Planning a Disney trip is so exciting… but it’s also really easy to waste money 😅
Before you shop, let me show you exactly what not to buy for Disney so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.
On my first trip, I bought things I thought I needed… and ended up not using them (or replacing them in the park).
👉 Here’s exactly what not to buy for Disney — and what to get instead.
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What NOT to Buy for Disney (Avoid These Mistakes)
These are the most common mistakes moms make when packing for Disney.
Avoid these, and your trip will be SO much easier.
❌ 1. A Big, Heavy Backpack
One of the biggest mistakes is bringing a large backpack.
It seems like a good idea… but it gets heavy FAST.
By the middle of the day:
- Your shoulders hurt
- Your back gets sweaty
- You can’t find anything quickly
✔️ What to get instead:
👉 Lightweight crossbody bag (water-resistant)
Look for:
- Adjustable strap
- Multiple zipper pockets
- Anti-theft design
💡 A smaller bag is easier for rides, walking, and long lines.
Shop my picks here:
- This mini backpack holds the essentials, it’s Daisy colors and is perfect for park days.
- Stitch is my favorite and this bag is perfect for your items in the park.
- If you want color options this slingback bag is perfect.
❌ 2. Cheap Sunglasses
Another mistake is buying cheap sunglasses.
They break easily… and then you’re stuck buying expensive ones at Disney.
✔️ What to get instead:
👉 Polarized sunglasses with UV400 protection
Look for:
- Lightweight frame
- Non-slip nose pads
- Scratch-resistant lenses
💡 You’ll wear these all day — make sure they last.
Shop my picks here:
❌ 3. Disposable Ponchos
A lot of people bring thin, disposable ponchos.
This is a BIG mistake.
They rip quickly and don’t protect you well.
✔️ What to get instead:
👉 Reusable rain poncho with hood
Look for:
- Thick material
- Enough room to cover your bag
- Easy to fold and pack
💡 Florida rain comes fast — be ready.
“Shop my picks here:”
- This poncho is totally Minnie themed! It has pockets and it fits perfecly in Disney World!
- This poncho will cover you and your bag, and it comes in so many colors.
- If you need more than one and you don’t care about color, this pack will do the trick,
❌ 4. No Cooling Items
Not bringing cooling items is one of the worst mistakes.
Florida heat is HOT and humid.
✔️ What to get instead:
👉 Rechargeable neck fan
- Hands-free
- Strong airflow
- Long battery life
👉 Cooling towel
- Stays cold
- Easy to reuse
👉 Mini handheld fan
- Small but powerful
- Great for long lines
💡 These will keep you comfortable all day.
“Shop my picks here:”
- This handheld fan comes in great colors and it BLOWS! The charge lasts for a long time and has 5 gears
- Give me all the fans, this neckfan is light weight, cools you down and comes in some great colors as well. Can you tell I like to my gear to match and be fun.
- Cooling towels are a life saver and you can never have too many
- If you are going with a stroller, you need a stroller fan! This one works so good and will keep your kiddo cool.
❌ 5. The Wrong Shoes
Wearing the wrong shoes can ruin your trip.
You will walk A LOT.
Don’t wait until you get to Disney to break your shoes in, even if you owned another pair, ALWAYS break them in BEFORE your trip, frust me it is no fun having bleeding blisters and walking 10 miles a day.
✔️ What to get instead:
👉 Cushioned walking sneakers
Look for:
- Breathable material
- Soft cushioning
- Lightweight feel
💡 Comfort matters more than style here.
“Shop my picks here:”
- These shoes are my favorite color, PINK! I wore these all day in the parks and they are so supportive!
- New Balance shoes have NEVER steered me wrong, they are so perfect for long park days.
- These shoes are easy to wear, easy to pack and come in good colors, including pink!
❌ 6. Overpriced Disney Outfits
It’s easy to spend too much on outfits at the park.
But you’ll probably only wear them once.
✔️ What to get instead:
👉 Affordable, comfy outfit sets
Ideas:
- Biker shorts + oversized tee
- Lightweight dress
- Matching lounge set
💡 Cute, comfy, and you can wear them again.
“Shop my picks here:”
- You can never go wrong with a pair of biker shorts and an oversized shirt!
- I LOVE wearing this tennis dress to the park. I love to pair it with a cute Disney hat.
- This super cute set is comfortable, lightweight AND HAS POCKETS! Pair it with some Minnie Ears and you are all set!
What to Pack Instead (Quick List)
To make your trip easier, here’s what you actually need:
- Lightweight crossbody bag
- Polarized sunglasses
- Reusable rain poncho
- Neck fan + cooling towel
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Breathable outfits
👉 These simple swaps will make a BIG difference.
Final Thoughts: What NOT to Buy for Disney
Now you know exactly what not to buy for Disney.
The truth is — you don’t need a lot of stuff.
But the RIGHT items will change your whole trip:
👉 Less stress
👉 More comfort
👉 More fun
Avoid these mistakes, pack smart, and enjoy your Disney trip so much more.