Firstimer Packing Advice

[paula70]

21 days until my families (Me, DH, DD8, DD5) first trip to DW! :banana: I have the suitcase all laid out on the extra bed...but every time I look at them I start to panic! :eek: Then I think "I have plenty of time!" But I know it is going to sneak up fast! So, i need all the veterans :worship: out there to give me your best packing advice! :goodvibes I've heard the ziploc baggie trick and intend to have plenty on hand. Also, I know im going to have to layer this time of year, so am planning on bringing Tide down to laundry 1/2 way through the trip. Any other great peices of advice for a newbie? :confused3

TIA-
Paula :earsgirl:

[momrek06]

21 days until my families (Me, DH, DD8, DD5) first trip to DW! :banana: I have the suitcase all laid out on the extra bed...but every time I look at them I start to panic! :eek: Then I think "I have plenty of time!" But I know it is going to sneak up fast! So, i need all the veterans :worship: out there to give me your best packing advice! :goodvibes I've heard the ziploc baggie trick and intend to have plenty on hand. Also, I know im going to have to layer this time of year, so am planning on bringing Tide down to laundry 1/2 way through the trip. Any other great peices of advice for a newbie? :confused3

TIA-
Paula :earsgirl:
YA, ME TOO, PAULA, I don't mean to JUMP on your THREAD!!! But I as well would love to hear from all you VETERAN packers. I absolutely HATE packing, I ALWAYS ALWAYS overpack and I get paranoid I won't have the right items!!
HELP US PLEASE!!! :upsidedow

[ZoZo]

A few things I learned from my trip in October:

1) Buy "emergency" ponchos (the kind you can buy for less than a dollar at Target or K-Mart in the camping section). They're very small and tuck easily into a pocket, purse, or fanny pack. I was so glad I had one with me - we had a torrential downpour the day before the hurricane in October, and it saved me about $7 because I didn't have to buy a WDW poncho (like my travel companions!).

2) I'm a compulsive over-packer. My advice is to put out everything you want to bring, then cut the amount in half. It's so easy to do laundry mid-trip. I brought a little of everything (shorts, jeans, long-sleeve, short-sleeve), not knowing what the weather would be like during the hurricane. As you said, plan to dress in layers and do laundry.

3) If you and your husband have cell phones, it's a great way to communicate! We had a group of four adults and made several calls per day to each other. That way, if you want to split up at all, you can have more flexibility (rather than trying to meet at specific places at specific times, which doesn't allow for unexpected things that come up!).

[smola09's mom]

I would only pack 1-2 sets of long pants and sweatshirts as they are very bulky and you can always wear them more than once.

[Goofy109]

:earsboy: Go out and buy, or maybe you have this at home...........an over the door shoe organizer !! The clear plastic things, with about 30 or so compartments ......for shoes. But you will hang it on the bathroom door of you're room and you can put all of the 'stuff' that would take up space at the sink and be in the way.......... now it is a CLEAN counter !!! :cool1: :cool1: ::yes::

[paula70]

Good idea about the jeans and sweatshirts, we always wear our jeans twice anyways! My DH says I have to force him to pack pants...being from WI, he guarantees me he will be in shorts every day! (keep in mind this guy cut down a x-mas tree one year in shorts because it was 55 and sunny :rotfl2: )I finally convinced to at least have 1 pr. for nightime! Any other great ideas? Keep them coming...
paula :earsgirl:

[DawnaJean]

Bring your chargers - cell phone charger, digital camera charger, etc.

If you do not have a digital camera, buy film at home and bring it....so expensive in the parks.

Bring basic OTC medicine you use frequently- tylenol/motrin to save money on buying in the parks. Pack necessary prescription meds with you in your carry-on.

If you rent strollers at the park, pack a bright colored bandana to tie around the handle so you can find yours quickly in the sea of strollers.

Have a great trip!
Dawna

[DawnaJean]

One more thing...pack glow-in-the-dark necklaces/bracelets from the dollar store and surprise the girls at parade time.....very cheap and the kids love them!

Get a bunch and they can give extra ones to the kids beside them waiting. My DDs loved giving them to kids. One way to make the wait easier.
Have Fun!
Dawna

[Lesleyluvdisney]

One more thing...pack glow-in-the-dark necklaces/bracelets from the dollar store and surprise the girls at parade time.....very cheap and the kids love them!

Get a bunch and they can give extra ones to the kids beside them waiting. My DDs loved giving them to kids. One way to make the wait easier.
Have Fun!
Dawna

That is a great idea.. If I have to pay ANOTHER $12-15 dollars for a spinning tinkerbell/mickey/buzz (or whoever they are peddling at the time). Light up rose/bands etc!!! thats a lot over a 17 day period!!!

[eeyoreforever]

:earsboy: Go out and buy, or maybe you have this at home...........an over the door shoe organizer !! The clear plastic things, with about 30 or so compartments ......for shoes. But you will hang it on the bathroom door of you're room and you can put all of the 'stuff' that would take up space at the sink and be in the way.......... now it is a CLEAN counter !!! :cool1: :cool1: ::yes::


This is a tip we used on our last trip and it really worked well. At first, I thought I'd never fill up all of the pockets, but I acutally could have used a few more. My bag had like 16 pockets (approx). We put suntan lotion, brushes, hair ribbons, toothpaste, q-tips, bandaids, moleskin, safety pins - every small item that we didn't want sitting on the counter, but also didn't want to have to dig through a drawer to find.

This (along with the moleskin) is one of the best tips I have ever picked up off of these boards.

Have fun on your trip.

[Wendy31]

Last year, I packed from an "outfit" list -

For both kids & myself (I let DH worry about himself), I had a list of each outfit(s) needed for each day.

For the kids, I put the whole outfits in gallon ziploc bags (shirt, shorts, underwear) & labeled the outside of the bag - Monday, Epcot. On some days, we had dinners scheduled where I wanted the kids to be in "fresh" clothes so I put those entire outfits in bags as well & labeled them accordingly - Friday, Dinner - Ohana.

This way, both I & DH knew what the child was wearing on what day and/or event. It was also easy to grab the bags out of their suitcases, lay them on their beds, & then let them dress themselves - w/o rummaging through the suitcases looking for matching shirts & shorts.

However, we were there in May, so I don't know if you can fit an entire outfit for February in a gallon bag, but the principle is the same.

In the same vein, I also planned matching outfits for all of us, so we knew what color was for each day - Monday was Epcot & Blue Shirts, Tuesday was MK & Disney shirts, etc.

Then, after I was sure that everyone had the right outfit(s) w/ all the accessories (underwear, hairbows, etc.) for each day, I packed the "extra" things like sleepwear, swimsuits w/ coverups, hats, & shoes, & a couple (or 3 or 4 or 5) of additional outfits & pairs of underwear & socks for each of us.

I also pre-packed the bag I took w/ us into the parks w/ ponchos, sunscreen, band-aids & Neosporin & 1st-Aid spray, lip balm, lipstick & compact (for me!), camera film, small notebook & pen, Tylenol & Benodryl, wipes, antibacterial gel, extra t-shirt/shorts & underwear for each kid, small sunglasses for the kids, etc. (Believe it or not - all this "stuff" fits into a small-to-medium-size messenger bag!)

We always drive, so I always overpack. But some "extra" essentials (besides the normal stuff) - scissors, tape, paper & pen/pencil, ziplock bags, rubber bands, safety pins & small sewing kit, Lysol (I spray the door handles, remote control, etc. when we first check into our room), spray bathroom cleaner or wipes (so I don't have to worry about our toothbrushes laying on the sink & don't have to worry about the kids sitting in the bathtub), paper plates & napkins, paper towels, flashlight, nightlight, sound machine, envelopes for tipping the mousekeepers, and my list goes on & on! :rotfl:

I've thought about the over-door organizer for this trip, and, in theory, I think it sounds marvelous. However, I don't think DH nor I are self-disciplined enough to get the stuff back into the organizer after we used it - everything would end up on the sink anyway! ;)

Have fun! I adore packing!!

[WIDisneyFan]

Good idea about the jeans and sweatshirts, we always wear our jeans twice anyways! My DH says I have to force him to pack pants...being from WI, he guarantees me he will be in shorts every day! (keep in mind this guy cut down a x-mas tree one year in shorts because it was 55 and sunny :rotfl2: )I finally convinced to at least have 1 pr. for nightime! Any other great ideas? Keep them coming...
paula :earsgirl:

As another normal person from WI here - 50's is perfect for shorts! :earsboy:

[paula70]

That is a great idea.. If I have to pay ANOTHER $12-15 dollars for a spinning tinkerbell/mickey/buzz (or whoever they are peddling at the time). Light up rose/bands etc!!! thats a lot over a 17 day period!!!
Any idea where to get these glow sticks and bracelets other than dollar stores? :confused3 We dont have a dollar store near here. TIA! :goodvibes
Paula :earsgirl:

[Banshee]

As another normal person from WI here - 50's is perfect for shorts! :earsboy:




I have to say were from NJ and 50's is perfect for shorts for us too! :rotfl:
Maybe I'm the crazy one :rotfl2:

[linda0706]

Any idea where to get these glow sticks and bracelets other than dollar stores? :confused3 We dont have a dollar store near here. TIA! :goodvibes
Paula :earsgirl:


I've gotten them at Walmart. In the toy department they usually have a section of cheap stuff hanging up for around $0.88. The bracelets are hanging there. We bought them for my DD4 to wear in the dark rides. Just enough light that she can see herself, which was all it took to keep her calm in the dark.

[Amlee]

A small surge charger w/an extention cord is great. There is never enough plug ins. I found one at wal-mart in the hardware department. It has like 4 plug ins.

[paula70]

THANKS EVERYONE! I am always amazed at all the great advice on these boards! :goodvibes You have all inspired me to get my stuff together and start packing this weekend! (First, I have to see if all the girls spring clothes fit? :confused3 ) WISH ME LUCK!

Paula :earsgirl:

[Big V]

Packing Tips:
Address book, stamps and pre-addressed labels
Admission passes (park hoppers) with copies made in case you lose it!
Alarm clock (rooms have, but to be sure)
Aloe Vera gel
Airplane ticket (with copies made)
Antacids (Pepcid, AC, Tums)
Antibacterial gel (travel size)
Autograph book and fat pen
Back pack (pre-packed)
Band-Aids / First Aid kit
Bandana (colored, to put on suitcase, so you can easily spot your luggage at airport) Bath powder/cornstarch
Batteries-for cameras
Beach towels
Bengay
Blankets (kids)
Blow dryer
Body spray- (bath & body cucumber melon!)
Books/magazines
Bottle straps for water bottles
Bubble bath (for private jacuzzis)
Brita water bottles with filter (the water is horrible in Orlando)
Brush/comb for hair
Camera (waterproof one for water parks)
Camera bag, pre-packed
Camcorder items
Camcorder bag (pre-packed)
Camcorder CHARGER
Camcorder tapes (affixed with labels beforehand)
Cash/Credit Card (only take one, so you don’t lose them),
travelers checks, checkbook, Disney $
CD/cassette player with headphones
Cell phones/chargers
Clothespins (for hanging wet bathing suits, close snack bags)
Coffee items
4 cup coffee maker
pre-measured coffee
Coins for pressed penny/quarter machines
Confirmation #'s for PS, recreation reservations, resort reservations,
special shows
Combs
Corkscrew
Cotton sweaters
Cough drops
Deodorant
Dental items – floss, toothbrushes, toothpaste
Directions (from airport to hotel and other locations)
Dish soap (in a small bottle, to wash refillable mugs, etc.)
Disney guidebooks and notes
Disney Club card
Disposable cameras-great for kids
Disposable contacts-for water parks
Dramamine
Drivers License/ID (for airport)
Duct tape
Earplugs / jewelry (just the basics!!)
Email addresses for email postcards
Emergency #'s or contacts from home
Envelopes for maid tips
Extras (broken in walking shoes, bathing suits etc)
Eye drops/Visine
Eyeglasses
Fabreeze
Fanny packs
Feminine items
Film
Flashlights (great for little ones afraid of dark rides)
Garbage bags (cut to "wear" on wet rides-we used ponchos)
Gum (they don't sell it in the parks)
GREEN RIBBON
Hairbrushes
Hair clips/pony tail holders
Hairspray
Hand-held games
Hats/visors/bandanas
Headache medicines
Health insurance cards
Identification for kids (with name, cell phone number, other info)
Insect repellent (not in winter)
Itinerary
Juice boxes
Kleenex
Laptop
Laundry soap/dryer sheets (pre-measured in ziplock baggies)
Lip balm with sunscreen
Lotion
Magic Marker (for writing names on mugs)
Makeup (SPF base is good! If you wear any at all!)
Makeup remover
Mister fan
Midol
Moleskin
Nail clippers/file
Needle and thread
Nightlight (one for each room for late night trips to bathroom)
Notebook and pens (for jotting down trip report details)
"office" items - mini scissors, mini stapler, paper clips
Other necessities like leg/foot braces, retainers, contacts, reading glasses
Pins for trading!
Photos of kids and ID (incase they get lost, God forbid!)
Playing cards/travel games
Plastic cutlery
Ponchos (cheap, disposable ones; any color but yellow!)
Prescription meds (migraine, inhalers, asthma, etc.)
Proof of auto insurance for rental cars
Purse/wallet/checkbook
Q-tips
Razor
Rain ponchos/umbrellas
Rubber bands
Safety pins
Sea Bands (for motion sickness)
Shampoo/Conditioner
Shaving cream
Sinus meds
Snacks (granola bars, small jar of p-nut butter, dried fruits and nuts)
Soap
Soft-side coolers
Spray bottle (for hot days at the pool)
Spray-for feet
Spare batteries
Stain remover wipes (or stick)
Stamps (postcard)
Sunglasses & wags (string to hang them around your neck)
Sunscreen/sunblock
Sugar/Equal, teabags too
Suitcase (empty to bring back souvenirs)
Swiss army knife
Tape (double sided for emergency repairs)
Tea bags
Thread / threaded needle
Trash bags- (for dirty laundry etc)
Tweezers
Umbrella (only a few of us need to bring one)
Vaseline
Video camera & extra tapes
Vitamins
Walkie talkies
Water bottles
Watch (waterproof!)
Waterproof envelope (to carry important items in backpack)
Water shoes
Wet wipes
Ziploc bags

Label everything-each film canister and videotape, hats and jackets-anything that you take or wear to a park that you can't or don't want to replace. I printed out labels with our last name and cell phone number so that if we lose something, we can receive a message while we are still there.
Kids' Totes Ideas:
books (Disney)/magazine
bubbles (small, on a string)
crayons
Disney coloring books
Disney dollars
Disney folder (to keep menus and pictures they've colored, and other souvenirs, in)
Disney gloves (may need in winter)
Disney hair clips
Disney jewelry
Disney markers
Disney mitten clips
Disney notebook
Disney pez/candy
Disney sox
disposable camera
fat pen
magnetic travel games
puzzle books
snacks
travel games
LUGGAGE
Use zip strips through your zippers instead of locks. Bring enough for trip home. Tie bandanas on handle to easily recognize at airport.
CARRY ON BAGS
To fit under the seat, a bag should be no more than 8H x 16W x 21L and no more than 40 pounds. To fit overhead, it should be no more than 10H x 16W x 24L. A garment bag brought on board should be no more than 4H x 23?? W x 45L. Any of these bags should be no more than 45 inches and 40 pounds. (Check your airline's website for their specific rules.)
ITEMS TO BRING IN CARRYON BAG
change of clothes
airline tickets
essential toiletries
park passes/trip documentation
camera/camcorder
film/extra batteries
cell phone.
Before you go:
Stop newspaper delivery.
Stop mail delivery.
Drop information off at police dept.
name
address
home phone number
vacation dates
vacation phone numbers
cell phone numbers
local emergency contact and phone number
info about the house
cars left in front of the house/license plate numbers
which lights will be left on, or timed
whether or not anyone will be checking on the house, and a description of their car/license plate.
Leave itinerary and phone numbers of resort(s) with family members
"LAST MINUTE" THINGS TO DO:
Check all door locks.
Check all window locks.
Reduce Heating /AC settings.
Secure all outdoor items (trailer, chairs, pool stuff, swings).
Set plants in water pans if someone cannot water for you.
Unplug appliances:
TVs
Coffee maker
Toaster
Microwave
Washer
Dryer.
Set light timers.
Set burglar alarm.

[KZE]

I love getting ready for vacation. It gets me in the mood. We are headed to Disney in two weeks and we are pretty much ready to go. I start out by making myself a list. I do a clothes list, food/snacks and misc list (sunblock, hats, etc). I then just start piling them and set aside.

For some reason, I have to worst luck with all my luggage arriving when I do so I take two suitcases for my family (three of us). Split your clothes up - put different clothes for everyone in both suitcases. This way if one suitcase is late getting there or lost, you all have at least something to wear.

I agree with the other comments - don't take pants and sweatshirts for every day - you can wear them more than once. The worse case scenario - you will have to buy a Disney sweatshirt :)

[metivier]

Any idea where to get these glow sticks and bracelets other than dollar stores? :confused3 We dont have a dollar store near here. TIA! :goodvibes
Paula :earsgirl:

Oriental Trading Company has lots of them.

[jworthy]

if you are flying, make sure you weigh your luggage first as most airlines only allow up to 50 lbs. otherwise they will charge you an extra amount.

[Medicmouse]

Great post Paula! We are exactly in the same boat. We are leaving in 20 days for our first trip too. DH, DD11, DS9 and me. My suit cases too are sitting on the spare bed calling too me. Now that we are under 3 weeks I guess I better finalize packing even the small stuff. I am from Ontario - so I'm packing mainly shorts/capris - if we are cold we can throw on a sweatshirt - right? I don't expect to be cold though! Feb weather in Florida is equal to our July weather here. To top off our similar situations - my name is Paula too!

Have fun!

Paula - Ontario Canada

How long are you going for? How much are you packing?

[irishbosoxfan]

Any idea where to get these glow sticks and bracelets other than dollar stores? :confused3 We dont have a dollar store near here. TIA! :goodvibes
Paula :earsgirl:


Paula70--This is my first post and I can finally impart some wisdom--We are going in July and staying at Ft Wilderness and were considering buying them for our three girls. The best place I have found to buy them is Ebay. They offer many different kinds from bracelets to necklaces and beyond. The price varies as does the amount you can buy. You can find sellers with 3 all the way up to 100. And the prices ranged from $3 to $25. Hope this helps you!


:hippie:

[paula70]

Great post Paula! We are exactly in the same boat. We are leaving in 20 days for our first trip too. DH, DD11, DS9 and me. My suit cases too are sitting on the spare bed calling too me. Now that we are under 3 weeks I guess I better finalize packing even the small stuff. I am from Ontario - so I'm packing mainly shorts/capris - if we are cold we can throw on a sweatshirt - right? I don't expect to be cold though! Feb weather in Florida is equal to our July weather here. To top off our similar situations - my name is Paula too!

Have fun!

Paula - Ontario Canada

How long are you going for? How much are you packing?
Hi Paula from Ontario! :goodvibes We are going to be in DW from 2/8-2/14 staying at POFQ. I got my DD's partially packed yesterday. :cheer2: I packed 4 complete outfits (capris, t-shirt and shorts, in gallon ziploc bags) for each of them, then packed each 2 sweatshirts (one lightweight, one heavy) and 1 pair of jeans. We have a night off on our 3rd full day there and plan on doing laundry. Iplan on doing the same for me. My guess is I will mostly wear capris (not sure if i want to show my WI white legs!). :scared1:
To all my fellow DISers...Thank you very much for all the great advice :thanks: I feel inspired now and not overwhelmed for the first time! Feel free to keep the great advice coming...

Paula70 ::MinnieMo :goofy: :smickey: :tink: :maleficen :tigger: :sulley: pluto: (I had to let my DD5 help w/ the icons!)

[first time at 40]

Big V thanks for the list. You think like my husband who thinks I should have a list to pack buy. I printed yours and said Here is your list. LOL I was so inspired I packed my carryon bag today and have the kids trying on their clothes from summer to see if they fit......Boy do they grow fast..... Going to home depot to buy a surge protector extension to plug those cell phones in (what a great idea) and get my alien green mickey heads.....LOL.....

[spaceacewannabe]

I wouldn't say shorts, but definitely short sleeves!

[paula70]

I wouldn't say shorts, but definitely short sleeves!
To each his own...but if it is 65 here in WI, my family is in shorts! :sunny: Now, keep in mind we swam in the ocean in Myrtle Beach last march when it was only 65-70 degrees...LOL! :rotfl2: So we will be the crazy ones in the pool as well :jumping1:

We have freinds that have been there the last 4 years in Feb and they wore shorts/capris most of the time! Now that being said, I have learned enough on these boards :disrocks: to know to pack for all kinds of weather!

17 days and counting.... :goodvibes

[Medicmouse]

Hi Paula!
We are going Feb 11-18. We are going to a wedding on the 14th and the 15th is my 33rd Birthday - definitly its going to be the best one of my life. We are staying at POR! I can't believe how similar things seem to be for us. I am definitly hiding my white legs - unless I'm swimming. :) I was planning on packing a few pairs of pants each (3 actually :confused3 ) do you think that is going to be too much? I am getting the packing bug today - I have a big list of things to pick up downtown - Yah!! I'm getting soooo excited! Are you bringing towels for the water park? I have read some sites that say yes and some that say no?

Paula - Ontario

[keishashadow]

As another poster stated - leave @ least 1/2 of your planned outfits @ home!

All of the on-site resorts have a laundy room if you're stuck (@ the AS's they're near the pool - you can swim & do your laundy @ same time).

As for all the sundry/drug store items; I used to lug them all w/us. Finally have wised up...if you need an item you don't generally use every day - they'll have it @ the gift shop. Still take the things we use each day & sun-care products, anti-biotic cream, motrin, etc...but refuse to bring my medicine chest anymore.

Do suggest that you bring 2 pair of socks per day...nothing nicer than soft, dry socks on tired feet; as well as 2 pair of comfortable shoes to change out every other day.

For kids, we always carried a change of t-shirt w/us...my DS's always managed to spill something while they ate.

Big fan of the "jungle/safari" style hats...water proof them & you might not have to always put on the poncho when it's raining lightly.

Finally, bring:
*an extension cord w/multiple outlets,
*plenty of large, zip-lock bags &
*disposable cameras (water-proof are nice) for the kids, and extra film/memory cards (or have them burned on CD @ park).

Good luck.

[mickeywho?]

Any idea where to get these glow sticks and bracelets other than dollar stores? :confused3 We dont have a dollar store near here. TIA! :goodvibes
Paula :earsgirl:

Check out party supply stores. We have "Party Packagers" here in Ontario. I buy a 50 pack of bracelets for $10. We hand them out at Halloween to any kids prefer them over candy (with allergies etc.) and we buy them for the Cub troupe for their night hikes. I'll definitely bring down a pack for our trip - at that price we'll be passing them out to any little ones around us! pixiedust:

[jennydep]

Subscribing to the thread for our daughter's wish trip in April.

[lordhavemercy]

:thumbsup2 :love: :thumbsup2
Jumping into this thread....Love it....especially the over-the-door organizer. Going to have to do that one...!!!
I do a list...and make "piles" of different categories of things we're packing. We leave in 11 days...driving,so I need to start packing :hourglass ...time is a wastin'...!!!
thanks for the great threads....i've learned a LOT... :tink:

[momofbgtwins]

I have to agree with those who recommended not overpacking. I have been over the 50 lb limit a few times! There's nothing worse than being in the airport, and trying to shift stuff from one suitcase to another in front of everyone. Not to mention the dirty looks coming from my DH, who can pack for a week in 5 minutes in one rolling duffle! I also used to try to pack everything I could possibly need, but then realized I wasn't going to a deserted island! If the kids get a cold...off to the store for medicine!

[paula70]

Lordhave mercy...looks like we'll be at POFQ at the same time! We're there fro 2/8-2/14. It is my families (me, DH, DD8, DD5) first ever trip to WDW! :banana: I got my girls mostly packed last weekend, thanks to all the great advice I got from this thread! :disrocks: Now, i am working on me! :goodvibes Have a great trip! :cool1:
Paula :earsgirl:

[pawsitivemom]

I am notorious for over packing too. My list is about 1.5 typed pages long. AND...my theory is...if I forget it I can buy it. I also plan on doing laundry at least once. For 5night, 6 day...plus 4-5 days travell, I am bringing (for clothes).....3 sweatshirts, 3 t-shirts, 2 "dress" t's, 2 dress shirts, 2 pairs of jeans, 1 skirt, 1 dress pants, 3 shorts, 2 capris, 9 socks plus pjs, unmentionables, 3-4 shoes and swimsuit.....DH thinks that is too much as it is! (esp the shoes!) BUT...I never know what I will "feel like" wearing so I pack most of what I own! :blush: :rotfl:

My main suggestion for packing (even though I haven't been to disney I do travel) Don't stress....pack what you *know* you will need then, if there is room, add what you "may" need.

BTW....I *LOVE* the organizer idea.....I'm getting one for my camper too!

[Drizzo67]

We also pack a folding (collapsable) laundry basket to throw dirty clothes in. They have handles that we use to carry it to the laundry room and easily carry back the clean folded clothes. We also pack extra hangers as there are never enough in the room. (Our winter coats take up 4 alone- poor things, they just sit there all week, not being used :furious: ).

Dina Marie :hippie:

[IMGONNABE40!]

Go to your favorite store and replace all of your personal care items. Now take the ones that are not quite empty/full and pack them in your bag. Leave it packed. If you run out of an item--say deodarant while you are gone, simply replace it with the one you have at home when you return and replace the one from home with a new one. Leave these items packed for future trips.

Fold up one or two large ziploc bags (I used the two gallon size last trip) and put them into your pocket/fanny pack/messenger bag, etc. When you are going on a water ride, remove the ziploc and put all of your stuff into it--fanny pack, hat, tickets, camera, cell phone, etc. I usually bring along a washcloth from my room--yes, I return it at the end of the day--so I can dry may face when I get off of the ride.

[cwnhokie]

I soooo want to start packing. We leave Feb 25th for 10 days. I am trying to wait until it gets closer to see the weather. We will be in a house with a washer and dryer. I was thinking 2-3 of everything. pants, shorts, short sleeves, long sleeves, sweat shirts, and of course more of the under things. I always overpack and refuse to do it again. We have to lug 2 carseats through the airport as it is, no need for extra clothes as well. When we get home DH and I always have a contest to see who wore the most of what they brought.

[carolfoy]

I use a canvas 'sweater shelf' it has about 6 shelves in it and a velcro strap at the top to hang over the rail. I put 2 days worth of clothes in each shelf and then just squash it down into my suitcase, when I arrive I can then just open my case and hang the whole thing up, so no 'unpacking', when everythings dirty it goes back in the case and takes up far less room so theres lots of space for souvenirs.

[Secondgradememories]

Something I brought last time that paid off big time was a small bottle of delicate laundry detergent. It was nice to wash out our swimming suits every day and catch a few stains before they set.

[ZoZo]

Packing Tips:
Address book, stamps and pre-addressed labels
Admission passes (park hoppers) with copies made in case you lose it!
Alarm clock (rooms have, but to be sure)
Aloe Vera gel
Airplane ticket (with copies made)
Antacids (Pepcid, AC, Tums)
Antibacterial gel (travel size)
Autograph book and fat pen
Back pack (pre-packed)
Band-Aids / First Aid kit
Bandana (colored, to put on suitcase, so you can easily spot your luggage at airport) Bath powder/cornstarch
Batteries-for cameras
Beach towels
Bengay
Blankets (kids)
Blow dryer
Body spray- (bath & body cucumber melon!)
Books/magazines
Bottle straps for water bottles
Bubble bath (for private jacuzzis)
Brita water bottles with filter (the water is horrible in Orlando)
Brush/comb for hair
Camera (waterproof one for water parks)
Camera bag, pre-packed
Camcorder items
Camcorder bag (pre-packed)
Camcorder CHARGER
Camcorder tapes (affixed with labels beforehand)
Cash/Credit Card (only take one, so you don’t lose them),
travelers checks, checkbook, Disney $
CD/cassette player with headphones
Cell phones/chargers
Clothespins (for hanging wet bathing suits, close snack bags)
Coffee items
4 cup coffee maker
pre-measured coffee
Coins for pressed penny/quarter machines
Confirmation #'s for PS, recreation reservations, resort reservations,
special shows
Combs
Corkscrew
Cotton sweaters
Cough drops
Deodorant
Dental items – floss, toothbrushes, toothpaste
Directions (from airport to hotel and other locations)
Dish soap (in a small bottle, to wash refillable mugs, etc.)
Disney guidebooks and notes
Disney Club card
Disposable cameras-great for kids
Disposable contacts-for water parks
Dramamine
Drivers License/ID (for airport)
Duct tape
Earplugs / jewelry (just the basics!!)
Email addresses for email postcards
Emergency #'s or contacts from home
Envelopes for maid tips
Extras (broken in walking shoes, bathing suits etc)
Eye drops/Visine
Eyeglasses
Fabreeze
Fanny packs
Feminine items
Film
Flashlights (great for little ones afraid of dark rides)
Garbage bags (cut to "wear" on wet rides-we used ponchos)
Gum (they don't sell it in the parks)
GREEN RIBBON
Hairbrushes
Hair clips/pony tail holders
Hairspray
Hand-held games
Hats/visors/bandanas
Headache medicines
Health insurance cards
Identification for kids (with name, cell phone number, other info)
Insect repellent (not in winter)
Itinerary
Juice boxes
Kleenex
Laptop
Laundry soap/dryer sheets (pre-measured in ziplock baggies)
Lip balm with sunscreen
Lotion
Magic Marker (for writing names on mugs)
Makeup (SPF base is good! If you wear any at all!)
Makeup remover
Mister fan
Midol
Moleskin
Nail clippers/file
Needle and thread
Nightlight (one for each room for late night trips to bathroom)
Notebook and pens (for jotting down trip report details)
"office" items - mini scissors, mini stapler, paper clips
Other necessities like leg/foot braces, retainers, contacts, reading glasses
Pins for trading!
Photos of kids and ID (incase they get lost, God forbid!)
Playing cards/travel games
Plastic cutlery
Ponchos (cheap, disposable ones; any color but yellow!)
Prescription meds (migraine, inhalers, asthma, etc.)
Proof of auto insurance for rental cars
Purse/wallet/checkbook
Q-tips
Razor
Rain ponchos/umbrellas
Rubber bands
Safety pins
Sea Bands (for motion sickness)
Shampoo/Conditioner
Shaving cream
Sinus meds
Snacks (granola bars, small jar of p-nut butter, dried fruits and nuts)
Soap
Soft-side coolers
Spray bottle (for hot days at the pool)
Spray-for feet
Spare batteries
Stain remover wipes (or stick)
Stamps (postcard)
Sunglasses & wags (string to hang them around your neck)
Sunscreen/sunblock
Sugar/Equal, teabags too
Suitcase (empty to bring back souvenirs)
Swiss army knife
Tape (double sided for emergency repairs)
Tea bags
Thread / threaded needle
Trash bags- (for dirty laundry etc)
Tweezers
Umbrella (only a few of us need to bring one)
Vaseline
Video camera & extra tapes
Vitamins
Walkie talkies
Water bottles
Watch (waterproof!)
Waterproof envelope (to carry important items in backpack)
Water shoes
Wet wipes
Ziploc bags

Label everything-each film canister and videotape, hats and jackets-anything that you take or wear to a park that you can't or don't want to replace. I printed out labels with our last name and cell phone number so that if we lose something, we can receive a message while we are still there.
Kids' Totes Ideas:
books (Disney)/magazine
bubbles (small, on a string)
crayons
Disney coloring books
Disney dollars
Disney folder (to keep menus and pictures they've colored, and other souvenirs, in)
Disney gloves (may need in winter)
Disney hair clips
Disney jewelry
Disney markers
Disney mitten clips
Disney notebook
Disney pez/candy
Disney sox
disposable camera
fat pen
magnetic travel games
puzzle books
snacks
travel games
LUGGAGE
Use zip strips through your zippers instead of locks. Bring enough for trip home. Tie bandanas on handle to easily recognize at airport.
CARRY ON BAGS
To fit under the seat, a bag should be no more than 8H x 16W x 21L and no more than 40 pounds. To fit overhead, it should be no more than 10H x 16W x 24L. A garment bag brought on board should be no more than 4H x 23?? W x 45L. Any of these bags should be no more than 45 inches and 40 pounds. (Check your airline's website for their specific rules.)
ITEMS TO BRING IN CARRYON BAG
change of clothes
airline tickets
essential toiletries
park passes/trip documentation
camera/camcorder
film/extra batteries
cell phone.
Before you go:
Stop newspaper delivery.
Stop mail delivery.
Drop information off at police dept.
name
address
home phone number
vacation dates
vacation phone numbers
cell phone numbers
local emergency contact and phone number
info about the house
cars left in front of the house/license plate numbers
which lights will be left on, or timed
whether or not anyone will be checking on the house, and a description of their car/license plate.
Leave itinerary and phone numbers of resort(s) with family members
"LAST MINUTE" THINGS TO DO:
Check all door locks.
Check all window locks.
Reduce Heating /AC settings.
Secure all outdoor items (trailer, chairs, pool stuff, swings).
Set plants in water pans if someone cannot water for you.
Unplug appliances:
TVs
Coffee maker
Toaster
Microwave
Washer
Dryer.
Set light timers.
Set burglar alarm.

Wow! What a compehensive list! Great ideas, but probably only workable if you drive instead of fly, since clothes are not on the list.

[Big V]

Wow! What a compehensive list! Great ideas, but probably only workable if you drive instead of fly, since clothes are not on the list.
I knew I forgot something! Clothes! ;) Actually, we have never driven down to WDW. :confused3 We don't bring all of this list. It's more like a "suggestion list" than a packing list. :teeth:

[vhoffman]

Here'a another suggestion--a hairdryer. Yes, I know all just about all hotels provide them now. However, they're wall-mounted in the bathroom. Well, what if someone else wants to use the bathroom and yu're in there drying your hair? Also, more than one person can dry their hair at once. It really is a stress-buster to take another along. Just get a small, travel-type.

[vhoffman]

For unpredictable weather get at least one pair of Cargo pants--the type that you can zip off the bottom half of the legs and turn them into shorts. Great for a day at the park if it starts out hot then becomes chilly. Just take your "pant legs" with you and zip up! :banana:

[lordhavemercy]

ok...we're ready :thumbsup2 I bought the over-the-door hanger AND the collapsable laundry hamper with handles...!!!! WHOO-HOOO!!! :woohoo:
....i'm sure i'll over-pack...always do. I try to cut back...but when i've packed..i'm not sure what to take out....i get full of "what-if's"... :confused:

[Soccerpooh]

Something we forgot last year was an extra pair of shoes for DSs and DH. We got caught in a huge downpour in MK just as we were thinking about leaving. It came down so fast there was standing water EVERYWHERE! Of course our shoes were soaked. DH spent a good 1 1/2 hours back at WL laundry room sitting in front of the dryer, holding the door shut (Shoes knocked the door open every 3 minutes :headache:!! ) We had no choice- they had no other shoes for the next day! Moral of my story- pack 2 pairs of shoes for everyone!!

[RUDisney]

http://www.illuminationz.com/ is the place I usually go to buy glow bracelets and glow rings for our trips. Our kids love giving them out to other kids at night, too.

It's a great way to spread the magic!

I second the motion on taking 2 pairs of long pants/capris per person.

DH and I went in December 1997 and only had the jeans that we wore down with us. Hey, we were going to FL and it was supposed to be warm.

Only thing is... it was cold for 2-3 days. We wore our jeans all of those days and then home again at the end of the trip. We also bought sweatshirts since I didn't pack any for us. I was happy to throw them in the washer when we got home. Thankfully, it got warmer and we could wear our shorts the rest of the time.

[DisneyMomOfThree]

Target has the glow in the dark necklaces. I am going to try convince my DH that we need these for the trip :rotfl2: . I really like the idea of sharing the pixie dust.

[jeanadave]

Some great ideas! Thanks (I really like the shoe organizer thing). I'm a serious overpacker, but I'm really going to try to pack lighter this time (even though this is our first trip to Disney -- well, it might as well be, it's been 20 years!). Maybe I can use the shoe organizer for things other than shoes (I take a girls' beach trip every year, and a couple of years ago, I took 13, yes THIRTEEN! pairs of shoes - I think I wore the same pair of flipflops all week - but my friends (two of whom wore the same size as me) got a kick out of picking through my shoes every day!)

[pooch]

charter member of overpackers anonymous!! Told everyone this time:

4 shirts (one "good" one)
3 pr shorts
1 pr long pants (probably khaki's of some sort)
1 sweatshirt or jacket
4-5 pr socks & undies
sneakers & sandals (wear the sneakers down there!)
Pj's
swimsuit
toiletries
sundries

That's it. I'm hoping for 1 checked bag (w/an empty duffle inside) and 2 small
carry-ons. Ok, I said HOPING. I will do laundry once, maybe twice, down there and if we run out of clothes, them t-shirts make great souveniers!!!

Pooch

[ZoZo]

charter member of overpackers anonymous!! Told everyone this time:

4 shirts (one "good" one)
3 pr shorts
1 pr long pants (probably khaki's of some sort)
1 sweatshirt or jacket
4-5 pr socks & undies
sneakers & sandals (wear the sneakers down there!)
Pj's
swimsuit
toiletries
sundries

That's it. I'm hoping for 1 checked bag (w/an empty duffle inside) and 2 small
carry-ons. Ok, I said HOPING. I will do laundry once, maybe twice, down there and if we run out of clothes, them t-shirts make great souveniers!!!

Pooch

Good for you! I, too, am a chronic over-packer. Took twice as much as I needed last October, because I did do laundry mid-week.

Don't forget the emergency ponchos! They saved us, big-time, because we went during the hurricane in October. Those in our group who didn't have the 79-cent version had to buy the WDW ponchos (at several dollars more) - I was so glad I had tucked my little poncho in my fanny pack! It worked just as well as the expensive ones, plus I was able to throw it away afterward!!

[NotUrsula]

The first thing to do is put the suitcase back in the closet! Suitcases are deadly for overpackers, because you feel compelled to fill them.

Put the things you intend to bring into some sort of container you can see into all around, such as a laundry basket; put your open baskets on a bed or someplace with room, check them for duplicates, etc., and THEN transfer the items into suitcases. I guarantee you won't bring as much. (This especially cuts down on toiletries duplication.)

Unless you already have a PS for V&A's, forget about packing something dressy "just in case"; you won't wear it. "Casual Friday" style stuff is the dressiest thing you would need at WDW, and only bring one like that. Do not pack jeans at all--they are heavy, bulky, and not warm at all if warm is what you are providing for; a pr. of khakis and a pr. of silk longjohns are a much better combination and take up a LOT less space.

Assign one person in the family to do the final packing of everyone's bags. That prevents unnecessary duplication. A good rule to follow is that no item of clothing gets into a suitcase unless it matches at least two other items. Do bring 2 pr. of shoes, but exclude shoes that are put in to match a particular outfit; you need both pr. of shoes to match anything there. I personally recommend sports sandals if the weather is warm enough; they are very comfortable, can get wet with no problem, and they don't require socks.

[cwnhokie]

For late Feb/early March, should we take sandals for DSs. That is all they wore last May. Especially since DS5 is a magnet for water. Will it be too cool this time of year? I guess I had better go look for them or it's not even an issue. I think it may finally be time for me to starty packing. :yay: :yay:

[JennSaint]

For late Feb/early March, should we take sandals for DSs. That is all they wore last May. Especially since DS5 is a magnet for water. Will it be too cool this time of year? I guess I had better go look for them or it's not even an issue. I think it may finally be time for me to starty packing. :yay: :yay:

I always pack sandals for everyone and we are leaving in one week. Usually the boys will wear their sandals to go to the pool. Geez I just realized I better go and get the suitcases out today. LOL :teeth:

[goofy4tink]

For those flying into Orlando from the chillier spots....I always fly in my jeans, turtleneck, sweatshirt and windbreaker, with heavish socks and sneakers. That way I don't have to use up space in my luggage and I will have that stuff for the chilly nights in WDW. I also pack a pair of shoes that can get wet...my Crocs, water sandals. I have about 4 of those disposable rain ponchos for each person. They go in the fanny pack every day...doesn't matter if rain is predicted or not.
Be sure to pack shorts/tee shirt in your carryon. Also put anything you may need for the first 5 hrs of your stay. Just in case your bags get held up. Then you have clothes to change into when you get there rather then keep those 'heavy' clothes on.
The shoe organizer is a great thing. I always bring it if there are more than two of us going. We also use the zip-loc bags a lot. The dirty clothes go in when the clean ones come out..unless I do laundry there. I only do laundry if I'm staying more than 5 nights.

[mommyluvsmickey]

thanks from me too! :cloud9: We will on our way before we know it too!

[tinkerbell716]

:thumbsup2 This thread is great I just subsrcibed to it. Thanks for all the great advice.

[cwnhokie]

I just read the 10 day forecast for Orlando. The temps range from 32 to 81, how do you not overpack with a range like that?

[Rebecca12345]

If you have a digital camera, take a photo of your group each morning before you leave your hotel IN CASE any small child gets separated from your group (HEAVEN FORBID) You have an instant ID to show CM to help search - Your color coordinated outfits is a WONDERFUL idea. It really does make a difference to spot your group quickly.

On a side note, always state a meeting place in each new area you enter in case you get separated (unless you all have a cell phone then you can just call :cool1: )

On a lighter note, if you collect the smashed pennies from the many machines thruout the parks, take a film canister of quarters & shiny pennies in your fanny pack- The smashed pennies are a wonderful collector item for kids who have out grown stuffed animals ALOT cheaper too :yay: You can buy smashed penny booklets to store the collection in =Very cool

Gum is not sold in any Disney park (for obvious reasons) If you are a gum chewer - pack some or go without

Did you mention sunscreen already? The small sizes are found in the dollar aisle at Target or grocery store or there are the stick versions= very portable

Don't forget to take a wide pen (easier for Disney characters to grasp) & some type of small autograph book for when you meet the CM!

Pack well worn shoes - don't bring brand new ones=blisters! Another trick is to take an extra pair of socks to switch halfway thru the day I found it cuts down on any blisters or hot spots if one is prone to that. Also switch from one pair of shoes to the other each day You will be walking approx 7 miles a day (I checked we wore pedometers last time!) so don't neglect your feet or you'll be miserable :sad2:

Sunglasses with a neckstrap, so they are secured to you (they will need to be removed on some rides though :)

Hat -to prevent sunburned noses & if it rains, you can cover your wet hairdo

Shorts or pants with CARGO pockets It cuts down on all the little items in the backpack/fanny pack

I suggest small ziplock baggies for your camera & cell phone in case it rains, or wet ride to protect the electronics in your pocket or fanny pack

I also carry some wet wipes in small foil packs - I dole out enough for each family member each day & they keep them in their pockets / nice before a quick snack & no bathroom nearby to wash up

I placed an address label on my digital camera In case it was left someplace, there is a better chance of it being reunited with me :3dglasses

[bscs]

I just read the 10 day forecast for Orlando. The temps range from 32 to 81, how do you not overpack with a range like that?

::yes:: ::yes:: ::yes::

Also everyone says bring half of what we need and do laundry. Well we do have a washer & dryer in our rented condo but I worry about everything including "what if the washer is broken?'

I should go take somethings out of my suitcase right now :confused3 :confused3

[DonnaL]

Hi all,

As far as taking the whole medicine chest with you.......I used to do the same thing. However, I found I can take a little of most everything with me by taking things out of original containers (most cold medicines are foil wrapped and so are a lot of other things also) to really save space. I bought a plastic compartment container in my local dollar store. It's about 10 inches long by 5 inches wide (almost looks like a pencil case) and is divided into 10 compartments on the top and two long narrow compartments on the bottom. I've found I can put all the ibuprofen, Tylenol, antacid, etc. in the top and on the bottom bigger items like bandaids, small tube of antibiotic cream, benadryl stick, etc. I just then throw it in my carryon and I've got my medicine chest with us from airport to checkin. Then, I always take a small purse type canvas knapsack (my Disney purse) with me to the parks so the container gets transferred to the knapsack after checkin and I've got whatever someone may need during our trip. It's very lightweight and easy to carry.

[DisneyMomOfThree]

One thing I learned to pack this last trip is a can of Lysol for those times when you need the bathroom and your loved one has just got out. :rotfl2:

[mommyluvsmickey]

thanks for this info ......I am packing now~ :banana:

[PrincessNED]

bump :thumbsup2

[DisneyArk]

I just read the 10 day forecast for Orlando. The temps range from 32 to 81, how do you not overpack with a range like that?

We've been in November and December and I was stressed about this also. I bought each of us a Disney zip up "hoodie" sweat shirt. DH and our sons are typically not cold, so they wore shorts and short sleeved shirts with the hoodie over it (jeans on cloudy days). If it was going to be warm then I wore capri pants with a short sleeved shirt and the hoodie over it. When it warmed up we would wear the hoodies tied around our waist or put them in the backpack. One day we rented a locker to store them in. As the temperature dropped at night we put the hoodies back on.

That worked well for us! :thumbsup2 I did not want to pack 2 outfits for each day and we do not go back to the resort during the day (to change).

We're going back on May 13th and I'm not planning to pack anything for cold weather! :yay:

[pezheadmeg]

We always do the same thing with the sweatshirts. I'm the nutty type who packs each outfit separately even though it's just myself. I did Disney with my best friend from high school one January and I was able to pack everything into the largest LL BEAN boat bag for 5 days. Also, if you do the Zip-Lock thing, nothing will get fully destroyed if airport security has to open and check the bags. :yay:

[Boncho]

This year when I went into the dollar store for our ponchos and shoe organizer I saw the neatest thing - a clothes dryer of sorts. After swimming in the pool, it seemed as though our bathroom at the resort was always packed full of wet bathingsuits and towels. Well this little clothes dryer has a hook to hang on the shower rod and arms that you pull down with a clothes pin at the end of every arm. We will be able to hang all 4 bathingsuits on it and it will take up alot less room..
Any more ideas out there?
All I do is sing "We're going to Disney - We're going to Disney" all day long!

:cheer2: :cheer2:

[tmtg]

I will be staying onsite, and am wondering if I need to bring my own laundry detergent, or do they have some there?

[RUDisney]

They have it there, but it's expensive. You're better off deciding how many loads you expect to do and double or triple bagging detergent in sandwich bags. Then place some fabric softener sheets in another bag and you're good to go.

[tmtg]

They have it there, but it's expensive. You're better off deciding how many loads you expect to do and double or triple bagging detergent in sandwich bags. Then place some fabric softener sheets in another bag and you're good to go.

thanks!

[theycallmewinnie]

For laundry soap, I always pack the tablet type. They come 2 to a cellophane pack and I ziploc them in a small bag. They sometimes break apart a bit, but there is not much danger of a spill and they are very compact. I also usually take a small bottle of woolite for handwashing suits. Dryer sheets in a sandwich bag also are necessary.

[dapookie09]

Packing Tips:



Bubble bath (for private jacuzzis)




Maybe save the bubble bath for just a nice bathtub...if you mix bubble bath with a bubbler or jacuzzi you get way more bubbles than you bargained for! (learned from experience)

[pezheadmeg]

In the event I'm going and will be doing laundry, I stock up on mail samples, or run to the local laundromat for the tiny boxes. As for fabric softener sheets, I'm a full believer in packing every thing in oversized ziplock bags, planning on doing laundry or not, I always toss in a fabric softener sheet, it keeps everything smelling fresh.

[Leah and Emily's mom]

I am obsessed with my girls cordinating their clothes so the pictures look better. I always lay the clothes out on thhe bed in stacks for each day so that I am sure we all cordinate. (except for Dad who never has anything pink)