I’m a heavy packer by nature, but over the years I’ve learned to pare down and bring only the necessities. No matter how hard I try, these 10 things are always packed in my bags when I travel to Walt Disney World.

1. Shiny pennies – one fun, cheap souvenir in Disney are pressed pennies! You can make these in  many shops, resorts, and parks throughout Disney. My kids love hunting for as many different machines as they can find! They even sell little souvenir books to keep them in. Collect your shiny pennies! They make the best ones!
2. Travel coffee creamer – I know it sounds silly, but if you like your coffee with flavored creamer, you likely won’t find it in Disney. I bring a box of travel creamers to have with my morning coffee in the resort room. Tip: learn from my mistakes…put them in a plastic container to avoid leaks!
3. Reusable water bottle – this is a must! Quick service restaurants will give you a cold glass of ice water for free. Ask for a few cups and fill up your bottles! Don’t spend your money on expensive bottled water at the park! Remember to fill them up at table service restaurants before you leave too!
4. Small backpack – while I LOVE my Disney Loungefly backpacks, I find that they aren’t all that practical and comfortable for a full park day. I gravitate to my Patagonia sling backpack when I’m at the park (I’m not paid to say this, I just really love it). It’s so convenient and so comfortable! Whatever bag you choose, make sure you’re ok with having to put it on the ground on rides.
5. Small first aid kit – make sure you have bandaids, alcohol wipes, and pain relievers on hand! I love the little  first aid kits that you can find in the travel section of a drugstore! They fit perfectly in any bag. I just make sure I have extra bandaids and pain relievers so I can refill as needed.
6. Portable phone charger – you need to use your phone more than ever in the parks. Don’t forget a battery pack!
7. Ziplock containers and bags– I always keep a small container in my bag for leftover treats at the park! If you want to bring goodies home from the confectionery, these are great to get your treats home in one piece! Ziplock bags are great for taking home soiled or wet clothing/swimsuits. I bring a variety of sizes!
8. Extra duffle bag – it’s really hard to pass up Disney swag! Sometimes I even do a little Christmas shopping when I’m on my trips. Packing a light, foldable bag that you can easily and comfortably carry on the plane can be so helpful!
9. Portable luggage scale – if you’re a heavy packer (or a big Disney shopper), this is a great little gadget to have. Most airlines cap weight at 40 or 50lbs. I weigh my bags before I leave for the airport and I make sure to bring the scale with me so I can weigh them before I come home.
10. Poo-pouri…because hotel rooms are small…