Universal Orlando Packing List (PDF Download)

I LOVE a good packing list.

No matter what type of trip our family is taking, I go online to find a packing list I can download that is specific to that vacation.

Because I find them so useful, the team here at Be Prepared Vacations collaborated and came up with a packing list for a trip to Universal Orlando.

If you just want the 4-page PDF document, click this link to download it!

If you want to learn more about the “why” behind certain items, along with additional details, then keep reading!

Important Things to Consider When Packing:

I tried to include everything you MIGHT need below. You will have to make the final determination whether it’s necessary or not. I recommend asking yourself the following three questions to help figure out what you need to bring.

When are you going?

The summer months in Florida have brutal heat with frequent showers. The winter months are much cooler and mornings/evenings can be quite chilly. Pack accordingly for the weather.

Who is going with you?

I’m usually done packing for myself quickly. But then we have to pack the kids’ suitcases and all their needs. Are grandparents going? Try to consider everyone in the group.

Where are you staying?

It’s helpful to know what will already be in your room, such as soaps, hair dryers, a refrigerator, etc. Is there laundry nearby? Do you have a kitchenette?

Clothing:

• Shirts and tanks: Lightweight tops keep you cool in Florida’s heat, and tanks are perfect for those REALLY hot Florida days. As for shirts, I try to pack one for each day plus one.
• Shorts: Essential for staying comfortable while walking in the parks in warmer weather.
• Pants: Useful for cooler evenings, air-conditioned restaurants, or if you want extra sun protection.
• Walking Shoes: Supportive footwear is a must for covering miles of theme parks.
• Sandals/flip flops: Great for pool days, water rides, or giving your feet a break from sneakers.
• Socks: Fresh socks help prevent blisters and keep your feet comfortable all day. And reusing a pair of socks is gross. 🙂
• Themed outfits/costumes: Add extra fun by dressing up as your favorite characters or lands.

• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the intense Florida sun while making it easier to see outdoor attractions.
• Dress clothes and shoes: Handy if you plan on enjoying upscale dining or special events.
• Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear makes winding down after a long park day much nicer.
• Underwear: Bring enough for your trip, plus a few extra pairs in case of unexpected weather or water rides.
• Bras: Include both everyday and sports bras for comfort during long park days.
• Belts
• Hats/visors: Provide shade and sun protection while keeping you cool.
• Swimsuits: Perfect for hotel pools, Volcano Bay, or water rides where you want to get soaked.
• Face mask
• Jewelry: Adds a touch of style for nights out or special dinners, but keep it minimal for park days.
• Light Jacket: Good for breezy evenings or sudden temperature drops.
• Sweatshirts: Ideal for early mornings, late nights, or visiting in cooler months.
• Cover-up: Great for moving between the pool and other public areas comfortably.
• Watch and charger
• Work out clothes: If your hotel has a gym, or you want to run before walking 20K+ steps. 🙂
• Pillows/blankets
• Small backpack or waist bag/fanny pack: Convenient for carrying essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks without slowing you down.

Paperwork and travel docs:

• Boarding passes: Make airport check-in and security a breeze by having them ready before you arrive.
• Cash/Credit cards: Ensures you can pay for food, souvenirs, and unexpected expenses anywhere.
• Dollar bills for tips: Perfect for quickly tipping bellhops, valet staff, or housekeeping without breaking larger bills.
• Park tickets (or confirmation # and plan to get them): Essential for entry into Universal’s parks and to avoid delays at the gate.
• Rental car confirmation: Speeds up the pickup process and helps avoid any booking mix-ups.
• Hotel confirmation: A backup record in case there are any issues when checking in.
• Driver’s License or ID: Needed for airport security, hotel check-in, and some age-restricted purchases.
• Insurance cards: Important in case of a medical emergency while traveling.
• Notepad and pen: Handy for jotting down confirmation numbers, reminders, or trip notes.
• Stamps and address for sending postcards: A fun way to share your trip with friends and family the old-fashioned way.
• Itinerary: Keeps your schedule, reservations, and plans organized so you don’t miss anything.
• Restaurant info

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss: Keep your teeth fresh and healthy after long park days and meals on the go.
• Hairbrush: Tames windblown hair after rides or Florida’s humidity.
• Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash: Your hotel will have these products, but some people prefer bringing their own.
• Hair spray/gel: Keeps your style in place despite heat, humidity, or water rides.
• Body lotion
• Shaving cream and a razor
• Deodorant: A must for staying fresh in Florida’s warm weather.
• Face wash: Removes sunscreen, sweat, and makeup after a full day in the parks.
• Tissues: Useful for sniffles, spills, or quick cleanups anywhere.
• Make-up and remover
• Hair dryer: Speeds up drying after swimming or showers, especially if your hotel’s dryer is weak.
• Contacts/glasses
• Q-tips
• Nail polish and remover: For quick fixes to chips or to change your look mid-trip.
• Tweezers
• Nail file/clippers
• Tampons/pads
• Lip balm
• Small cups: Great for rinsing after brushing teeth or giving kids drinks in the room.
• Flushable wipes: Provide extra freshness and comfort beyond regular toilet paper.

Kitchen and Laundry:

• Laundry soap: Lets you wash clothes in your hotel or rental, so you can pack lighter and re-wear items.
• Dryer sheets
• Laundry bags: Separate dirty clothes from clean ones in your suitcase.
• Stain removers
• Dish soap and dish scrubber: Useful if your hotel room has dishes, cups, or refillable bottles.
• Paper plates, bowls, and cups: Convenient for quick in-room meals or snacks without needing to wash dishes.
• Trash bags: Keep your space tidy and make cleanup easy, especially if bringing your own snacks.
• Plastic utensils: Handy for eating takeout or simple meals in your room.
• Ziploc bags of varying sizes: Perfect for packing snacks, keeping electronics dry on water rides, or storing wet clothes.
• Disposable cups
• Paper towels: Multi-purpose for spills, quick cleanups, or drying items.
• Refillable water bottles: Save money by refilling at water fountains and stay hydrated all day in the parks.
• Gum (not sold at Universal): If you chew gum, bring your own since it’s not available for purchase in the parks.
• Drinks: Stock your hotel room with water, juice, or soda to avoid paying theme park prices.
• Easy snacks and food: We always bring as many snacks as possible to keep in the room. This saves us LOTS of money.

Medicine:

• Prescription medications: Essential for maintaining your health—always bring enough for your entire trip, plus a little extra in case of delays.
• Moleskin and safety scissors: A lifesaver for preventing or protecting against blisters after long days of walking.
• Band-aids: Useful for small cuts, scrapes, or covering hot spots on your feet.
• Hydrocortisone cream: Helps relieve itching and irritation.
• Antibiotic ointment: Speeds healing and helps prevent infection from minor cuts or scrapes.
• Aloe vera: Soothes sunburn and provides cooling relief after long days in the sun.
• Pain medication: Reduces headaches, muscle soreness, or general aches from all-day park adventures.
• Motion sickness meds: Keep rides and transportation enjoyable for those sensitive to motion.
• Vitamins: Maintain your energy and health while traveling.
• Birth control: Important for staying on your regular schedule without interruptions.
• Midol: Eases cramps and other discomfort so you can enjoy your trip without missing out.
• Allergy medication: Reduces symptoms from pollen, dust, or unexpected allergic reactions.

Everything Else:

• Cell phone: Your all-in-one device for photos, maps, ride wait times, and communication.
• Chargers for all electronics: Keep phones, cameras, and other devices powered throughout your trip.
• Cameras (if you want one other than your phone): Capture high-quality photos or videos without draining your phone battery.
• Laptop: Useful for work, streaming, or managing travel details during downtime.
• Insulated coffee mug: Keeps your coffee hot in the morning or cold drinks chilled for hours.
• Pins for trading: A fun activity for both kids and adults.
• First aid kit: Handy for quickly treating minor injuries without visiting first aid stations.
• External battery for charging: Keeps your devices running all day when outlets aren’t available.
• Ponchos/umbrella: Stay dry during sudden Florida rain showers or on water rides.
• Headphones: Perfect for travel, relaxing in your room, or blocking noise on transportation.
• Misting fan/neck fan: Helps you stay cool during hot Florida afternoons.
• Beach bag for pool: Makes it easy to carry towels, sunscreen, and swimsuits to the pool or water park.
• Hand sanitizer: Keeps your hands clean before eating or after rides with shared handles.
• Sewing kit: Useful for quick fixes to clothing or bags during your trip.
• Hair clips
• White noise: Helps you sleep better in a hotel environment with unfamiliar sounds.
• Night light: Provides soft lighting for hotel rooms, especially useful for kids.
• Wet wipes: Great for quick cleanups, sticky hands, or wiping down surfaces.
• Pop-up hamper: Keeps dirty clothes organized and off the hotel floor.
• Lanyards: Hold park tickets, Express Passes, or room keys for quick access.
• Sunscreen: Essential for protecting your skin from the Florida sun.
• Waterproof cases: Protect electronics and valuables on water rides or during rain.
• Kindle/iPad/tablet: Convenient for reading, watching shows, or playing games during downtime.
• Games/playing cards: Fun for family time in the hotel room.
• Books/magazines: Perfect for relaxing poolside or unwinding before bed.
• Coke Freestyle cup, if purchased in the past: Reuse and reactivate for discounted refills at the parks.
• Power-Up Band for Super Nintendo World (from previous visit): Continue your game progress without buying a new one.
• Harry Potter interactive wand (from previous visit): Cast spells again in the Wizarding World without purchasing another wand.
• Queue entertainment: Keeps you and your group entertained during long ride waits.

Kid Items:

• Shirts
• Pants and shorts
• Costumes
• Underwear
• Shampoo/conditioner/bodywash
• Toothpaste/toothbrush/mouthwash/floss
• Hair brush
• Shoes
• Sandals/crocs
• Kids medicine
• Goggles
• Books
• Autograph book/pen
• Pillow
• Stuffed animals
• Swimsuites
• Toys/water toys
• Goggles
• Inflatable car seat

Baby Items:

• Bottles
• Baby food and snacks
• Sippy cups
• Diaper bag
• Diapers
• Swim diapers
• Bibs
• Baby wipes
• Pacifiers
• Pack n Play
• Stroller
• Car seat
• Baby monitor
• Blankets
• Toys
• Portable high chair
• Snack cups
• Outlet covers
• Pillows
• Stuffed animals
• Books
• Changing pad
• Sleep sacks
• White noise
• Diaper rash cream
• Baby carrier

Final Thoughts

Packing for Universal Orlando isn’t just about clothes and toiletries—it’s about being prepared for weather, long days, and the unique experiences the parks offer. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have everything you need for comfort, convenience, and fun. Pack smart, travel light where you can, and focus on making memories that will last long after your trip ends.