{2024} A Mom's Guide to Practical Disney World Outfits

4/18/2024

I love packing for trips, but I'll admit, when I set out to packing for our first trip to Walt Disney World, I was stumped. What are the "must haves" for a trip to the Disney parks? What should I be sure to bring to look nice and feel comfortable for all of that walking, bending, climbing, and picture taking? How can so much fun require so much planning?

So join me, as we discuss what to pack for a trip to Disney World, and my Disney World essentials!

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Packing for a trip to Disney World?

Disney World Outfit Ideas. Magic Kingdom, Beast's Castle

Magic Kingdom, Beast's Castle (JSB)

There's nothing better than a trip to Walt Disney World and, for me, personally, the planning is half the fun. I am absolutely the organizer in the group; the one in the group who's managing every reservation and herding us from one ride to the next, with planned snack stops. And though you'll certainly spend your days logging 20,000 steps in the Magic Kingdom, you'll likely spend your evening sampling Disney's luxurious dining options and relaxing by the pool or at your hotel.

If you've been following along with my blog for a while, then you know I am a packing aficionado, and a bit of a clothes horse. I'm obsessed with packing for trips, and I love looking my best, no matter where I'm visiting. That said, I'll admit that I've always found theme parks a bit of a challenge. As an adult, I find packing for Disney to be sort of overwhelming. I want to look nice, but I don't want to be the mom who rolls in with the most bags for herself (not to mention - who wants to wrangle all of those in the airport...)

So, I thought it was time to take a deep dive and update my tips on packing for Disney World.

As a thirty-something mama, I know it can be us who put the most into our trips, and planning for ourselves should be no exception. I've rounded up my perfect summary of everything you need to pack for Disney World. First, 'rules to dress by,' then Disney World Essentials, then some Disney outfits.

Disney World Packing Essentials for Women.

Epcot, Disney World (JSB)

One of the best parts of any Disney World vacation is that it's so much "more" than just a theme park. With restaurants, shopping, and of course swimming, many days I wear 2+ outfits.

Chefs de France, Epcot.

Walt Disney World:
Rules to Dress By for Mama

I like to start my "what to wear" posts with a few high-level things to to keep in mind while you're packing. In the case of a Disney World trip, it's a good idea to remember that while comfort is key, you can still look your best, while feeling your best all day (and taking care of the whole family).

1. Lean into the breathable fabrics of athleisure

A Disney vacation is a marathon, not a sprint. And the good news for us, is that the athleisure craze has generated an entire world of perfect outfits for Disney World. Leave the jeans at home. Athletic shorts, t-shirts, joggers, sneakers, crossbody bags (formerly known as a fanny pack), and anything from Lululemon will get you through your Disney trip in sweat-wicking style.

2. Comfort doesn't have to be sloppy

As I mentioned, feeling comfortable and cool, in every sense of the word, doesn't have to mean that you look like you just rolled out of bed. Plan easy outfits in advance, and you'll feel polished and put together throughout your trip.

You're prepping in advance, so you're already halfway there!

3. Embrace the magic

Bright colors are the name of the game. Leave the black leggings at home. Ok, you can bring one pair. Except in summer months when even the thought of leggings or anything black will make you start sweating.

4. Break in your shoes, Mama

I shouldn't have to say this, but we all need reminding. A trip to Disney is not the time to wear your newest, unworn shoes. Buy new shoes for your trip, yes, but break those bad boys in long before you go.

5. Be ready to pivot

Motherhood makes us ready for anything, and pivoting on vacation is no exception. Pack a change of clothes not just for kiddos, but also one for yourself, in that diaper bag. Just roll up a pair of shorts and a t-shirt, in the even of calamity. Nothing makes a long day longer than a shirt covered in blueberry handprints and Dole Whip.

6. It's still hot in the winter

It can be a bit of a good, but difficult, transition to Florida in the winter months, from the chilly upper reaches of the Midwest, at least for me! Really mentally prepare yourself for how hot you're going to get walking around all day in the Florida sun, even if it's unbelievable from your kitchen table in Indianapolis, looking out on a 25-degree afternoon! I had to unpack 3 sweatshirts from my bag on my most recent trip to Florida!! You just don't need them. The average high temperature at Disney World in February is in the low 70's.

Curious to learn more about packing for Florida, beyond the parks? Check out another recent post, What to Pack for Florida

Epcot drinks. Disney World Outfit Ideas.

Drinks at Epcot (JSB)

FAQ: Is there a dress code at Disney World?

If you're on my blog reading this post, it's unlikely to me that you're going to violate it, but technically there is a dress code at Disney World! It's largely concerned with the use of costume masks and shirts containing objectionable material, but if you're interested, here it is!

Disney World Dress Code FAQ.

Did you know?

In November 2024, Disney and Lululemon premiered a collaboration: Disney x Lulu.

What to Wear in Disney World:
Disney Packing Essentials

Comfortable Footwear

Beyond a doubt, bringing the right shoes to Disney World should be - by far - the most important item on your list. Shoes are certainly where you should spend the most time and money, as a mistake on the shoe front will come back to haunt you for your entire vacation.

Before we get into the specifics, a couple over-arching tips. First, you must break in your shoes long before your trip. A few wears is just not enough. These need to be shoes that you have worn for full days and been completely comfortable. Preferably, they should be shoes you have worn on another vacation. And second, bring more shoes than you think you'll need so you can rotate. Even the most comfortable shoes will start to hurt after several days in a row.

Disney World Shoe Packing List:

Sneakers - For the day-to-day walking, I'd bring two pairs of nice sneakers. I generally switch back and forth between them to avoid blisters with all of that walking. I mean...it's a lot of walking. A lot.
Sandals - For any trip to Florida, you'll want to bring your comfortable sandals. For grabbing a quick bite, lounging around exploring your resort, or an afternoon/evening with less walking, I often opt for a pair of "nice" sandals.
Pool flip flops - I discovered these plastic version from Jack Rogers last year and immediately fell in love. Extremely reasonably priced and fully-plastic, but with that classic Jack Rogers style, they're the perfect, water-proof option for your time by the pool!

Layers and a Light Jacket

Depending on the time of year, don't forget your layers. Ignore this section if you're visiting June-August when it'll be hotter than anything.

Something that surprises visitors is learning that it is not boiling hot in Orlando all year 'round. Our last two visits have been in January/February, and on both visits, we definitely needed light jackets. On one trip, I actually wore my Barbour coat. The "locals" will always says it's "abnormally chilly," but it's really not - that's just their way of apologizing for the fact you can't go to the pool every day.

The weather fluctuates - depending on what time you hit the parks, if it's winter, it could be in the 40's/50's and you might want a small jacket...with the knowledge that it may be in the 70's when you return. Unless it's the heat of summer, I'd recommend bringing at least a light jacket, both for rain, and for morning or evening chill.
The weather fluctuates - depending on what time you hit the parks, if it's winter, it could be in the 40's/50's and you might want a small jacket...with the knowledge that it may be in the 70's when you return. I'd recommend either a light cardigan that you can easily jam in your purse, or a windbreaker, depending on the time of year.

Want to buy some Disney gear in advance?
Check out The Disney Store.

Rain Gear Essentials

The unfortunate reality of any trip is that it might rain, even in the happiest place on earth. And you are definitely not going to spend your entire day in the hotel just because of a bit of rain. While you can certainly rock the indelible...Disney poncho, why not just bring an umbrella, a light jacket, and some rain-proof shoes.

I would highly recommend not wearing pool flip flops to the parks in the rain, as your feet will be covered in whatever sort of germs are on the ground in Disney World, and I think we'd all rather not think about that. Additionally, walking a long distance in wet shoes will definitely cause serious rubbing. Ouch!

Packing for Dinner in Disney World

Epcot, evening. Disney World Outfit Ideas.

Epcot, evening (SPC)

Dinner at Disney is one of the gems of the experience - don't forget to bring clothes for it!

So many people think only of the parks and forget to pack for the other events on the Disney docket. That said, many of your dinners won't be terribly formal - you'll want more relaxed, Florida attire.

Most restaurants around Disney don't have strict dress codes, particularly the locations in the parks, as many guests just go straight to dinner from a solid day on the rides. But, be sure to check, especially if you're hitting a fancier location, such as the higher end restaurants in the resorts. For me, I don't think you can go wrong with a good Lilly Pulitzer dress, a classic tunic, or a cute matching set, during the warmer months! Classic Florida attire if there ever was some!

FAQ: Can I bring a purse into Disney World?

Yes!

You are allowed to bring a purse into the parks, as long as they meet the size requirements - I had been curious about this recently, given the restrictions at sports stadiums. But, with so many people having kids in tow, it just wouldn't be reasonable not to. On the slower rides, such as Peter Pan, Small World, Haunted Mansion, Pooh Bear, etc., you are allowed to bring your purse on with you and just hold onto it.

The Perfect Purse for Disney World

I'd strongly recommend an easy, durable, hands-free Lululemon belt bag. You can just leave those belt bags strapped on and not have to worry about a shoulder bag, or digging through the stroller for your personal possessions.

If you're going to be doing a date night, I'd slip a small, less utilitarian purse into your suitcase as well.

Disney World beach and pool essentials, regardless of season

Generally, hitting the pool is going to be on your agenda for a trip to Florida, even if a water park isn't in the cards! Even if it's February and seems like it can't possibly be warm enough, go ahead and bring your swim gear - you'll definitely regret it if you don't, and it's super small, so it'll fit in your suitcase.

If you're staying in a higher-end hotel, make sure you know what the dress code is in the lobby (many hotel won't let you run through the lobby in your bathing suit). So, be sure to bring a solid cover-up.

Sun Protection for Disney World

No matter the season, and regardless of my previous strictures on rain, don't forget to bring your sunscreen and hat.

You'll see many a tourist with a *surprise* sunburn in January - the sun is hotter than you'd expect in Florida, and you'll be outside wandering around lots and lots, even if you aren't sitting out by the pool. I also try to avoid v-cut tops, as they inevitably lead to a weird chest sunburn.

We'll discuss hats more below, but I'd pack both a baseball cap for walking in the parks and, if you plan to have entire pool days as breaks from the parks, a large wide-brimmed hat.

View from the Beach Resort (JSB)

The Right Shorts for Disney World

I'm more of a long pants girl myself, year 'round (yes, even in summer), but there are times when even I must wear shorts. That said, hopping on and off rides, I'd recommend longer shorts, to avoid sitting too directly on any of the ride seats (which, aside from being highly used, also can be hot/cold/wet, etc.)

I'd bring a couple pairs of athletic shorts (I like the Hotty Hot from Lulu), and a couple pairs of bike shorts, a skort, one pair of leggings/joggers, and a travel set for the return journey.

Ok, feel free to come for me in the comment section, but I'm going to recommend against wearing denim shorts for a long day of walking at Disney World. It's hot and denim is thick and heavy. And if you're anything like me, my 'thigh gap' is a thing of the past. The last thing you want to worry about is chaffing. We'll leave it at that.

Don't underestimate the tennis skirts and skorts trend

One of the first things I thought when people started wearing tennis skirts in everyday life was "wow that would make a really cute Disney World outfit."

Does that make me Disney crazy?
Yes.
Pair that with a polka dot shirt and you're everyone's favorite Disney character....just sayin'!

In all seriousness, a tennis skirt is a great way to stay cool while doing a ton of walking, which also keeps you perfectly 'on trend' in hot weather!

FAQ: Where can I order family shirts for Disney World?

Wanting to coordinate the whole family with themed shirts for your trip to Disney World? I'd recommend starting your search on Etsy. I'm biased because I'm an Etsy seller, but there really are tons of ladies on there making really creative, easily customizable shirts.

Pair yours with those athletic shorts, pop-over, belt bag, and sneakers and you're all set with a cute outfit for the day. Really feeling in the spirit?

Some Minnie ears are a great addition to any outfit.

The Ultimate Walt Disney World Packing List, For Mom

Bathing suit
Cover-up
Beach bag
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Water bottle
SPF clothing
Bug protection
Toiletries bag
3 pairs of shorts
1 pair of jeans/leggings
Travel set for flight
3 dresses
2 pairs of sneakers
1 pair of nice sandals
1 pair of beach shoes
4 t-shirts
2 tunics
Jacket (winter only)
Wrap
Baseball cap
Sun hat
Crossbody purse
Purse for evening

Disney World Outfit Ideas for Mom

Thanks for Stopping By!

I hope you have the most magical trip!!

Prepare for that Florida weather by researching your temperature and rain chances in the weather forecast in advance. Share your packing tips for Disney World below in the comment section!

Bon voyage! xx

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