How to Pack Efficiently for Universal Orlando Resort

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I think it’s safe to say that most people don’t enjoy packing. Unfortunately, it is an essential part of travel, and Universal Orlando Resort is no exception. If you’re trying to decide what to put on your packing list – look no further!

I used to be able to drive to Universal Orlando Resort in about 6 hours (man, those were the days!). But now, flying is basically my only viable option. That’s okay, though, because now I am way more savvy when it comes to flying. And, I now have a go-to packing list for Universal Orlando Resort that I can share with you! 

In addition to my go-to packing list, we’ll also talk about how I packed when I could drive to the parks. We’ll also go over what I like to carry with me into the parks.

Packing List: Essentials

1. Sling Bag/Crossbody Bag

One of my absolute favorite traveling accessories is a sling bag. Guys. And of course, I’m extremely picky with my bag choices because I have a bunch of different preferences (some that are the exact opposite of each other). Finding the goldilocks of bags has been pretty difficult, but I’ve narrowed it down to a few.

On flights, this works very well as my personal item in addition to my carry-on item. Sometimes smaller airlines/planes don’t allow the one free carry-on and personal item, so make sure you double-check your bag allowance!

There are several things I like to carry in my sling bag. Typically, this is where I put my passport, wallet, phone, AirPods, water bottle, and phone charger. My Kavu bag can also fit a lightweight change of clothes (typically only if I check a bag), and other items like a book and a tablet.

2. Receipts

That’s right, you better come with receipts. We’re talking reservation confirmations for everything you booked (flights, hotel, tickets, etc). Again, these are items that I typically have in my sling bag (partially for easy access, partially so I can obsessively check to make sure they’re still there).

Nowadays, people often rely on their email confirmations, but I like to have physical copies – just in case. If you prefer to use your phone, take screenshots of confirmation numbers or barcodes for quick access.

3. Lanyard

You’ve probably noticed that it seems like everyone at Universal uses lanyards. This is for a good reason! Using a lanyard to hold your ticket (s) and room key allows for quick and easy access.

You might end up using your tickets and room key often at Universal. When you enter the park, use a locker, get on the Hogwarts Express (switching parks), and have an Express Pass (ticket or room key), it’ll need to be scanned.

4. Water Bottle

Bringing a water bottle can help you save SO much money (while also keeping you hydrated) at Universal. Especially if you don’t plan on buying a souvenir cup. You can refill your water bottle at all of the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines with warm water and ice for free. And trust me, you will definitely need it during the summer… and spring… and probably fall.

Don’t forget your chargers! I like to just go ahead and put this in my sling bag for easy access for my flights.

Clothing and Footwear

Choosing the right clothing and footwear for Universal – while also trying to only bring one carry-on bag – can honestly be so frustrating. I have been trying to stop my overpacking ways for YEARS.

“But what if I need *insert item here*”?

I have always preferred bringing an item with me rather than buying a new item when I get somewhere.

6. Outfits

This is the hard part, guys. You don’t want to bring so many clothes that your suitcase will barely close, but you also don’t want to be unprepared for Florida weather.

The climate in Orlando can be quite unpredictable, but generally speaking, it is usually hot. Therefore, selecting lightweight, breathable fabrics for daytime activities is highly recommended. Fabrics such as cotton and moisture-wicking blends will keep you cool as you explore the park.

When deciding how many outfits to pack, I try to stick to the length of stay + 1.

My go-to clothing items typically include active/outdoor wear like shorts, skorts, and shirts/tank tops with UPF protection. Not only are these easy to pair with each other, but they also don’t take up much room in my suitcase.

I also try to bring at least one nice-looking outfit, in case we decide to eat somewhere somewhat fancy or take nice photos.

7. Swimsuit (s)

Most likely, you’ll want to bring a swimsuit or two. The resort pools are heated, and most of the hotels have hot tubs. So even if you’re visiting during the winter (which is more like fall in Florida), you may still have the opportunity to enjoy the pools.

8. Raincoat/poncho

Rain gear is an important aspect of your packing list, as Orlando is known for its rain showers. A raincoat, compact poncho, or a travel umbrella can be a lifesaver, ensuring that unexpected weather does not spoil your fun. Additionally, there are water rides at Universal’s theme parks.

If you want to stay dry – bring a poncho! You can buy ponchos and umbrellas at the park – but they are far more costly at Universal compared to online.

I bring a poncho almost every time, and I have forgotten to use the poncho every single time. *facepalm*

So, ultimately, maybe not a true essential, but

9. Comfortable Shoes

This is crucial. Unless your job involves a lot of walking, you will likely walk WAY more than normal while exploring the resort. The last thing you want is to wear uncomfortable shoes while walking over 10k steps a day.

I try to stick with 2 pairs of shoes. A comfortable closed-toe shoe (probably my Vans) and sandals. Some people prefer (or need) more arch support, so make sure you bring shoes that work for you.

Bringing sandals of some sort will also make your visit way easier. A versatile sandal can be used at the pool, water park, and sometimes even for dinner (please don’t wear your Crocs to a fancy dinner). Sandals are also far easier to put on for a quick trip to the ice/vending machine or down to the lobby.

Health and Safety Items

These are typically items that I pack in my toiletry bag, so they may have already been mentioned. But these items are a combination of essentials and nice-to-haves.

10. Medication

If you have medication you take regularly, obviously, you don’t want to forget it. In addition to regular medication, I like to bring non-drowsy Dramamine. I typically don’t suffer from motion sickness; however, it has been happening more to me in recent years. There are some rides at Universal that will notoriously cause motion sickness (I’m looking at you, Simpsons).

11. SUNSCREEN!

I already mentioned this in my toiletry kit, but it bears repeating. The sun can be truly unforgivable in Florida. You definitely DO NOT want to get burned on your first day on vacation.

Most people only need an SPF of 30 to 50, but don’t forget to reapply throughout the day! I can usually get away with only applying once or twice, but my fair-skinned sisters typically reapply SPF 70 – 100 two to three times per day.

I have the unfortunate curse of very sensitive eyes, so I have had to try SO many different types of sunscreen for my face. I’ve found a few that work very well, without burning my eyeballs. The trick for me is to go for mineral sunscreen (zinc) rather than chemicals (avobenzone, octinoxate, oxybenzone, etc).

My favorites right now are the CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick and Eucerin Tinted Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen. I use the Eucerin tinted sunscreen literally every day. It isn’t as strong as a foundation, but it does a great job of protecting my face from burning.

If I know I’ll be outside most of the day, I’ll layer the CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen under the Eucerin Tinted Sunscreen. The stick sunscreen is also small enough to fit in a pocket or small bag.

12. Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer might not be an essential on everyone’s packing list, but it is SUPER convenient if you want to avoid picking up a cold. I’ll save germ exposure for when I’m not travelling! Maybe it’s because I typically travel with my school-aged child, but it is so easy to pick up a cold when travelling.

There are literally thousands of people in the parks, especially during the summer. You’re constantly touching the ride bars or seatbelts that other people have touched. As a parent, this is honestly just a permanent fixture in my bag.

If you really do not feel like carrying a small hand sanitizer with you, there are hand sanitizer stations throughout the parks. They are typically at ride exits and are (surprisingly) rarely empty, at least in my experience. There are also plenty of bathrooms throughout the parks, so some good old-fashioned handwashing is available as well.

13. Toiletry Bag

A well-organized, travel-sized toiletries kit can seriously simplify your travel experience. Especially if you’re flying, keeping your liquids in one spot can really help expedite your TSA experience (which is great for you and others).

Guys, I used to be a hater. I used to feel like having one of those fancy hanging toiletry bags was just extra. I then did a complete 180 when I started flying more.

The items that typically live in my toiletry bag are [all travel-sized]:

I’ve found using a hanging toiletry bag to be generally convenient at a hotel as well as at home. By keeping the majority of my travel-sized toiletries in my bag, my packing time is sped up quite a bit. It’s basically a grab-and-go situation.

14. Snacks

I talk about bringing snacks in my post, Budget-Friendly Tips For Visiting Universal Orlando Resort. Not only is this a great way to save money, but it is also a great way to prevent yourself from getting hangry! Adding snacks to your packing list is absolutely essential.

While waiting in lines, which can be a common occurrence when visiting popular attractions, having snacks readily available can help keep your energy levels up (which keeps your hangry levels down). If you have kids, I don’t need to tell you the importance of carrying snacks with you 24/7.

I like to pack non-perishable snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, and dried fruit.

Packing List: Less Essential

I don’t know if I’d say these are non-essentials, but I definitely stress a little less about these items.

15. Camera

If you’re a photographer, you’ll likely want to bring your camera set up. Universal Orlando is a beautiful place with PLENTY of photo-worthy scenes.

16. Tablet

I typically bring the tablet for my kid during the trip, but this is mostly only used while we’re traveling. It is rarely used once we make it to the resort. We’re typically wayyyy too tired to bother with technology by the time we make it back to the hotel after a day in the parks.

Otherwise, keep it simple. There is so much to do at Universal Orlando, it’s unlikely that you’ll need to fill that time with other technology.

17. Insect Repellent

Insect repellent can be particularly beneficial during your visit, as Florida is home to various bugs that can be bothersome, especially in the warmer months.

In-Park Packing List:

I used to try to avoid bringing a bag into the park. It used to just be my handy lanyard with a card tucked into the holder and my phone. This allowed me to avoid (for the most part) the lockers and hopefully get in line faster.

Nowadays, I absolutely prefer to bring a bag into the parks. If you have a smaller, fanny-pack/sling bag, you’ll be able to bypass the lockers for a lot of the rides. The thrillest of the thrill rides will require you to put everything in a locker anyway. I’ve realized that having a small pack to carry a few specific items greatly enhances my in-park experience.

In my sling bag:

• water bottle
• sunscreen
• snack
• monies
• lanyard (with park ticket/room key)

Conclusion

Properly preparing for Universal Orlando Resort can drastically improve your vacation. Knowing which items to bring and which to leave can reduce planning stress and Mine works for me and my needs, but everyone is different. I would love to hear about any items that you just cannot leave behind during your trips! I hope you find my go-to packing list helpful in your planning process – while figuring out your own go-to packing.