Are you looking for the best backpack for Disney World or any of your upcoming Disney vacations? If you have a trip to the most magical place on earth in the works, you may be thinking about everything you’ll need to make it the vacation of a lifetime. One thing is for sure: you need the right clothing and accessories for your magical park days at Walt Disney World!
If you are a regular Disney fan like myself, you know you need a day bag packed with your Disney park bag essentials. Backpacks for Disney World is a popular topic among those thinking about their Disney vacation because you are far from your hotel and need to bring a versatile bag with a lot of items to be out all day.
Things like water bottles, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, Disney snacks, a first-aid kit, and anything else you need to make the most out of your family vacation are necessary for a happy park day. And if your backpack has a little extra Disney flair to emphasize your Disney side, even better!
There are a ton of Disney backpack options out there. But as a Disney expert who is a Disney Vacation Club Member, has been to multiple Disney Destinations, and as someone who has been to the Disney parks probably close to 100 times (yes, that many), I have some ideas. This is why I decided to come up with this list of the best backpacks for Disney World!
This Best Disney Backpacks post contains affiliate links which means I receive a commission at no cost to you should you make a purchase using this link. See my disclosures.
Why Put Thought Into Your Backpack For Disney World
You may be thinking, “Why should I put so much thought into the best backpacks for Disney World?” Good question and I’m so glad you asked!
Any Disney regular knows that a trip to Disney World means a lot of walking – A LOT. If you’re carrying around a heavy bag on one shoulder with your park essentials all day, you won’t be able to enjoy yourself. It’s that simple. That’s where the best backpack for Disney comes in handy.
There are so many styles, colors, and aesthetics to choose from. No more carrying around your kid’s backpack in the hopes they will fit all of your stuff.
Now as a Disney mom, I have to be ready to carry around all of my kids’ belongings too. I know all of my fellow Disney mom adventurers know what I’m talking about. That means I need a bag that is big enough to fit everything we could need for a day out at Disney — and one that’s easy on my shoulder and back.
Also, if you are trying to save costs at Disney World, you may want a bag to bring in food or snacks. And in this case, you may want a backpack for Disney World that has a space for cool packs or ice packs to keep your food cold.
What Kind of Bag Should You Bring to Disney World?
You may have noticed several mentions about making sure you’re comfortable on your big trip. I can’t say it enough! You’re going to be on your feet for most of the day, so you have to dress the part. That means breathable fabrics, comfortable walking shoes, and of course, a backpack or Disney park bag that’s easy on the back and shoulders for all of your must-haves.
There’s also something so satisfying about fitting everything my family and I might need into one convenient Disney backpack. And, of course, there’s always a need to store some Disney World souvenirs.
Water resistant is also important. The best Disney backpacks are durable and ready for the splashes of water rides or, in the case of Disney World, the inevitable afternoon rain (especially in the warmer months in Florida.)
Even if you’re going to Disney without children, it’s important to carry a bag that’s large enough for extra layers, a water bottle, your wallet, some snacks, and anything else that will make your trip even more magical. We also like to bring our pins for pin-trading, autograph books, and pens, and of course, a Disney poncho for keeping dry on water rides and the Florida rain.
Things to Look for in a Theme Park Rucksack
Whenever I know I need to make an important purchase, I always do my homework first. I like to look at various styles, colors, and prices to get a better idea of what’s out there. It helps me stay on budget, and I’m almost always super happy with what I end up with.
And while style and colors are both very important, your rucksack needs to do a lot more for you. You’ll want your Disney World backpack to be something that:
- Keeps your belongings secure and safe.
- Has comfortable straps or padded straps.
- Fits the Disney size guidelines but is also a spacious backpack.
- Is lightweight.
- Can fit everything you need.
- Is water resistant with a zipper pocket for valuables and has easy access to your water bottle.
If you plan on carrying around water or Disney snacks, you’ll also want something that can keep things cold and is waterproof in case of any accidents and to protect you from water rides and the inevitable rain. When visiting Disney World with a baby or toddler, you may need a diaper bag backpack (and remember the Baby Care Centers at Disney World.)
Pro Tip: Best Backpacks For Disney World
Now, some people ask about using a diaper bag, a sling bag, a sling backpack, or a mesh bag. Here are my thoughts. If you are going to need a diaper bag, I recommend a diaper backpack or a lightweight backpack with a large main compartment for diapers, changes of clothes, formula or bottles, snacks, water bottles, and all you will need. But if you are coming with a diaper bag, you likely have a travel stroller and can also store items there.
Sling backpacks or sling bags can certainly work. And I sometimes use a crossbody bag, and my daughter loves her mini backpack (Disney-themed, of course) for her stylish backpack. But Essentially, for your Disney World vacation, you want a bag that’s comfortable to carry, and that actually fits everything you’ll need throughout the day helps to make your Disney World backpack the best one for you.
And I say ensure it is a water-resistant or waterproof backpack, has an adjustable strap, a zippered pocket or front pocket for valuables, a spacious main compartment, and room for your water bottle no matter what you choose.
The Best Backpacks for Disney World
There are so many options when it comes to finding the Disney parks backpack that works for you. All of the options below are affordable, functional, and stylish! And whether you are headed to Disney World or Disneyland, these are the best backpacks for Disney Destinations and any theme park vacation.
Zomake Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack
This award-winning lightweight day pack is one of the best backpacks for Disney World. Because it is a lightweight backpack, it’s a great place to start to fill it up with your Disney park day essentials.
It’s also portable, so it will fit easily, fold down and fit into a suitcase for packing. It has multiple pockets, including exterior pockets, for quick access to smaller items and valuables. This best backpack for Disney World has padded mesh straps (padded shoulder straps make it more comfortable), adjustable straps, and is water resistant.
My favorite part is the best pockets for your water bottle so you can easily stay hydrated when visiting Walt Disney World. There are actually two mesh pockets, so you can carry a second water bottle or your favorite snack at Disney World in the other one.
It is smaller than a hiking day pack, so it is kind of a mini backpack, but the main compartment comes with ample storage space. Overall this is one of my top picks as the best backpack for Disney World.
Check Out The Zomake Ultra Lightweight Backpack HereHimawari Travel Backpack
If you know you’ll be toting around a lot of stuff, this pack is a great choice. The Himawari travel backpack is waterproof, spacious, and has tons of pockets and adjustable straps. And it even comes with a built-in USB charging port. Say what?! Yup, you read that right. No more worrying about your phone (or the precious iPad) dying while you’re out and about.
Now, if you are traveling to Disney World with preteens or teens, you know all about the need for a portable charger. In fact, just using your My Disney Experience app all day for Disney World this year may run out your battery. So, I love that it has that USB charging port, which is a game changer in the best backpacks for Disney World. Plus, being water resistant and has room for a water bottle? Count me in!
It comes in a whopping 40 different color combinations and patterns. There’s truly something for every taste!
Check out the Himawari Travel Backpack HereVenture Pal Lightweight Packable Travel Backpack
If you want a Disney backpack that you can fold up and pack in a suitcase, try the Venture Pal Lightweight backpack! It weighs just one pound and can be folded up and then stored in a convenient carrying case that’s only about 6×8 inches in size.
Another reason why this is one of the best backpacks for Disney is the practical wet pocket inside. Perfect for storing wet clothing or a swimsuit. I mean, we have all gotten drenched on one of the water rides or caught in one of those Florida rain storms, so this water-resistant pocket is ideal.
Comfortable shoulder straps add to this wonderful backpack. And it’s also available in multiple colors — 11 to be exact.
Check Out the Venture Pal Lightweight Backpack Here!Bioworld Disney Mickey Mouse Peek-a-Boo Backpack
What better way to celebrate a day at Disney than to purchase a totally Disney-themed backpack before you go? While this one is a bit more expensive than the other options on my list ($54.99 at the time of writing), it’s so cute that I couldn’t resist.
It’s a little less practical than some of the other backpacks on this list as well, but it is just so fun. This one is a wonderful option if you don’t plan on carrying much and you want to look the part.
Though that said, it does have decent storage space, and behind the strap, a pocket is hidden where you can slide in some of your valuables. Make sure to take a photo op with Mickey Mouse!
Check Out The Bioworld Disney Mickey Mouse Peek-a-Boo Backpack Here!VASCHY Classic Lightweight Backpack
Lightweight yet durable, this classic lightweight backpack from VASCHY features a streamlined design and comfortable carrying straps. Available in 23 color combinations and striking patterns, it holds up to 20L worth of stuff.
It’s water resistant, so feel free to bring it along on any of the Disney water rides. There is also a water bottle pocket and a large front pocket, and it’s even foldable if you want to stow it away in your luggage. The classic design will last a lifetime!
Check Out The Vaschy Classic Lightweight Backpack Here!OutdoorMaster Sling Bag
Now, I know I keep talking about the importance of carrying a backpack with two shoulder straps, but the sling backpack design of this bag is specially designed to feel good on the back. The single shoulder strap is almost like one you would find on a padded laptop sleeve but is more comfortable.
Because it’s a crossbody backpack, you can also switch it from your right shoulder to your left shoulder if you start to feel sore. Another reason why I love this one by OutdoorMaster is because of the anti-theft pocket. This zippered pocket is helpful for storing valuables, something you DO have to consider on your Disney trip.
It also comes in 11 different colors. And it also features a breathable section of fabric along the back — perfect for those hot days on your Disney trip!
Check out OutdoorMaster Sling Bag Here!Loungefly x Mickey Suit Mini Saffiano Faux Leather Backpack
I am going to be very honest. These adorable backpacks are not the most practical for Disney World. But when it comes to Disney, sometimes fashion must come before function, especially when it comes to showing your Disneyside.
I LOVE Loungefly products so much, and we own several iterations of their adorable Disney mini backpacks. I just bought the Disney 100th celebration one myself.
And I also love the matching wallets. They also sell Disney-themed crossbody bags as well!
But, for a mini backpack, it actually has ample storage space and adjustable shoulder straps. You can definitely fit a water bottle, sunscreen, a poncho, snacks, and a variety of other things is this adorable small backpack. It is faux leather, it is fairly water resistant for splashes, but I wouldn’t get it soaked.
Overall, it’s an adorable backpack with long shoulder straps to show off your love of Disney. And it is a great one for younger kids to older kids if you are visiting Disney World on a multigenerational trip.
Check out the Loungefly Mini Backpacks Here!Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Backpack is Best for Disney? What Type Of Backpacks Are Allowed at Disney World?
If you are wondering what size backpack to take to Disney, I say it depends. When traveling with several young children and planning to be at the park all day, you should use a large backpack.
If you have teenagers or older kids that can carry their own stuff comfortably, a smaller bag would work. As a note, Disney has size limits for bags: they must be smaller than 24 inches long x 15 inches wide x 18 inches high.
What Kind of Bag is Best for Disney World? Is It A Good Idea To Bring A Backpack To Disney World?
Yes, you definitely need a day bag during your Disney trip. Some people like a fanny pack, but clearly, in this article, I think it is a good idea to bring a backpack to Disney World!
It will keep your belongings safe, and you can easily carry a lot of things. The shoulder straps help make it more comfortable, especially as you will be doing a lot of walking. While a fanny pack can store smaller items, it typically isn’t helpful for all of the park essentials you need in a day.
If you visit the park with a stroller, you can hang a backpack on it for easy access, and some models even feature a USB charging port to keep all of your devices fully charged throughout the day.
Should I Bring A Purse Or Backpack To Disney World?
You can do either or both. I bring a purse, and we also have one of us with a backpack to Disney World. Generally, at least one person probably needs a backpack to carry all of your essential park day items. But if you have a large enough purse or crossbody bag, it may be big enough for your needs.
Can You Ride Disney Rides With a Backpack? Can I Take My Backpack On Rides At Disney World?
You can! You’re allowed to take any type of bag that is within the Disney Guidelines (remember, it must be smaller than 24 inches long x 15 inches wide x 18 inches high) on any of the rides or attractions in the park.
People often ask what to do with a backpack while on rides at Disney, and for the most part, they can come on the ride with you with some requirements. You will need to take off the shoulder straps and put them in the required storage area.
Some of the newer rides, like TRON Lightcycle / Run, will require you to store your backpack in a locker. One of the big differences between Disney World vs Universal theme parks is that most rides don’t require the use of a locker like they do at Universal.
If you have a larger backpack, you’ll have to stow it at your feet. The larger rides typically provide you with a small mesh pouch to store smaller items if you don’t want to put them in your backpack. But your shoulder straps will have to be removed no matter what for safety.
Final Thoughts on the Best Backpack for Disney World
Backpacks are by far the best option for a day at Disney, and there are several different options to choose from! A quality rucksack will keep your belongings secure, is comfortable to carry, and will have some extras to make your day all the more enjoyable.
Now that you’ve discovered the best backpacks for Disney, which one will you choose? I hope you found this list helpful — make sure to let me know in the comments below!
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