If you're anything like me, you still dream of living in Cinderella's castle at 20 years old. I spent my Freshman white trash spring break in Disney World, and I'm going again this week. I'd like to call myself an expert of sorts, so here are 10 things that you must bring with you. You're welcome.
1. Fanny Pack
I don't care how uncool you think you're going to look with a fanny pack because you'll learn really quick that a backpack or a purse is not the move when you're walking around for hours in the Florida heat. Convenience trumps trendy when it comes to a day at the park.
2. Autograph Book
I know what you're thinking: Me? A 20-year-old? Carrying an autograph book through Disney? Are you trying to tell me you're above fighting the crowd of little kids to meet Mickey Mouse and don't care if you have something to show for it?
3. Lanyard and Pins
Now, pins are a little bit more of a pricey thing to experience at Disney, but they're so fun to collect and trade. All you have to do to start is buy a lanyard and pin and you can trade with the employees at shops in the park or even strangers! I have no shame in admitting that I probably spent over $100 on pins last trip.
4. Portable Charger
If you don't bring a portable charger to Disney World be fully prepared for your phone to die. You may not realize that between your brightness in the Florida sun and the snap stories you're posting your battery is donezo.
5. Sunscreen
Don't be that person who tries to tell everybody that you never burn. You will have burn lines in the shape of that crazy sports bra you're wearing and you will have regrets. Besides, Princesses never burn.
6. Water, Water, Water!
You're allowed to bring one "unopened" bottle into the park but I've always brought in a reusable bottle and been fine. It's so important to keep hydrated when you're walking around all day and standing in line in the heat. Don't let dehydration ruin your fun!
7. MagicBands
It may seem like MagicBands are just another gimmick to squeeze more money out of you, but they are actually the most convenient things to use at Disney. They're a wristband that electronically holds your ticket and FastPass reservations so you don't have to wait in lines at the park entrances or carry around paper tickets - you just scan your MagicBand and you're off!
8. Snacks*
Food is probably the most expensive part of going to the parks. You're allowed to carry food inside though, so shove as many granola bars in your fanny packs and you can so you don't have to pay $10 for a slice of pizza.
*Dole Whip, however, is a perfectly acceptable way to spend your money.
9. Handheld Fan
You probably used to carry these around at camp when you were a kid, but these are awesome when you're standing between sweaty people in line - especially the ones that spray water, too.
10. Patience
Disney World requires a ton of patience. You're going to be spending hours in lines, there's no doubt about that, but if you keep up the good spirits and have some patience time will go by like bippity boppity boo!
