HEADING TO A THEME PARK? HERE'S WHAT YOU SHOULD — AND SHOULDN'T — BRING, ACCORDING TO EXPERTS
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There's nothing quite as freeing as the experience of throwing your arms up in the air and screaming at the top of your lungs while riding a rollercoaster. If you're an adrenaline seeker, an amusement park visit likely ranks pretty high on your bucket list this spring or summer. But before you can channel your inner child and have some carefree fun in the sun, you'll first want to work on your amusement park packing list.
Not sure where to start? We asked Josh Nelson, who shares theme park tips and tricks on his popular YouTube channel ResortTV1, to break down everything you need to have the best visit possible. He's also sharing a few pointers to help you approach your amusement park trip like a pro.
We also spoke with Beth Smith, travel planner and team leader with Magical Vacation Planner. As an Earmarked Diamond Producer for Disney, as well as a Universal Diamond U Preferred Partner, Smith is ready and happy to guide families like mine [Hatem's] through the park planning process.
Benefits of amusement park trips | Expert packing tips | First-timer tips | Products to shop
Why should you consider an amusement park for your next trip?
When it comes time to decide on a family vacation, it's hard to satisfy everyone, but Nelson said amusement parks are a universally fun experience for your whole gang.
"A theme park vacation is a great way to have the whole family actually spend time together! Theme parks can be a great place for everyone to put their devices in their pockets and just enjoy the moment and each other," Nelson says. "In fact, Walt Disney always said that one of his main motivations for creating Disneyland was to have a place where parents and children could play and enjoy time together."
As with any vacation, there are some downsides to visiting an amusement park — long wait times for rides, for instance — but the fun factor definitely outweighs any obstacles.
"Even though the parks can be crowded, there are great ways to beat the crowds and still enjoy an incredible adventure together," he mentions.
Expert tips for packing for an amusement park trip
Don't leave home without...
Sure, you're ready for a fun-filled day of riding rollercoasters and chowing down on fried food, but that doesn't mean you can just show up unprepared. Packing a few key items can help you face whatever the day brings with ease, and Smith recommends starting with a packing list.
“Once you have a comprehensive list made, then you can start packing and checking items off of the list as you put them in your suitcase. Without a list, I will inevitably forget something essential. While many items are available for purchase in the parks and at the resorts, you will pay much more for the convenience of purchasing them onsite,” adds Smith.
These are some nonnegotiable items that our experts always bring with them when he heads to an amusement park:
- Umbrellas and rain ponchos: "Especially in Florida, it rains quite a bit in the summer, and getting soaked can put a damper on the day," says Nelson. Smith also notes: “It’s not uncommon to have a daily shower or thunderstorm, especially during the hotter months. A poncho is a lifesaver. It allows you to keep enjoying the parks when other unprepared guests are scrambling for shelter!"
- Sunscreen: Nelson says, "Getting a sunburn isn't anyone's idea of a good vacation!" Smith also suggests bringing sunscreen along and tells us, "While you will not be in the sun all day — so many of the attractions and queues are indoors — you WILL be in the hot sun at times. No one wants to get a sunburn."
- Comfortable shoes: Nelson explains, "Theme parks aren't the place to win a fashion show with your stylish footwear. Choose shoes for comfort. Bonus points for water-resistant shoes!"
- Cell phone battery packs: "Taking photos and videos all day will drain your device faster than normal," Nelson says. "Have a few spare batteries in the parks and charge them every night."
- A comfortable hat: "This will keep you cooler and may help stop sunburns," Nelson tells us.
- Plastic bags: “We started carrying plastic, resealable bags in various sizes in our backpacks,” says Smith. “We found that they came in handy so many times. Do you have one of the beautifully decorated caramel apples, but you can’t finish eating all of it in one sitting? Pop the remaining treat in one of those plastic bags to protect your hands and your backpack from the stickiness.
- A gift card for kids' spending: We started giving our daughter a gift card good for use in the parks and resorts,” shares Smith. “Since every attraction leaves you inside a souvenir shop at the end of the ride, it is a great way to alleviate the “Can I have this?” syndrome kids can get into pretty easily. “Do you have enough on your gift card to pay for it? If you buy this, your money will be gone, and we still have three days of vacation left.” It taught our daughter about opportunity cost and delayed gratification,” says Smith.
Surprising items you can't bring to a theme park
One of the first stops of your day will be a security checkpoint. Here, your bags and/or strollers will be searched to ensure the safety of all guests and you might be asked to walk through a metal detector.
To speed up the process, make sure to read the theme park's security guidelines online and familiarize yourself with any items that are prohibited before you depart. Nelson notes two items that get regularly confiscated you might be surprised about:
- Costume masks: "One thing that is surprising for some people that cannot be brought are costume masks. Guests are welcome to dress up like their favorite characters, but no character masks of any kind are allowed. Of course, protective face masks are welcome for anyone who needs to use them, but character masks (Halloween style) are not allowed," he explains.
- Selfie sticks: "These are not allowed (in some parks) for safety reasons, but smartphone stabilizers (gimbals) are allowed as long as they don’t extend," he says.
Advice for first-time travelers
If you've never been to an amusement park before, you're in for a real treat. But if you want to soak up all the magic strategically, Nelson has a few pointers to help you maximize your time.
Don't try to do everything: Amusement park veterans know that a massive checklist can only lead to major disappointment once you get stuck in those massive lines, and that's why Nelson recommends being realistic about what you want to accomplish during your trip. "Make a list of things you can't miss, and let each family member contribute. Then make a list of things that would be nice to do if time allows," he advises.
Smith also suggests that guests "don’t even try to conquer it all." She continues, "Do the things you can do in your allotted vacation time, and don’t push yourself so hard that you can’t enjoy your vacation!"
Schedule daily breaks: Vacations can be pretty fast-paced, so it's wise to schedule a few breaks here and there to replenish your energy. Nelson notes that this is especially critical if you're traveling with young children. "Take time to give them a break when they need it (especially in the middle of the day when it's hot). Those screaming children one often hears in the park are usually children who have passed their break time and are overtired. It's best to take breaks when needed and avoid the meltdowns," he explains.
Products to shop for amusement park travel
Bath & Body Works Tropical Vacay Pocketbac Hand Sanitizers
Bath & Body Works Tropical Vacay Pocketbac Hand Sanitizers
Bath & Body Works Tropical Vacay Pocketbac Hand Sanitizers $ at Bath & Body Works
It’s only natural to hold on tight when that rollercoaster is whipping around sharp corners, but you don’t know who else has touched — or sneezed on — that handle in the past few hours. Do yourself a favor and sanitize regularly to avoid any unwanted souvenirs (aka germs). We’re fans of this pocket-sized hand sanitizer that basically smells like summer in a bottle with its tropical scent. It kills 99.9% of germs and also has hydrating ingredients like vitamin E and aloe.
Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit
First Aid Kit
First Aid Kit $ at Target
You never know when you’re going to need a first aid kit, and when the moment strikes, you’re better off having one in your bag so you don’t have to go searching for the nearest first aid station. This one comes with 80 pieces, including bandages, pain reliever, antibiotic ointment, gauze pads, first aid tape, fever reducer, antiseptic towelettes and antiseptic.
Hagon PRO Disposable Rain Poncho
Disposable Rain Ponchos (Set of 5)
Disposable Rain Ponchos (Set of 5) $ at Amazon
Nobody wants pesky downpours raining on their parade, but you can't control Mother Nature, so it's best to come prepared with a few rain ponchos in case stray showers do make an appearance. This handy set comes with five ponchos for a mere $12. The set comes in five colors and boasts 8,300 verified five-star ratings.
Block Star Sheer Liquid Daily Sunscreen SPF 50
Liquid Daily Sunscreen
Prefer mineral sunscreens? This fast-absorbing liquid formula has a sheer, non-greasy consistency that's sweat- and water-resistant for 80 minutes. It offers SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection and a non-comedogenic formula that won't clog pores.
Sungait Ultra Lightweight Rectangular Polarized Sunglasses
Lightweight Polarized Sunglasses
Lightweight Polarized Sunglasses $ at Amazon
With over 33,000 five-star ratings under its belt, this Amazon bestseller comes well recommended. The lightweight, polarized frame blocks harmful UV rays and the unisex style comes in a variety of hues (and even some multipacks).
Handheld Mini Fan
Rechargeable Small Pocket Fan
Rechargeable Small Pocket Fan $ at Amazon
Not a fan of the heat? Schlepping around a theme park all day can really make you sweat, so it's smart to pack a mini portable fan in your bag to help cool you down from time to time. This bestseller has over 32,000 five-star ratings from Amazon customers and lasts up to 21 hours with one USB charge, according to the brand.
Universal Thread™ Tortoise Shell Print Square Sunglasses
Universal Thread™ Tortoise Shell Print Square Sunglasses
Universal Thread™ Tortoise Shell Print Square Sunglasses $ at Target
Sure, it's important to shield your peepers from the sun, but you don't necessarily want to pack your designer shades when you're frequenting a theme park. After all, hats and shades can occasionally fall off while you're on a rollercoaster and you'll be a lot less devastated if you lose a more affordable pair like these square sunnies.
Nordstrom Kids' Active Quarter Socks
Kids' Active Quarter Socks
Kids' Active Quarter Socks $ at Nordstrom
Rebecca Brown, a deals editor at Shop TODAY, says, "My daughter will only wear these socks to begin with because they don’t bunch at the toes." Brown continues, "I always throw an extra pair in a bag when we head to an amusement park because I know, no matter what, she’ll want to go on a water ride and end up with wet shoes and socks. There’s nothing worse than having the day ruined with blisters, so it’s great to have an extra pair on hand."
Frito-Lay Snacks Classic Mix Variety Pack
Snacks Classic Mix Variety Pack
Snacks Classic Mix Variety Pack $ at Walmart
Whether you’re traveling with kiddos or doing an adults-only trip, snacks are essential and they aren’t exactly cheap in theme parks. If you’re looking to save some dough, purchase a multipack of mini snacks ahead of time. We’ve got our eyes on this Frito-Lay variety pack that comes with a mix of Lay’s, Doritos, Doritos Cool Ranch, Cheetos, Ruffles and Fritos.
Repel Umbrella
The Original Portable Travel Umbrella for Rain
The Original Portable Travel Umbrella for Rain $ at Amazon
Not a fan of ponchos? Umbrellas get the job done too! This bestseller has over 46,000 verified five-star ratings from Amazon customers and it’s easy to see why. The portable travel style is compact, lightweight and wind-resistant, making it a great option to stow away in your backpack.
Vineyard Vines Classic Logo Baseball Hat
Classic Logo Baseball Hat
Classic Logo Baseball Hat $ at Vineyard Vines
You can't go wrong with a standard baseball hat, and this classic style comes in five colors to suit every personality: navy, yellow, light pink, mint green and white. It also has eyelets for ventilation and an adjustable strap to make sure you get the most comfortable fit possible.
Ruckas Accessory Pouch
Accessory Pouch
Accessory Pouch $ at Chrome Industries
Prefer to travel light? A compact crossbody bag fits all the essentials — like your phone, wallet, etc. — without weighing you down. This one comes in three colors, is made of recycled materials and has a removable shoulder strap.
Lands' End UPF Unisex Rapid Dry Quarter Zip Pullover
Unisex Rapid Dry Quarter Zip Pullover
Unisex Rapid Dry Quarter Zip Pullover $ at Lands' End
The temperature can quickly drop at night, so it's wise to pack a pullover in your bag to keep you warm. This one also works for cooler days since it's made of a sun-protective UPF 50 material. The unisex style is moisture-wicking and comes in three colors (red, black and blue).
Yeti Rambler Water Bottle
26 oz Water Bottle
When you’re walking around all day in the sun, hydration is key, but disposable water bottles don’t come cheap in an amusement park. A single bottle of water can run your daily budget dry quickly, so packing your own reusable water bottle is a good money-saving solution. Many parks now have water filling stations and you can always ask for a free cup of water when ordering your meals. We’re fans of this sturdy find that resists punctures and rust, all while keeping drinks ice cold all day long. It also has a leak-resistant cap!
Women's Kinetic Breakthru Day Lace Sneaker
Kinetic™ Breakthru Day Lace Sneaker
Kinetic™ Breakthru Day Lace Sneaker $ at Nordstrom Rack
This is not the time to break out those cute wedge sandals or flip-flops you've been dying to wear. Your feet will thank you later when you opt for a sturdy pair of sneakers instead! These ones from Sorel offer ample support with lightweight and responsive foam. The breathable style is made with eco-friendly materials and a removable footbed. The color selection is also pretty expansive!
Etta Shapeable Sun Catcher Hat UPF 50+
Shapeable Sun Catcher Hat UPF 50+
Shapeable Sun Catcher Hat UPF 50+ $ at Coolibar
If you’re craving an added level of protection, this protective hat offers UPF 50+ coverage from the sun. Available in three colors, the cute style has a convenient chin cord that keeps it locked in place when a gust of wind suddenly appears.
Goal Zero Venture 35 Power Bank
Phone Power Bank
Phone Power Bank $ at Goal Zero
There’s nothing worse than a dead phone battery when you’re out and about for the day. Plan ahead and charge up this power bank the night before so you can give your devices a boost of juice when they’re dying throughout the day. It can recharge up to three smartphones, meaning it should be enough for several adults.
Vera Bradley Featherweight Backpack
Featherweight Backpack
Featherweight Backpack $ at Vera Bradley
Hands-free is the way to be when you're trotting around a theme park having fun. This lightweight, water-repellent backpack was designed with plenty of pockets to help you store all your essentials and also comes with side pockets to hold your water bottles.
How we chose
Before choosing products for your theme park packing list, we talked to two experts (Josh Nelson of ResortTV1 and Beth Smith of Magical Vacation Planner) about what you should and shouldn't bring with you to an amusement park. We then scanned the internet for highly rated products inspired by their advice, and then we included a product recommendation from an editor at Shop TODAY.
Meet the experts
- Josh Nelson has a YouTube channel called ResortTV1, where he shares tips about theme parks in Florida. The channel currently has over 180,000 followers.
- Beth Smith works for Magical Vacation Planner, a company that helps build itineraries for getaways, cruises and theme parks, as a team leader and travel planner.
This article was originally published on TODAY.com
2023-06-22T17:39:34Z dg43tfdfdgfd