"Be Prepared" at Disney Parks! Tips and Tricks For An Enjoyable Trip.

[-scottjames-]

When conquering Disney Parks the one thing that can be easily over looked is what you bring into the parks. Weather going commando with a backpack fit for a soldier, a tote bag, lightweight shoulder bag or maybe going classic with a fanny pack, these are tools that help us enjoy our trips and help make them memorable. With careful packing and preparation of these "tool-bags" they can really enhance your over-all experience in the parks. Below are some products and tips that I have found helpful and handy in the parks.

--BAGS/BACKPACKS--

Picking the right bag/backpack for exploring the parks is vital for making your time at the parks more enjoyable. Here is what I recommend split into three categories:

Backpacks:

1.Voltaic Converter Solar Backpack If you are going be bringing a backpack into to the parks, the Converter Solar Backpack is one of the best and technologically advanced backpacks I have found on the market. What makes this backpack "technologically advanced" is the embedded solar panel that is built right into the backpack which makes a perfect companion to the removable internal battery located inside the bag. The battery (charged by the solar panel or the A/C adaptor or a computer via USB) can be used to charge smart phones, tablets, small digital cameras, and ect, keeping you energized inside the parks.Lightweight and plenty of interior space I highly recommend this backpack for all outdoor activities. And don't forget to check out other solar products from Voltaic.
More info-http://http://www.voltaicsystems.com/converter.shtml
Video- http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ojwuuXS6OBk#!
More products from Voltaic- http://www.voltaicsystems.com/

2. Camelbak Helena 100 oz Hydration Pack If you have hydration in mind, you might find the Helena the right backpack for you when you want water on the demand. With enough interior space for the day, you'll find you don't compromise much space with the 100 ounce included water pack.
More info- http://www.amazon.com/CamelBak-Women...+Helena+100+oz
Video- http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5bWvOhJUWyM

3. High Sierra Loop Backpack The Loop Backpack is cost effective, lightweight and offers a lot of interior space making this a top choice with a budget in mind.
More info- http://www.amazon.com/High-Sierra-Ba...43021291&sr=1-

FANNY PACKS- If you don't need the interior space of a backpack, the lightweight and convenience of a fanny/waist pack will do the trick quite well. Here are a few I recommend:
1. High Sierra Ridgeline Lumbar Pack- http://www.amazon.com/High-Sierra-Ridgeline-Lumbar-Pack/dp/B007H86JU8/ref=pd_sbs_a_4
2. High Sierra Solo- http://www.amazon.com/High-Sierra-So...ef=pd_sim_sg_4
3. High Sierra Diplomat Lumbar Pack (Can also be used as a shoulder bag)- http://www.amazon.com/High-Sierra-Di...ref=pd_sbs_a_9

OTHER(totes, ect)
1. Port Authority Polyester Microfiber Cinch Pack (keeping it simple)- http://www.amazon.com/Port-Authority...drawstring+bag
2. Rick Steves Veloce Guide Bag (shoulder bag)- http://www.amazon.com/Rick-Steves-Ve...ref=pd_sbs_a_6
3. Rick Steves Hideaway Tote (my mom loves totes)- http://www.amazon.com/Rick-Steves-RS...ref=pd_sbs_a_7


--APPLICATIONS FOR SAMRTPHONES --
Thinking about diching your smart phone while at Disney? Think again! Your handy cellar device can become a handy tool while in the parks and a HUGE time saver.

1. Disney Mobile Magic (official Disney app)- This app is VERY useful! It's a MUST HAVE!
Park hours, attraction wait times, games, weather, and dining reservations are just a few things you can find in the app. It's time the ditch the park map and just use our cell phones!
More info:
Apple-http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/disne...500000336?mt=8
Android-https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...neyMobileMagic

2. The Weather Channel- This handy app is great for advance weather information and is a smart way to plan which parks to visit based on the weather.
More info:
Apple- http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-w...295646461?mt=8
Android- https://play.google.com/store/apps/d...dlYXRoZXIiXQ..

-- KEEPING MOBILE DEVICES POWERED--
When using cell phones, tablets, Ipods, MP3's and etc at the parks, chances are most of them wont make it through the day in one charge with extended use. That's where external batteries and solar chargers come for the rescue.

External Batteries

1. Tekkeon myPower ALL Plus MP3450i-If you want a powerful workhorse, the My Power is defiantly what you want. They are defiantly many external batteries out on the market, but I assure you this is the one you want!
More info: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/618847-REG/Tekkeon_MP3450I_myPower_ALL_Plus_MP3450i.html

2. Solar Solutions from Volteic and Solio- Mobile solar charging solutions.
Very cool products! http://www.solio.com/chargers/
I highly recommend this company.http://www.voltaicsystems.com/

More external battery/solar info and products:
Awesome Products! http://www.mophie.com/
Informational. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/indepth/portable-entertainment/hands-reviews/charge-differently-alternative-means-power-your-devices?cm_sp=Resource-_-inDepth-_-Charge_Differently_Alternative_Means_to_Power_up_

~OTHER COOL PRODUCTS~

1. Bobble-If you want to keep hydrated in the parks, the Bobble is the only way to go!
More info: http://www.waterbobble.com/bobble.html

2. Dry Bag- Keep the electronics dry.
More info: http://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Pou...rproof+pouches

~~~Conclusion~~~
I hope you find this helpful and interesting! I have found these products help improve the "Disney Experience" and can be used
for other vacations as well. If you have any other ideas and products that make life simple in the parks, please share below.
Don't forget to leave feedback and questions about these products or any similar ones.

Thanks,
-Scott James

[magicalmoments]

Was I the only one who immediately started singing "Be Prepared" from Lion King?

Anyone?

Great tips! I'm looking into the camelbak for my upcoming trip but I'm trying to use a side bag instead of a backpack (it's easier to get on/off rides)

[lizardlynn92]

Nice! And yes, I too saw "be prepared" and heard the beginning of the song play in my head lol

[froland_04-08]

I usually dont bring a bag into the park. I tend to leave things at places. If anything i wear lightweight cargo pants or shorts depending on the season.

And yes.....i automatically heard be prepared in my head

[DVCDad]

I'd highly recommend going bag free and buying something from Travel Clothing for Men and Women: Multi-pocket Vests, Jackets, Shirts, Pants. The jackets have tons of pockets, and they are evenly balanced so it doesnt seem like you're carrying as much as you are. Avoiding the bag check line is amazing, especially at busy times.

[froland_04-08]

Plus its alot quicker and easier to enter the parks without going through a bag check

[HauntedGabe]

I couldn't resist looking. I'd look and feel like a hippo if I started stuffing all my pockets. My tiny cross body purse works and I'd rather do bag check. Other than those traveling with babies I don't know why people need all the stuff they carry. Wonder what is next a pocket big enough to carry an IPad.

[DVCDad]

I couldn't resist looking. I'd look and feel like a hippo if I started stuffing all my pockets. My tiny cross body purse works and I'd rather do bag check. Other than those traveling with babies I don't know why people need all the stuff they carry. Wonder what is next a pocket big enough to carry an IPad.

Have you seen how much **** some people bring to teh parks? I have maybe 4 things in my pockets, even though they have a dozen or so, but passing teh bag lines is worth it.

[HauntedGabe]

Have you seen how much **** some people bring to teh parks? I have maybe 4 things in my pockets, even though they have a dozen or so, but passing teh bag lines is worth it.

I've never spent more than 10 minutes tops in a bag line. And yes, I wonder what they heck they are dragging in with them if they do not have a baby. My family rule became, if you don't want to hold it don't bring it or buy it.
We always made good use of room delivery for purchases too. I have glasses, room card, ticket, money and a credit or debit card, phone. Done.

On last day I take my backpack and lock it in a locker. Disney is having issues with breaking into cars as of late.

[DVCDad]

And yes, I wonder what they heck they are dragging in with them if they do not have a baby. My family rule became, if you don't want to hold it don't bring it or buy it.
We always made good use of room delivery for purchases too. I have glasses, room card, ticket, money and a credit or debit card, phone. Done.

Don't you just love the families that look like they're ready for a Himilayan expedition? They have so much stuff packed into a stroller (or even better a double stroller) that they could pass for homeless people?

Less is more people.

[ohiodisneydad]

My wife has to carry lots of meds for her various conditions so she feels the need to carry a backpack. On our next trip, I'm loading up my cargo pockets with everything and carrying a small knapsack in my pocket too. Once we cross over she can load it up with her meds.

I have to carry Tylenol and migraine meds. It's inevitable that I'll get one on a vacation. Even being on vacation, stress seems to find me.

[HauntedGabe]

My wife has to carry lots of meds for her various conditions so she feel the need to carry a backpack. On our next trip, I'm loading up my cargo pockets with everything and carrying a small knapsack in my pocket too. Once we cross over she can load it up with her meds.

I have to carry Tylenol and migraine meds. It's inevitable that I'll get one on a vacation. Even being on vacation, stress seems to find me.

I agree, medical conditions are in the same category as a MUST as is a diaper bag for a baby.

[froland_04-08]

I've never spent more than 10 minutes tops in a bag line. And yes, I wonder what they heck they are dragging in with them if they do not have a baby. My family rule became, if you don't want to hold it don't bring it or buy it.
We always made good use of room delivery for purchases too. I have glasses, room card, ticket, money and a credit or debit card, phone. Done.

On last day I take my backpack and lock it in a locker. Disney is having issues with breaking into cars as of late.

I helped at bag check at EPCOT before. During the christmas season and the summer peak, bag check can be a longer wait than the Seas with Nemo & Friends..... even with the extra help you can stand there for 20 minutes to 30 minutes on some days

[HauntedGabe]

I helped at bag check at EPCOT before. During the christmas season and the summer peak, bag check can be a longer wait than the Seas with Nemo & Friends..... even with the extra help you can stand there for 20 minutes to 30 minutes on some days

Through the years I've seen it get better, more efficient and a good chunk of the CMs better trained. On my last trip there was one CM at DHS, that was beyond slow. Betting she didn't last on the morning shift anyhow.

What years did you do bag check?

[froland_04-08]

Through the years I've seen it get better, more efficient and a good chunk of the CMs better trained. On my last trip there was one CM at DHS, that was beyond slow. Betting she didn't last on the morning shift anyhow.

What years did you do bag check?

Xmas 2006, Spring Break 2007