As a mom of two Disney-loving daughters, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) what truly makes or breaks a trip to Disneyland. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, packing the right gear can mean the difference between magical memories and toddler meltdowns.
Here are the 7 essential items I never go to Disneyland without—all mom-tested, daughter-approved, and easy to grab on Amazon!
🎒 1. Lightweight, Disney-Approved Stroller
Recommended: Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Travel Stroller
Even if your kids are 5+, trust me—you’ll want wheels. A lightweight, foldable stroller with basket saves tired legs and holds all your stuff (snacks, ponchos, shopping bags). Just make sure it meets Disneyland’s stroller size rules.
✅ Why It’s Essential:
- Folds quickly and compactly for shuttles and security
- Storage basket for park essentials
- Rest tired legs and recline for in-park naps or rest time
☀️ 2. Clip-On Stroller Fan
Recommended: KIDEE Portable Baby Stroller Fan
Southern California sun + long lines = cranky kids. This portable fan clips right onto the stroller and keeps my girls cool during parades or while waiting in line for Peter Pan (again).
✅ Bonus:
- Rechargeable
- Adjustable angles
- Also great for moms during fireworks!
💦 3. Reusable Water Bottles
Recommended: Bubba Flo Kids Water Bottle
Hydration is key—and buying bottled water adds up fast. These bottles are the perfect kids size, have a locking lid to prevent spills in your bag, and a spout cover. This is a must have at Disney to keep germy hands off the spout, or the random kid walking up and drinking out of my water bottle (yes, I have watched someone else’s kid take a drink from my straw cup in my stoller and had to immediately toss it!)
✅ Pro Tip:
Fill it with ice in the hotel before heading in! You can also ask for ice water cups at all the quick service and sit down restaurants and dump them in your water bottle.
🎧 4. Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids
Recommended: Zohan Kids Noise Cancelling Headphone
The fireworks are magical at Disneyland, but they are also very loud. These soft, lightweight earmuffs help little kids and those who are sensitive to sound enjoy the show without fear.
🎭 5. Disney-Themed Outfits
Recommended: Family Disney Squad Shirts
We learned to skip the heavy, scratchy costume dresses. They are difficult to get in and our of rides and get hot in the Southern California heat. We opt for custom Disney themed shirts, and love family shirts when going with a large group. We recommend picking a bright color that is easy to spot to keep the group together.
⛱️ 6. Packable Ponchos
Recommended: Kids Rain Ponchos
Ponchos are a must (for kids and adults) for water rides or inevitable Southern California rain. I keep a few in the stroller pocket and always end up using them. They much more practical for walking around in rain than using an umbrella and pushing a stroller. They’re also perfect for covering the stroller during rain while you’re on rides, and are cheaper than specific stroller rain covers. Either style of poncho works. Button up ponchos feel more like regular clothes while cheaper boxy ones cover more and are faster to put on in unexpected downpours.
🍎 7. Protein-packed Kid Favorite Snacks
Recommended: Nature Valley Protein Chewy Bars
Bringing your own snacks saves money and prevents hangry meltdowns. We pack fruit, protein granola bars, trail mix, and applesauce pouches and they have helped our girls through long lines. We also snack so that we can split meals so we can still get all the yummy Disney food, but save our wallet.
💡 Pro Mom Tips from Disneyland:
- Download the Disneyland app before arriving — mobile ordering, ride wait times and character locations are game-changers.
- Bring an external battery pack — phones die fast from photo ops and Genie+ use.
- Arrive early, stay late — rope drop the first two hours for the shortest wait times, rest and people watch in the early afternoon during high crowds, then enjoy night shows and short waits after the shows.
🛍️ Shop the List:
Everything linked here is from Amazon, mom-approved and theme park-tested!
(Insert your affiliate product carousel or button links here)
✨ Final Thoughts
Every Disneyland trip is different, but the right gear makes each one smoother. With two daughters under 10, I’ve learned to travel light, pack smart, and always bring a few surprises. Whether it’s their first ride on Dumbo or their tenth churro, being prepared lets you focus on the magic.
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