Planning a day at Universal Orlando usually means a lot of walking, Florida heat, and unpredictable weather. These are some of the things I recommend packing to make long park days easier.
Sections
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Locker Friendly Must-Haves
You Will Get Wet
Universal with Kids
Locker Friendly Must-Haves
Universal requires you to stash your stuff in free lockers at most thrill rides. But people get frustrated because they bring too much or their bags are too big - meaning they need to pay for a larger locker.
A small fan keeps air moving while you’re waiting, which helps kids and adults stay comfortable longer.
Handheld Bladeless Cooling Fan
Small bag at Universal is the move. Many of the bigger thrill rides require (free) lockers, and oversized backpacks slow you down (and cost you $). I recommend something compact that fits easily into the free lockers, zips securely, and doesn’t turn ...
Licensed 10.5" Mini Backpack
This is perfect when you want your hands free but still need constant hydration. It holds your tumbler and gives you small zip pockets for phone, cards, and sunscreen. It’s much easier than juggling a full backpack.
Stylish and Trendy Water Bottle crossbody holder
Phones drain faster when you’re in the parks. A portable phone charger helps keep your phone powered all day so you don’t miss reservations, ride photos, or low wait times.
Power bank Charger for iphone and Android with USB c 5000mAh Mini Battery Pack
I know it seems simple, but a cooling towel helps lower your body temperature so you’re a little bit more comfortable when you’re walking outside or standing in outdoor ride queues.
Frogg Toggs Cooling Towel, Reusable and Washable
Walking 20,000 steps or more is common during a day at Universal Orlando. An anti-chafe stick helps prevent irritation on long park days.
Body Glide® Original Anti Chafe Balm | No Chafing Stick | Prevent Arm, Chest, Butt, Thigh, Ball Chafing & Irritation | Trusted Skin Protection Since 1996 |1.28oz
Florida heat can drain your energy and leave you dehydrated. Electrolyte drink packets help keep you hydratated and prevent fatigue during long park days.
Universal does give you free ice water but many people also don’t like the taste of Florida w...
Bright Florida sun + water reflections make polarized lenses helpful.
Polarized Sports Sunglasses - Wrap Around Sun Glasses UV Protection
I always recommend packing a good sunscreen. I like Blue Lizard because it holds up better than others in the heat and humidity.
1.0 oz Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ - BLUE LIZARD AUSTRALIAN SUNSCREEN | Ulta Beauty
Summer days can be rough if you’re sweating all day. These wipes are individually wrapped, so they’re easy to throw in your park bag and use whenever you need them. They’re made for the whole body, so you can feel clean-ish without leaving the park o...
Fomin Full Body Deodorant Wipes, Variety, 15 CT
I always keep lip balm with SPF in my bags since it helps protect my lips from getting dry or sunburned while I’m spending hours outside.
Mineral Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
You Will Get Wet
Universal Orlando has several rides where getting soaked is part of the experience. And if you’re visiting Volcano Bay, you’ll definitely want a few extra things packed. These are some items that help make water rides, rain showers, and pool time a l...
A Harry Potter robe rain poncho is a fun item to bring to Universal Orlando, especially if you plan to spend time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Because most ponchos don’t take up much space, they’re easy to store in a park bag to take out ...
Universal Studios Harry Potter Hogwarts Crest Poncho
Universal has several rides where guests can get soaked. A waterproof phone pouch protects your phone, tickets, and credit cards from getting wet.
Bluescape Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch; Black & Clear
Volcano Bay walkways can get hot, and water shoes make moving between slides much more comfortable. Just keep in mind that you can’t wear them on all slides.
Speedo Adult Women's Pull On Water Shoes
Hotel towels work, but quick-dry towels are lighter and easier to carry around the park.
Nomadix Ultralight Quick Dry Towel
A wet/dry bag lets you separate wet clothes, swimsuits, or ponchos from the rest of your stuff. It’s super handy for carrying all of your wet bathing suits back to the hotel.
2 Pack Wet/Dry Bags with Two Zippered Pockets, for Swimsuits or Wet Clothes, Waterproof Washable Reusable
Universal with Kids
If you’re visiting Universal Orlando with kids, having a few extra things packed can make the day a lot easier. These are some simple items that help keep kids comfortable, happy, and ready for long park days.
I like sunscreen sticks for the parks because they’re easier to reapply between rides without having to deal with messy lotion.
Blue Lizard Kids' Mineral Sunscreen Stick for Face and Body - SPF 50+
It’s simple but it’s helpful if you have long hair. You never know when you’ll lose a hair tie or scrunchie.
SWIM Scrunchie, Solid Color Swim, Poolside Hair Tie, Beach and Water Bows - Etsy
Florida heat plus long park days can be tough for little ones in strollers. A stroller fan helps keep them a little cooler.
Itzy Ritzy Itzy Breeze 3-Speed Stroller Fan with Rechargeable Battery and Easy Attach Design - Tan Bear
Florida rain can pop up out of nowhere, and it doesn’t take long for a stroller to get completely soaked. It helps keep the stroller and anything stored underneath from getting wet while it’s parked outside rides.
Stroller Rain Cover with Zipper
I loved these when I traveled to the theme parks with my youngest. It stores the formula powder and water separately in the same bottle. When your baby is ready to eat, you just press the buttons on the side and shake.