Michael Turner
Recommendation: Carry a compact daypack, sling bag or clear tote no larger than about 22″ x 14″ x 9″ to avoid delays at the entrance. Large suitcases, full-size coolers and commercial gear are not permitted at turnstiles; such items must remain in a vehicle, be shipped via resort luggage service, or stored in on-site lockers.
All carried items are subject to security screening at every park entry point. Expect X-ray scanners and occasional hand searches; allow an extra 5–15 minutes at peak arrival times. Empty reusable bottles before reaching the bag-check line–refill stations are available past security. Keep prescription medications in original containers and positioned near the top of the bag for quick access.
Packing guidance: Pack only daily essentials: empty water bottle, small first-aid kit, sunscreen, identification, payment method, compact charger, light rain poncho and any infant supplies. Use clear zip pouches for electronics and small valuables to speed visual checks. Choose bags with easy-access compartments to present items without fully unpacking.
On-site storage options: coin-operated and electronic lockers are located near primary entrances and by certain attractions; sizes typically accommodate everything from wallets and phones to strollers or medium coolers. Merchandise pickup is offered at many retail locations–request packages be held for pickup to avoid carrying purchases through the day.
Prohibited items commonly encountered at checkpoints include weapons, alcohol, large ice chests, drones and self-balancing scooters. For specialty equipment (professional cameras, tripods or commercial audio devices), obtain the resort’s media permit prior to arrival or contact guest services for clarification.
Accepted carry items and gate procedures for theme-park admission
Carry a compact daypack (soft-sided, collapsible) roughly 16″ x 14″ x 8″ or smaller; security personnel inspect all carry-ons and may request that compartments be opened.
Pack only core items: government ID, credit/debit card, compact reusable water bottle, SPF 30+ sunscreen in travel-size tube, small first-aid kit, spare face covering, and prescription medication in original containers.
Leave professional camera rigs, tripods, drones, large coolers and folding chairs at the hotel or vehicle; several rides require empty hands or provide nearby lockers for bulky items.
Do not carry firearms, knives, fireworks, illegal drugs, glass containers or tethered selfie-sticks; such items are commonly refused at entrance checkpoints.
Use on-site lockers near major attractions for luggage overflow; locker sizes and hourly/daily fees vary, and electronics should be stowed separately to prevent damage.
If medical equipment requires a larger pack, present prescriptions or a physician’s note at security to minimize delays and allow staff to advise on storage options.
Reduce daytime load by routing purchases to the park’s package pickup or to hotel delivery; for non-visit home projects see how to build a garden fence to keep dogs out.
Gate-ready checklist: empty pockets, zip closed small pouches, keep tickets and reservation confirmations accessible, expect bag wands and random manual inspections when entering the parks.
Permitted bag dimensions and styles at theme-park security
Recommendation: choose a clear soft-sided bag up to 12″×6″×12″ for fastest screening, or a compact daypack/rucksack no larger than about 16″×12″×6″ to avoid delays at checkpoints; crossbody bags, waist packs, drawstring sacks and small insulated soft coolers are practical alternatives.
Official procedure: all personal bags undergo visual inspection and handheld/wanded screening. There is no publicly posted strict size cap for personal bags, but oversized luggage that obstructs screening or causes queuing issues may be refused or require additional inspection.
Allowed styles (typical): clear tote or pouch (see dimensions above), compact daypacks/rucksacks, sling/crossbody bags, fanny packs/waist bags, drawstring bags, soft-sided lunch coolers, diaper bags and hydration packs. Soft-sided designs that compress for the X-ray table speed processing.
Discouraged or problematic styles: large rolling suitcases, rigid hard-shell luggage, oversized duffels, and multi-compartment camera or gear cases that slow manual inspection. Bulky or heavily padded packs increase secondary checks.
Prohibited items often enforced at checkpoints: firearms, knives and other weapons, illegal drugs, fireworks or explosives, large glass containers and items that pose a safety hazard. Open alcohol and unusual chemical containers may be confiscated.
Packing tips: keep frequently inspected items (electronic devices, medications, baby supplies) near the top for quick access; transfer liquids to clear resealable bags when possible; remove metal belts or large metal accessories before screening to reduce pat-down likelihood.
Which items in your bag are prohibited or must be declared at park entry
Recommendation: leave firearms, knives, explosives, fireworks, illegal drugs (including recreational and medical marijuana), open alcohol, hard-sided coolers of commercial size, drones, professional tripods/monopods, hoverboards and combustible fuel canisters at lodging; these items are prohibited and subject to confiscation or denial of admission.
Prohibited specifics: firearms of any kind (concealed-carry permits not accepted), knives with fixed blades or tactical features, pepper spray/OC spray, blasting caps or pyrotechnics, illicit substances and drug paraphernalia, glass bottles and large quantities of alcohol, bulk coolers intended for group storage, drone equipment and remote-controlled aircraft, professional video rigs that block pedestrian traffic, oversized umbrellas with rigid, pointed tips that pose a hazard.
Items that must be declared at security: prescription medications in original labeled containers (keep a copy of the prescription), syringes and injectable medications (place in a clear plastic bag and carry a physician’s note), EpiPens and other emergency injectors, breast milk/formula/baby food (allowed but subject to inspection and testing), portable oxygen concentrators and compressed-gas cylinders (announce for visual and functional inspection), lithium batteries for mobility devices (declare for screening and possible testing), service animals and their containment gear (notify security on arrival and expect a brief screening).
Practical screening tips: keep medical items in an easily reachable, clearly labeled section of the bag; prepare a one-page inventory of medications with doses and prescribing physician contact; store sharp hygiene tools (nail clippers, disposable razors) inside protective cases; avoid glass containers and excessive quantities of liquid food; choose compact, safe umbrellas – consider a best vented large windproof umbrella to reduce the chance of being asked to stow or return it at the security line.
Rules for carrying food, baby supplies, and prescription medication in bags at theme parks
Keep prescription medication in the original pharmacy-labeled container and carry a copy of the prescription or a physician’s note for injectable drugs and controlled substances; store sharps in a rigid, labeled case and inform security staff during screening.
Limit quantities to amounts needed for the day plus a small spare; excess quantities may trigger additional questions or refusal. Over-the-counter and prescription liquids for personal use are allowed when clearly labeled; separate them in a clear resealable pouch for faster inspection.
Breast milk, infant formula and baby food are permitted in reasonable daily amounts and will be hand-inspected rather than subject to standard liquid-size limits. Pack pre-measured portions in clearly labeled containers or single-serve packages to speed screening and reduce handling.
Use a soft-sided insulated cooler or insulated pouch for temperature-sensitive items; frozen gel packs commonly pass screening when solid but may be opened for inspection. Avoid glass containers and bulky hard-sided coolers that may be excluded at security.
For emergency medications (EpiPens, rescue inhalers, epinephrine, injectable insulin), carry two doses if possible and place them in an easily accessible exterior pocket. If epinephrine autoinjectors or syringes are required, present them at the security checkpoint and keep supporting documentation handy.
If refrigeration or medical assistance is needed, locate the park First Aid station or guest service desk upon arrival; staff can advise on temporary storage options or medical support but cannot legally dispense prescription drugs on behalf of guests.
Organize items into separate, labeled pouches: one for medications, one for baby food/formula, and one for general snacks. This reduces handling time during manual inspection and lowers the chance of spills or cross-contamination.
Options for storing oversized bags: lockers, rentals, and Guest Relations guidance
Prioritize hotel bell service or official park lockers where available; measure oversized carry in advance to confirm fit with locker dimensions.
Park lockers and on-site alternatives
Locker availability, size and pricing vary by park; plan around these typical parameters.
- Common locker sizes: small ≈ 10×10×14 in, medium ≈ 12×15×16 in, large ≈ 18×18×24 in – very large duffel-sized items may not fit.
- Typical fees: $7–$20 per day depending on size and location; some parks use coin-operated units while others accept card payment via kiosk.
- Locker locations: usually adjacent to main entrances or security checkpoints; certain attractions provide separate short-term bins for loose items.
- Recommended items to avoid leaving: passport, wallet, electronics, prescription medication – use hotel safe for valuables and carry essential meds on person with documentation.
- Availability advice: arrive early if relying on a locker near park entry; high demand on peak days makes reservations impossible for most on-site units.
Off-site rentals and Guest Relations guidance
Use staffed services and official guest services for longer-term or unusual storage needs.
- Hotel bell service: complimentary holding before check-in and after checkout is common; tipping customary for assistance with multiple pieces.
- Third-party luggage storage: apps and local shops offer hourly/daily rates, typically $5–$15 per item per day; confirm insurance limits and lock policies before booking.
- Package transfer: merchandise purchased in-park is often eligible for on-site hotel delivery or pickup at a central location–verify cut-off times at point of sale.
- Guest Relations assistance: contact via official app or phone ahead of arrival to report oversized or unusual items; staff can advise on nearest storage option or temporary holding policies.
- Medical and mobility exceptions: present prescriptions or physician letters at Guest Relations for guidance on keeping medical devices or supplies with a companion rather than stored off-site.
- Lost-and-found protocol: report missing items with date, approximate time and location; follow official online form or visit Guest Relations desk to speed recovery.
Packed-for-the-day checklist: what to include in your park day bag and what to leave behind
Carry a slim day bag stocked with potable water, sun protection, phone power, basic first-aid, and weather gear to cover a full park operating day.
Recommended contents (quantities and specifics)
– Hydration: 20–32 oz reusable bottle, refillable at water stations; small collapsible bottle as backup.
– Power: 10,000–20,000 mAh portable charger, USB-C + Lightning cable, short cable for pocket use; charge overnight.
– Sun protection: SPF 30+ sunscreen tube (travel-size 3.4 oz or smaller), lip balm with SPF, packable wide-brim hat or foldable cap.
– Rain/weather: 1 disposable poncho per person (compact), lightweight packable rain jacket (compressible to pocket).
– First-aid & hygiene: 6–8 adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, single-dose pain reliever in original packaging, travel hand sanitizer (≤3.4 oz), 6–10 wet wipes, small roll of medical tape or blister cushions.
– Documents & money: photo ID, park tickets or reservation screenshot, credit/debit card, $20–50 cash in a small waterproof pouch.
– Electronics & protection: phone, compact camera or GoPro if preferred, microfiber cloth, waterproof phone pouch for water rides.
– Comfort items: sunglasses, small pack of tissues, hypoallergenic wipes for sticky hands, 1 pair of disposable earplugs if sensitive to noise.
– Food/snacks: 2–3 pre-wrapped snacks (granola bar, protein bar, fruit squeezes) that fit soft-sided containers; avoid bulky coolers.
Organization tips and morning prep
– Use three clear zip pouches: 1) electronics (charger, cables, battery), 2) health (sunscreen, first-aid, meds), 3) small valuables (ID, cards, cash). Label with masking tape.
– Place frequently needed items in the main compartment top pocket; store liquids upright in a leakproof pouch to prevent spills onto electronics.
– Pre-charge power bank to 100% and fully charge phone; leave unnecessary apps closed to conserve battery.
– For rainy forecasts, fold poncho into outer pocket for quick access; for heat, keep sunscreen and water in the top layer.
| Item | Why | Where to store |
|---|---|---|
| Reusable water bottle (20–32 oz) | Hydration without multiple purchases | Side pocket or upright internal sleeve |
| Portable charger (10,000–20,000 mAh) | Phone navigation, mobile tickets, photos | Electronics pouch, close to zipper |
| Sunscreen tube (≤3.4 oz) | Sun protection for long outdoor exposure | Health pouch, upright in leakproof bag |
| Disposable poncho / packable jacket | Quick protection for sudden rain | Outer pocket for fast access |
| Small first-aid kit | Minor cuts, blisters, headaches | Health pouch, bottom compartment |
| Phone in waterproof sleeve | Protects during water attractions | Top pocket for easy reach |
| Snacks (soft-sided) | Quick energy between meals | Inner mesh pocket |
Leave at home: oversized luggage, full-size tripods, non-folding coolers, bulky equipment that exceeds bag size or slows movement around the park; pack only what fits comfortably and keeps shoulders balanced for long walking days.
