Are you planning a visit to Universal and not sure what to pack for the parks? In this post I am sharing my Universal Orlando packing list that is tried and true for over hundreds of park visits. The most important thing is to keep it simple! Let’s check out the tips for your theme park packing list.
I am all about NOT over packing when you visit a theme park. No one wants to carry a bunch of stuff around, especially if you are planning a summer trip to Universal.
Pack the essentials that you will need and then go about your day. There is not much difference in what you will need for Universal Studios, and what you will need for Islands of Adventure or Epic Universe. I basically pack the same bag with a few differences that I will share later in this post.
There are five of us traveling so I have to be smart about what I pack and how much stuff we want to be carrying around for the day. After many visits to the parks we have perfected it! So lets get into your easy Universal Orlando packing list.
Insider Tip: Purchase tickets before you arrive to get the best deal and save time!
Universal Orlando Packing List
There are two things you need to “pack” that are not really part of the list but still important. They are purchasing tickets before you arrive and downloading the Universal App on your phone.
Having these two things ready to go before you arrive at security and the ticket gate will save you so much time and make the start of your park visit start off smooth.
The next few things are what I always pack in my bag for our trips to Universal.
Portable Charger
You will need your cell phone for a lot of things when visiting. Tickets can be stored on the app, making virtual queue reservations, mobile ordering for meals, as well as checking wait times. Plus taking photos and video-your phone will need a mid-day charge.
Having a portable charger will be a huge help when visiting the parks. We recently started using this portable charger for its sleek design and multiple charging ports.
Reusable Water Bottle
I am split on whether or not a reusable water bottle is a must when visiting the parks. We have always brought one and have also had issues with it leaking when put into a locker.
The pros of having a water bottle is not having to ask for cups and you are more likely to stay hydrated during the day. There are water filling stations and Coca-Cola freestyle machines with water that guests can use making it really easy to refill.
The cons is they can be heavy and/or leak in the lockers. We did recently try these collapsible water bottles which are under $10.00 and may be a perfect way to carry your own without the bulk.
Decide what is best for you and your group. You can also ask for cups of water at most counter service restaurants. During the summer months bringing our own is a must.
Snacks
Guests are allowed to bring small snacks into the park. I like to include granola bars and pretzels with trail mix in our bag to keep us going during the day.
We often skip breakfast and eat a granola bar as we wait for the parks to open. Snacks are even more important when you have small children.
Essentials for Self-Care
The basics that you need for a park visit are sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen. You may also need to bring any daily medications that you need.
I will bring Tylenol or Motrin for headaches. If you are spending long days at the park you may need it!
Sometimes the rides can cause motion sickness for some people. Motion sickness medicine is a good idea for those prone to it.
My typical theme park bag has ibuprofen (adults & children), sunscreen, lip balm, deodorant, mega babe thigh rescue, and hats/sunglasses for the family. I use a small toiletry bag to keep it all organized in my backpack. You can find all my products on my amazon theme park store.
You may also want to bring a first aid kit, change of clothes if traveling with young children, and any other personal items you may require.
Rain Ponchos
The summer months are the rainiest time of year but we have needed rain ponchos in the spring too.
Bring them even if you don’t think you will need them or wear them. We have used these rain ponchos on a few visits. They have held up and lasted us a couple trips. Just make sure you allow them to dry before you store them.
When it is a rainy day at the parks the crowds are usually small, having rain ponchos allows us to stay. Most rides are open when it rains. We have also used rain ponchos for riding the water rides at Universal when we don’t want to be soaked for the day.
Hand Sanitizer and Wipes
Theme parks have a lot of touch points. Having hand sanitizer and/or hand sanitizing wipes on hand makes it a lot easier to continue with our day. There are often spots at the exits of rides but having my own makes it easier and convenient.
That is really all you need! These few things to pack for a day at Universal will help your day run smoothly and enjoy an amazing day at the parks.
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Leah has been planning and writing about Universal trips since 2016. She loves finding the best places to eat and stay during her visits to the park. Leah enjoys the little details that make visiting the parks so immersive and special, and sharing that with her readers.
