A Disney Travel Agent Told Me the 8 Things You Should Never Bring on the Park’s Cruises — and What to Pack Instead

**Essential Packing Tips for Your Disney Cruise: What to Bring and What to Leave Behind**

Planning a Disney cruise can be an exciting yet daunting experience, particularly when it comes to packing. With so many tempting items that might seem essential, knowing what to include and what to omit can significantly enhance your trip. Travel agent Amanda Reed from White Glove Travel Company, who has a wealth of experience in arranging Disney vacations, shares her expert insights on creating the perfect packing list for a magical cruise experience.

Reed suggests adopting a minimalistic approach to what you take on board. “I always recommend packing less than you think you need,” she advises. This is especially relevant for cruise travel, where many necessities are readily available. A streamlined packing strategy not only lightens your load but allows for more space to store any souvenirs picked up along the way.

One of Reed’s standout recommendations is the Anrabess 2-piece matching lounge set, available for £20 on Amazon. This soft, stretchy ensemble is perfect for relaxing on the ship or making late-night snack runs without compromising on comfort or style. Reed emphasises that thinking strategically about daily activities can help to determine your clothing requirements for the trip.

While there are must-have items for your cruise, there are also several items that should never make it onto the packing list. Reed warns against bringing power strips, over-the-door shoe hangers, decorative twinkle lights, and even drones. She highlights that certain amenities, like bottle warmers, clothing steamers, and inflatable pool toys, are either limited or provided by the cruise line, making them unnecessary to bring along.

To ensure you’re always connected and ready to capture memories, Reed suggests waterproof phone pouches, especially for adventurous excursions on and near the water. Priced at just £10, these pouches are touch-friendly and offer protection against dust, snow, and water, making them a practical addition to your beach essentials.

Footwear plays a critical role in keeping both comfort and safety in check during your sea adventures. Reed advocates for the Teva Original Universal Slim Lea Sandals, which she found invaluable during visits to Disney’s Castaway Cay. Not only do these sandals provide grip on slippery surfaces, but they are also waterproof, ensuring comfort during assorted activities on and off the ship.

Sun safety is paramount when enjoying a cruise in sunny locales. Reed consistently includes Neutrogena Sun Rescue After-Sun Lotion on her packing checklist to soothe inevitable sunburns. While the cruise may offer toiletries for purchase, Reed cautions that those items can be pricey, making it more cost-effective to bring your own.

The heat of the sun can sometimes be unbearable, particularly during the summer months. Reed highlights the versatility of a Tunise Portable Handheld Fan, which can quickly offer relief. Its compact design makes it easy to slip into bags for day trips and even includes a convenient strap to wear around the neck for hands-free comfort.

For water activities, having more than one swimsuit is crucial. Reed points out that: “Nobody likes putting on a wet swimsuit.” She recommends the Holipick Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuit, which provides both fashion and function, featuring slight compression and elegant ruching ideal for various water-based activities.

Parents with young children will appreciate having activities on hand to keep their little ones entertained. Reed suggests a Lovevook Mini Daily Backpack designed for easy transport of portable games and activities. Items like Melissa and Doug Water Wow books and Crayola Color Wonder markers are excellent choices for keeping kids occupied while dining or waiting for live shows.

Staying hydrated on a cruise is essential, and Reed emphasises the benefits of bringing a reusable water bottle, such as the Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel variant. Priced at £35, it not only keeps drinks cold but also helps reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles during your trip.

Lastly, the importance of organisation within cruise cabins shouldn’t be overlooked. Reed recommends Lovimag Magnetic Hooks, which attach easily to cabin walls to create additional hanging space for items like hats and room keys. This helps keep essentials within easy reach, ensuring a more enjoyable and stress-free cruise experience.

In conclusion, embarking on a Disney cruise requires thoughtful packing to maximise enjoyment. By following Reed’s expert packing list and recommendations, travellers can navigate the seas with ease and make the most of their magical moments. Be sure to keep these tips in mind as you prepare for a holiday full of fun and adventure on the open water.