Check the Transportation Security Administration's luggage guidelines to determine which items to pack in checked bags. Items such as aerosols, liquids greater than 3 oz. and sharp objects such as pocket knives are not allowed in aircraft cabins. The 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids requires passengers to carry only liquids that are "3.4 ounce (100 ml) bottle or less (by volume) (in a) 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin." Many airlines have luggage fees; therefore, packing light will keep the cost of travel down.
Make a packing list. Separate the list into sections for clothing, toiletries and electronics. The list should include no more than enough clothes for five days of travel because laundry facilities are readily accessible. A sample list includes these items, but can be modified depending on season, length of visit and the ages of those traveling.
-camera
-comfortable walking shoes
-sandals
-T-shirts
-shorts
-sweater or sweatshirt
-pants
-compact umbrella
-sunscreen
-hat
-sunglasses
-swimsuit
-theme park tickets
-autograph book and large pen for meeting Disney characters
Determine how many warm weather items (T-shirts) compared to sweatshirts to pack by checking the weather forecast for Walt Disney World (or for Orlando). The Disney parks are located in Central Florida, which can get quite hot in the summer months but are still mild in the winter months. The National Weather Service Forecast Office states that maximum temperatures in the summer months can be above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pack a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses to protect from an unwanted sunburn during a visit to the theme parks. A compact umbrella will keep you dry during sudden showers.
Pack a bathing suit and sandals for days spent around the pool at the resort, or at one of Disney's water parks. There are also a couple water rides in the parks (Kali River Rapids at Disney's Animal Kingdom) where a bathing suit under clothes will be welcome.
Pack items that will be needed most (such as pajamas or a camera) so that they are easily accessible on arrival. It can be a pain to have to dig through layers of items when you want to go to bed if arriving late. It is a good idea to have a camera handy for any photos while traveling. Keep important documents, such as identification and Disney tickets, on your person while flying.
Pack extra batteries, or a charger for any electronic devices. Take extra film for cameras. These items are available in the parks if you run out of film just before the parade, but bringing a few extra will cut down on costs.
