Planning a Disney Cruise with kids? After cruising Disney with our own little ones a couple of times, I’ve learned that you really don’t need to pack your entire house—but there are a handful of things that can make the trip SO much easier.
I’m keeping this Disney Cruise guide simple. Below you’ll find some of my biggest tips for cruising Disney with kids, followed by the Disney Cruise packing list I’d use for our own family.
I’ve saved ALLL the tips and behind the scenes videos to my highlight bubbles on Instagram and TikTok!
Disney Cruise Packing List for Families
Here’s what I’d consider packing for a Disney Cruise with kids. I’ve also linked the travel products we personally use and love throughout this list so you can easily find everything before your trip.
Disney Cruise Essentials
- Passports/travel documents
- Cruise luggage tags (print these before leaving home!)
- Small embarkation-day bag (passports, swimsuits, etc should be in this bag because you might not get your luggage until later that day)
- Portable charger
- Refillable water bottles
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hats
- Small first-aid kit
- Any medications
- Motion-sickness supplies
- Lanyard or card holder
- Wet bag
- Zip-top bags
- Laundry bag
- Magnetic hooks for additional organization
- Reusable straws if your kids prefer them
See full list here.
What to Pack for Kids
- Swimsuits — I’d bring at least two per child
- Rash guards (these zip-up ones are our favs!)
- Water shoes
- Goggles
- Sun hats
- Pajamas
- Comfortable daytime clothes
- Dinner outfits
- Light sweater or sweatshirt
- Sandals
- Sneakers (some activities you’ll need close toe shoes)
- Favorite comfort item
- Small travel sound machine (trust me on this one)
- Night-light
- Kid headphones
- Tablet/Yoto or other travel entertainment
- A few familiar snacks
Pirate Night
If Pirate Night is scheduled on your sailing, bringing a few things from home can make it extra fun without buying everything onboard.
- Pirate costumes (I’ve linked ours here!)
- Pirate accessories
- Bandanas
- Temporary tattoos
- Glow sticks/light-up accessories
You definitely don’t need elaborate costumes. Even a pirate T-shirt or a few inexpensive accessories can make the night feel special for kids.
Beach & Port Day
- Refillable water bottles
- Beach bag (we love these ones that are easy to pack!)
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Sunglasses
- Water shoes
- Swimsuits/rash guards
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Small sand toys for younger kids (these collapsible buckets are easy to pack!)
- Portable fan
- Stroller if needed
- Toddler carrier
Disney Cruise Tips for Families
1. Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App Before You Go
You’ll use the app constantly once you’re onboard. It’s where you’ll find the daily schedule, character appearances, activities, dining information and more. Download it and get logged in before your trip so it’s one less thing to worry about on embarkation day.
2. Pack Swimsuits in Your Carry-On
Your checked luggage may not arrive at your stateroom immediately, so don’t bury the kids’ swimsuits in your suitcase!
I like having a small embarkation-day bag with swimsuits, sunscreen, medications and anything else we might want during those first few hours onboard.
3. Know the Pool Rules Before Traveling With a Toddler
Children who aren’t toilet trained generally can’t use the pools onboard, even with swim diapers. Check your specific Disney ship for splash areas designed for younger children before sailing.
4. Take Advantage of the Kids Clubs
The kids spaces are one of the things that make Disney Cruise Line so fun for families. Check the current age requirements for your ship before sailing, especially if you’re traveling with a toddler or preschooler.
And don’t skip the Open House periods! They’re a great opportunity for younger kids—and parents—to explore some of these incredible spaces together.
5. Don’t Try to Do Everything
There can be an overwhelming number of activities, shows, character appearances and events happening onboard.
Pick the things your family really cares about and leave room for downtime. Some of our favorite vacation memories happen when we aren’t rushing from one activity to another.
6. Order the Mickey Ice Cream Bars
This deserves its own tip.
Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars are available onboard, and getting one delivered to the room is one of those little Disney Cruise traditions our kids love.
Things That Make Your Stateroom Easier With Kids
Cruise cabins can get messy FAST with a family sharing a small space. A few organization items can make a surprisingly big difference.
- Magnetic hooks
- Packing cubes
- Pop-up laundry hamper
- Toiletry organizer
- Small night-light
- Travel sound machine
- Charging station that complies with Disney Cruise Line’s current rules
- Stroller fan/portable fan
Important: Disney Cruise Line has restrictions on certain electrical items and other prohibited items, so always check the current prohibited-items list before packing power strips, extension cords or similar products.
Things You Probably DON’T Need to Pack
Don’t overpack just because you’re traveling with kids!
Depending on your ship and itinerary, you can likely leave behind things like excessive toys, piles of snacks, beach towels and a different fancy outfit for every night.
Disney provides towels for onboard pool areas and when appropriate for Disney’s beach destinations, so I wouldn’t use valuable suitcase space packing full-size beach towels.
