AND to keep you and your family safe. If you prefer to hit the parks for rope drop and stay to close the parks, packing your park bag properly will be a step in the right direction to ensure both of these bases are covered. Here are a few Summertime Park Bag Essentials to include on your packing list!

~Reusable Water Bottle~

Keep a water bottle with you to stay hydrated

Water can be readily obtained throughout the parks. By carrying a reusable water bottle with you, you can easily refill them wherever you may find yourself in need, without having to wait in line at a quick service location. Many have built in filters (if you aren’t a fan of the Florida water). Definitely consider filling up prior to getting into line for your next ride, so you can continue to drink while you wait. With a bottle that closes securely, there is less waste, and less opportunity to spill. When you’re finished, close it up, throw it back in your bag, and enjoy your ride!

~Cooling Towels~

Cooling Towels will be your best friend!

Cooling Towels will be your new best friend. Honestly! They are easy to find online, or even at your local superstore, are relatively inexpensive and can be reused often, even once you return home. Get each member of your traveling party one in their favorite color. Simply get them wet, snap them out and place them on the back of your neck. Most come in their own pouch, so you can place them back in there before putting them in your park bag to keep from getting anything else wet.

~Portable Neck Fans~

Portable and Rechargable Neckfans

Portable and rechargable, these neck fans can help keep you and your family cool. They come in numerous styles, and most have multiple speeds – some even have misters built in! Usually charged by USB ports, they can be charged throughout the day using the Battery Pack you most likely already have in your park bag to charge your phone.

~Safety First~

Midday Breaks

While all these tips can absolutely help make the most of your hot day in the parks, I can’t stress enough to not to take for granted escaping to some of the many air conditioned attractions, shops, and to even plan for a Table Service restaurant meal in the middle of the day to let you and your family recharge and cool down. And there is no shame in heading back to your resort for a dip in the pool and return to the parks later when the temps start to drop again.  Questions about how to best navigate the parks in the hot months of the year? Reach out to our friends at Destinations To Travel!

What are your favorite tips for staying cool in the parks? What “Stay Cool”  items do you keep in your park bag?