What’s in My Bag? Winter Disneyland Backpack Essentials for a Quick Trip
Cold days in sunny SoCal are far and few in-between, but there are times around the holidays when L.A.'s version of Jack Frost comes nipping at your nose and being unprepared can be a mood killer. The day I decided to become an AP holder (old school lingo am I right?!), it had been years since I visited the Happiest Place on Earth, and I was severely unprepared. It was mid-December, and I was traveling with a group of girls that were experts. I never thought to ask questions because it’s just Disneyland, right? Cash, I.D. and lip gloss were all I needed, right? I could not have been more wrong. I was freezing, my hair was getting bigger by the minute and yes, at midday it started to rain! EXCUSE ME? I know it is wintertime, but we traditionally don't get much rain at all, so when the skies opened up, I knew there was a lesson in all this somewhere!
I was unaware that backpacks were allowed in the parks, so all I had was a little wristlet. That was over 10 years ago, and I have never made that mistake again! I have an " I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it." motto. Here is my winter must haves in my Disney bag:
Gloves- small knit ones from Target are fine, they are usually less than $5. There are times when the wind is a factor, and I personally hate the cold. Los Angeles is notorious for being cold in the morning, beautiful and sunny in the middle of the day then back to super cold at night. These gloves take up virtually no space and you can even still use your smartphone while using them with their touch screen technology.
Target.com
Hand Warmers- these things are small but mighty and last 10 hours! On the RARE occasion I am doing an all-day trip I can open them in the morning, put them in my gloves and go. When the sun comes out, take them and the gloves off and throw them in my bag and when it goes back down, pull them right back out and they are still good to go!
Hand Lotion or Cream- This goes without saying, but when its colder outside you want a hand lotion that is a little heavier than your everyday because between the constant hand washing and sanitizing mixed with the cold air, your hands will dry out quickly. My favorites are either the Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant or Eucerin Advanced Repair, both which come in travel size.
Lip Balm- just like the hands, the lips need love too because the last thing you want is dry chapped lips, especially with all the pictures you need to pose for! Vaseline Lip Therapy is another go to here, as well as Palmers Cocoa Butter Stick. If your lips tend to get really dry in cold weather, I suggest the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Lip Balm.
Earmuffs and/ or Scarf- Dramatic for LA? Possibly, but the worst feeling is to pull up to the parks at night and that wind starts to blow. I can manage cold, but I do not like the cold and being cold is the quickest way for me to say LET’S GO! There are a few times where it is just flat out cold, and you want to be prepared. Again, for me, these things are used maybe a few hours out of the trip, and they are compact and can fit right in my bag easily.
Leak Proof Coffee Tumbler- Ok hear me out before you judge me! I have a love affair with Ghirardelli Sea Salt Caramel Hot Cocoa and if there is a way I can keep it warm for as long as I can and still make my lightning lane, then that is what is going to happen! It came in handy when my friend and I were walking and see a ride with no line, we can hop right on, and I not have to discard my hot cocoa. Mine is only 12 oz so it easily fits in my winter park bags. Yes, I have different bags depending on the season, and no, I will not be taking questions at this time LOL! There were a few times my cocoa cooled off too quickly or I had to chug it down before I wasn't ready because the mission was more important than the snack. Now, that is no longer a choice I must make. Greedy? Perhaps. Do I care? absolutely not. Now, this is a rare occasion, but I usually know a head of time if I want a hot cocoa, but what can’t be predicted is Lightening Lane return times, ride breakdowns and return time push backs. My tumbler is thin, so it fits easily in my bag if there is a chance I am not finished with my beverage if plans suddenly change. You know my motto is id rather have it and not need it, then need it and not have it.
Large Compact Umbrella- This sounds like an oxymoron, but it truly isn’t. This inverted umbrella, when closed and wrapped is only 14inches and fits perfectly in my bag. When you open it, the coverage is 54 inches and 29 inches high. It rarely rains in L.A., but there are times when rope drop can get a little drizzle for the first hour. I love rainy days at the park, but not when I am unprepared. I found this one on Amazon and I love it!
Winter at Disneyland brings its own kind of magic, from twinkling lights to seasonal treats, but it also requires a bit of extra planning. By packing thoughtfully for the colder days, you can ensure that you're ready to enjoy every moment, whether you're cozying up on a ride, braving a light drizzle, or catching the evening fireworks.
As a Magic Key holder, I’ve learned that a well-packed backpack is your best ally against the unpredictable winter weather. With these essentials, you'll stay warm, dry, and ready for adventure. So next time you head to the park, pack smart, bundle up, and let the winter wonder at Disneyland unfold around you. Here's to a season full of magical memories, no matter the temperature!