A trip to any of the Disney Parks isn't something one does on a whim unless they're a local. Any extended stay at Disney requires a suitcase full of dreams (and extra clothes), but experienced Park-Hoppers know that there's more to it than just bringing a pair of ears.
Sunblock, water bottles, and extra spending money are all valid and, at times, mandatory additions, but some days, you need a bit more than the bare necessities. People and weather can be unpredictable, and there's always the law of "if it can go wrong, it will." Take a look at these extras we like to bring on our trips.
Electrolyte Drink Mix
We can make jokes about Disney World's weird-tasting water all we like, but hydration is a necessity when storming the castle. A filtered water bottle is always a must-bring, and tap water is free at most establishments, but sometimes you need a little something extra to get through the day.
Drinks with high electrolytes like Gatorade or Liquid IV can rehydrate faster than just a tall glass of water (or five). A day at the parks can be quite a workout, and sometimes, thirst can sneak up on you. It's awfully hard to enjoy the magic if you're passed out from dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Gold Bond Body Powder
If there's one thing guests are going to do at any Disney Park, it's walk. The Walt Disney World Resort alone is nearly the size of San Francisco, so there's a lot of ground to cover. Along with a solid pair of shoes to schlep through the Magic Kingdom with, consider bringing a large bottle of Gold Bond Powder to ease the friction.
There's no sugar-coating it, but chafing happens, especially in Florida heat when you have to cross an entire theme park. One of the biggest mistakes first-timers make is not bringing the right "travel gear," shall we say? Do your thighs a favor and bring a bottle of body powder, apply often.
Digestion Supplements (Probiotics)
Any trip to a theme park is going to be loaded to the gills with greasy food. As much as we enjoy exotic fruits and light fare at places like EPCOT, the siren's song of Mickey waffles, turkey legs, and cronuts is hard to resist. With that much rich food, indigestion is bound to happen.
While mild nausea can be treated with ginger candy, mint, Peptol Bismol, and other such things, a good probiotic works wonders if taken before you get your grub on. Take it from someone who's been around the Food and Wine Festival a few times: a good glug of a strong kombucha goes a long way.
These are just a few odds and ends to throw in your bag. Keep coming back to Along Main Street for more tips!