backpack or what ?

[SoonerKate]

I've said it before and I'm sure I'll say it again, but the single best thing I've ever used to carry junk in the parks is a timbuk2 messenger bag.

They come in a variety of sizes, you can pick your own colors, they are seriously waterproof (even after Pluto's Bilge Rat Barges at IOA!!), sturdy as all get out, and you can wear it on your side, across your chest or on your back -- there's even a strap that'll keep it on your back! Plus, you can get extra attachments for cell-phones or 2-way radios, which is always useful.

You can get the smallest size, which you can easily carry with you on any ride -- I've never had a problem on any of them, because the bag straps to you really securely. They're great at security because there's only one big pocket to open, but it definitely won't open unless you want it to.

Seriously -- these are the best. bags. ever. They are expensive when you buy them from Timbuk 2, but occasionally you can find closeout lots at a Bealls, TJ Maxx or a Wall's Discount store.

Seriously, y'all. I know you don't believe me. Best. Bag. Ever.

 

[diane1102]

thanks honeymo... that's what I plan to do. I have a medium size backpack. The kids will have their own little packs (aged 8&12). Not too heavy to carry, but I wanted to be sure it wouldn't limit us to be able to go on the rides!

 

[disneyatl]

In the past we've carried a backpack for our camera and camcorder, ponchos and such. Me and my DD also carried a fanny pack. Our next trip we are going to try the sling bag instead of a backpack. Planning on still taking the fanny pack too.

 

[dreaminofdisney]

I used to just use a fanny pack every time I went into the parks. Now I have a 2 1/2 year old DD so after reading on the boards I decided on trying a sling backpack for our next trip. I will have the stroller for the non valueables but I also didn't want a huge backback to wear all the time. I found a med. sized sling called "soho" by eagle creek at REI. It was a bit pricey ($60)!! But it will be the perfect size. The great thing about it is I can wear it on my back and then just swing it around and wear it on my front, I will be able to get things in and out without having to take it off, put it down, find what I want, pick it up, put it back on my back... you get the picture. I can wear it on my front, get in and out of it with ease and still push the stroller (or hold her hand) without stopping!! At least thats the plan.

 

[Mrs. Snowgod]

Here is another vote for shorts or pants with cargo pockets! I have 2 pairs of Land's End Swim shorts and they have a large cargo pocket on each side, along with a smaller velcro patch pocket and regular slash pockets at the hip. They also have a nylon belt that clips in front, so you can thread a small camera on it. I wear a lanyard with my pins and a plastic passholder sleeve, and so my pockets hold sunscreen, lip balm, extra money, a poncho if necessary, and whatever else I need.

DH and I have developed a practice of grabbing 2 bottles of water each upon leaving our room in the morning. The first we drink as we walk toward and wait for the bus. It's finished by the time we get to the park. The second we drink as quickly as we can, so we don't have to carry it around.

Water only hydrates you if you have already consumed it, and so this way we don't have to carry bottles around for long.

Not having a fanny pack or back pack really eases your passage through security, and you have nothing to misplace later on.

 

[mamarobin24]

We carry two different things:
1. I carry the smallest purse I could find that carries my inhaler, all our AP's/roomkeys, and a credit card. My kids call it my Disney bag. I've had it for 5 years.

2. My Other Half carries a hydration backpack by Nalgene which includes all the stuff you need (sunscreen, ponchos, snacks/lunch) and a water system that holds 2 liters of water you access with a tube. Now this works for us because the OH gets seriously motion-sick and doesn't do any rides worse than Peter Pan. There's usually a book in there too, because the rest of us are Serious Ride Fanatics.

I had never thought to bring my Mountainsmith Daypack to the parks. I think that would be a marvelous idea too!!!

And Mrs. SnowGod: we're going at the same time. . . .