Disneyland Paris Packing List: Essentials You’ll Actually Use

What are the Disneyland Paris Essentials?

Let’s talk packing—because overthinking it is basically a rite of passage!

I’ve made the classic mistake in my rookie Disney years: packing enough for a week when I was only staying two nights, suitcase was stuffed with extra outfits, too many pairs of Mickey ears, and shoes that looked cute but left me limping before lunchtime.
All in the name of getting the perfect Instagram photo.

In this guide, I’ll show you what you actually need for a day in the parks.

These are the bare essentials I now pack every single trip, designed to save space, keep you comfortable, and help you focus on the fun.

Just a heads-up: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep First Step Europe running (and keeps me fuelled with Disney snacks), so thank you!

🎒 Disneyland Paris Packing List:
The Actual Essentials To Get To The Parks

Before you even think about Minnie ears or matching t-shirts, let’s make sure you’ve got the essentials to get you there and checked in with all your hair still intact!

🎒 What’s In My Backpack At Disneyland Paris

These are the 🎵 bear necessities (get it?) that I carry into the parks every single trip.

It might sound like I’m prepping for an expedition, but trust me, once packed down, this barely fills my small backpack—and covers just about every Disney situation you’ll face in the parks.

I’ll go into a few of them in more detail below, but most of it folds down to nothing and keeps the day running smoothly.
Nothing valuable ever goes in here—just the practical stuff.

👕 Layers

If you’re visiting in winter, I always pack a couple of winterised running tops. They’re warm without being bulky and layer up easily as the temperature drops.

In summer, I swap these for sweat-wick tops and pack a very thin long-sleeve shirt to cover my shoulders when the sun gets too much. Nothing fancy, just practical layers that fold up small and help me adjust as the day goes on.

🪑 Telescopic Stool

If you’re visiting during summer or peak season, bringing a telescopic stool can make queuing so much easier. They’re lightweight, fold down small, and you can sit down in the queue without losing your place.

Especially handy for kids or anyone who needs a break from standing all day.

💧 Collapsible Water Bottles

Collapsible Water Bottles are one of my favourite ways to help do Disneyland Paris on a budget. I just fold mine up when it’s empty, then refill at the water fountains when needed.

Just a heads-up for winter visitors: the fountains often get switched off to stop the pipes freezing. If that happens, I fill my bottle from the hotel kettle in the morning and let it cool while I’m walking to the parks. Not glamorous, but it works.

🎀 Snap Bracelet

Sounds odd, but stay with me on this one. I loop a simple snap bracelet through the little handle on my backpack, then slide my Ears through it to clip them onto my bag. It saves digging around in your bag and stops them falling off on rides.

Mine’s even survived Flight Force, so that’s enough proof for me.

🧴 Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitiser

I’ve caught the dreaded Disney bug more times than I want to admit. These days, I use hand sanitiser after pretty much every ride and before eating anything.

Make sure it’s alcohol-free, as that’s gentler on your skin after constant use. I once watched a child lick a handrail (yes, really), and after that, you can bet I stopped touching them entirely. If I do, sanitiser comes straight out.

🛍️ Foldaway Bag

This comes in handy, especially in winter when I’m wearing big coats. As soon as I’m inside a ride queue or building, I take my coat off, pop it into the foldaway bag, tie the handles, and stash it at my feet.

It just saves carrying extra bulk around when you don’t need it. I always keep the foldaway bag clipped to my backpack so it’s easy to grab.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

I only wear Asics or Skechers when I’m in Disneyland Paris. I did 28 hours in the parks over two days last June, and my feet still felt like I was walking on clouds.

Don’t try to break in new shoes here. Running between parks and long queues don’t care how stylish your trainers are. Go for comfort.

Zipped Cross-Body Bag / Bum Bag

This is where I keep my passport, money, and phone. By law in France, you’re supposed to carry your passport with you at all times, so I always have it zipped safely inside my bag.

I use a slim cross-body bag that sits under my jacket or a bum bag worn under clothes when it’s warmer.

It’s not flashy, but it’s secure and out of sight, which makes it much harder for pickpockets to spot. Don’t be worried by this, Disneyland Paris is safe– it’s just better to be even safer than sorry!

Touch wood, I’ve been travelling like this for over a decade and haven’t been pickpocketed yet. Long may that luck continue.

Useful Apps To Have Before You Go

Here are a few apps I always have installed on my phone when heading to the parks.

📲 Disneyland Paris App

If you download one thing before your trip, make it the Disneyland Paris app.

It’s an absolute lifesaver once you’re in the parks. You can check live queue times, book restaurants, use mobile food ordering, and see show schedules all in one place.

It also has an interactive map that’s much easier to use than trying to navigate with the paper one (though I always grab one for the scrapbook).

Keep your power bank handy, because you’ll be using this app constantly. We have a guide on how to get the most out of the Disneyland Paris App for you to read!

💶 Currency Converter

Having a currency converter on your phone is handy when you’re standing in a shop trying to work out if those Mickey ears really are a bargain.

I use mine every trip for double-checking prices and budgeting as I go. It just stops any nasty surprises when you check your bank account after the trip.

👥 Utilise Facebook Groups

Facebook groups are a hidden gem for Disneyland Paris visitors. I recommend:

• Pass on a Pushchair – Great if you don’t want to bring a stroller with you
• Plus Size at DLP – Really helpful for ride info, restaurant seating, and general tips

• Our Disney Planning Group – Ideal for getting answers to any last-minute questions (shameless plug, but it’s helpful!)

They’re friendly, full of real-time advice, and a good way to avoid common first-timer mistakes.

💸 Skiptax App

If you’re planning to spend big on merch, the Skiptax app is worth having. It lets you claim back VAT on your purchases, which can save you a decent chunk if you’re stocking up on souvenirs.

We’ve got a full guide on how to use it, but in short: download the app, scan your receipts, and claim your refund before leaving France. It’s simple to use and can save you some euros for your next Disney snack stop.

❓ FAQs About Packing For Disneyland Paris

What not to bring to Disneyland Paris?

There are a few things best left at home. Glass bottles aren’t allowed, along with professional cameras or drones. Selfie sticks are banned too, as are large hard-shell coolers and big wheeled suitcases. Loose ice is also on the banned list, weirdly enough.

For the full list of what’s not allowed in the parks, check out my Disneyland Paris Bag Policy Guide where I’ve explained it all in detail.

What to pack for Disneyland Paris in January?

Although it is one of the best times to visit Disneyland Paris, January is cold so layers are your best friend.

I always pack winterised running tops to stay warm without the bulk, along with gloves and a hat for early mornings.

Thin thermal layers help when the temperature drops, and a lightweight waterproof jacket is useful too, as rain is common this time of year.

I also pack spare socks and a portable charger, since phone batteries tend to drain quicker in the cold. It might be chilly, but the quieter queues in January are well worth wrapping up for.

Can you take packed lunches into Disneyland Paris?

You can, but keep it simple. Full-on picnics aren’t technically allowed, but small packed lunches like sandwiches, crisps, or pastries are fine. We usually grab a few pastries from near the hotel to save on park meal prices.

Just avoid anything in glass containers, alcohol, or food that needs heating up, and you’ll be fine. But be sure to leave room for all the Disneyland Paris snacks!

Final Thoughts

Packing for Disneyland Paris doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you’ve got the essentials sorted and your backpack packed with the bits you’ll actually use, you’re good to go. Comfortable shoes, a few clever space-savers, and maybe a churro or two are all you really need for a great day in the parks.

If you want a handy checklist to make it even easier, don’t forget to grab my free printable packing list.

Happy Disney-ing!