Assume you have the perfect WDW backpack/cooler/waistpack combo...

[SkipperBubba]

I'm with DW (doombuggybabe) on the utility of the geek vest. It might not be the best choice on a hot, humid day, as it is an extra layer, but the myriad pockets easily hold the digital camera, extra memory cards and batteries, admission media, cell phone, wallet, car keys, sunglasses, etc. Plus, it's easier to display a greater variety of pins without a lanyard hanging on your neck all day. The backpack may have more space, but that will also tempt you to load up heavier.

An addition to the geek vest (if you can find them) are 12-gallon Ziploc bags. I had to search them out on Ebay, but they are big enough to fit everything that we want to keep dry on Kali River Rapids (both geek vests, cameras, cell phones, the kitchen sink). If you can find them, get a pack.



As an addendum to finding giant Ziploc bags on Ebay, DW found them at the grocery store. They come in boxes of three and are listed as Ziploc XXL.

 

[daisylove]

I did not know they made 12 gallon ziplocks. I was just really proud of myself because I found 21/2 gallons today at Target. LOL. I guess I am an underachieiver. I will look for the 12 gallon ones.

 

[Leota]

I can't picture a 12 gallon ziploc? I'll have to look for those - Great idea for Kali - I was going to grab a pack of 2.5 gallons & bring 2 of those....

 

[SkipperBubba]

Leota... I was only able to find them on Ebay... got two four packs, figured that that was 8 Disney trips Credit actually goes to DW's BIL (Disnutty) who sprung one on us two years ago, along with throwaway ponchos. If you are just safeguarding small items (i.e. no geek vest) the 2 gallon size should be more than enough.

Update on geek vests... DW and I were at Wal-Mart the other night and they have two styles, one seems to be primarily a mesh style, which would probably be better for warmer times. Was going for around $25. Located in the sporting goods department.

 

[daisylove]

I just got a fanny/hip whatever pack fromKMArt that is insulated like a cooler. Anyone ever used one of these?

 

[MNmom]

We always take our Camelback. It has a 1.5L bladder that we fill with ice, water and some Crystal Light. Then there is a hose that you suck the water out of. I clip the nozzle to the shoulder strap so I can always have a drink. This can last almost the whole day and stays pretty cold. Last time I took the bladder out of the backpack and just put it in my "over the shoulder, nylon purse/bag" It was great to just take a few sips while waiting in line or walking in the heat.

 

[Lisa-K]

Newbie to WDW here.....can you take your backpacks onto all the rides/attractions with you?

 

[daisylove]

Sure you could. Some of the crazier rides just mean you hold on to it better. Leg through the straps or whatever. We usually have a bag of kid/baby stuff that we leave with the stroller and carry ina small one or hip pack with $$, camera etc.

 

[Lisa-K]

Thanks!

 

[SkipperBubba]

Useful information

Bump!

 

[kareneast]

I carry a small camera bag. In it I put my small digital camera, inhaler, tylenol/advil, a couple of bandaids, ziploc bag. Attached to the outside of the bag, I clip on a neoprene glasses holder for my sunglasses, a neoprene water bottle holder, & a little holder for Purex Hand Santizer (this comes in handy to not have to dig the sanitizer out, just pop the top & squirt it out). Money, id, tickets, credit cards go in my pockets.

DH carries a bigger camera bag (he has an SLR type digital camera with a few lens). He also carries the disposable rain ponchos in the camera bag. He also has clip case for his sunglasses & water bottle.

When we go during winter months, I carry a backpack with the above, plus hooded sweatshirts, magic stretch gloves, & hot hands. (This is if we are going to be out all day into the night and it is supposed to get cold)