When you’re headed to Disney World, there are A LOT of different bags on the market you can bring. Or, perhaps, you’re just wanting to grab one you’ve already got at home, since you’ve already spent so much money on the vacation itself.
We’ve tried out tons of different bags in the parks, and keep our eyes peeled to see what other guests around Disney World are using as well. What we’ve noticed is that there’s a big group of people who prefer to use crossbody bags, and another group that feels backpacks are the only way to go. So, which is better? We’ve done our research and asked our team of experts what they think, and their answers? Well, it may not be what you think!
Loungefly Backpacks
When it comes to using a backpack in Disney World, there are two major ways we see people go, and the first is using mini Loungefly backpacks around the park. Bags like the Fantasia Convertible Loungefly Backpack & Tote Crossbody Bag are very useful, because you can wear them in numerous ways, but the traditional Loungefly bags are mini backpacks. That means you’ve got two straps that go over your shoulders, some of them have water bottle pockets (which are a HUGE plus and very necessary), but there’s one big caveat — they leave a MASSIVE back sweat stain on your shirt during those warmer seasons.
For many guests, that doesn’t matter, because having more space in their backpack, plus those water bottle pockets (or just space to put it inside), is more important. Now, we wouldn’t say that Loungefly bags are great for those who are attempting to bring necessities for the whole family, because there’s usually not *that* much space. However, if you yourself know you bring some more medication than normal with you, your portable chargers are bigger than most, or you’re looking to carry items for yourself and perhaps one other person. We can see why many people think they’re a little cumbersome, but with so many cute Loungefly designs out there, we also understand wanting to show off the ones you own in the parks!
Larger Backpacks
Now, some of our team members like to head into the parks to write from the resort, and that often means it’s essential to bring a laptop, as well as some more chargers than normal. In that case, they carry a larger backpack, such as the Fjallraven Kanken, and we know lots of families use this too! A backpack this size is especially helpful if you need to carry around lots of snacks for yourself or kiddos to save money, wet wipes, additional tech, or games for yourself or your family to stay entertained in long lines. If it’s more important for you to truly have all you need in a bag that easily fits it all, versus having a smaller bag and wishing you had items with you, this is the way to go.
Sling Bags/Crossbodies
Want something smaller, that won’t make you sweat obscenely, and is stylish? A crossbody bag like the ODODOS Sling Bag is a fantastic way to go. This one has tons of pockets to fit our essentials without it being too large and hard to close, but there’s no water bottle holder, which is a big negative for some people. However, if you grab a carabiner, you can attach it to the bag fairly easily, so that’s something to keep in mind.
We find crossbodies, especially slightly larger ones, easy to organize with what we need, so we’re not struggling to find our cards in line, our sunscreen to reapply, or a wet wipe to wipe down our table. Again, if you know you’re traveling as a family and you need to carry around lots of essentials for everyone, this isn’t going to be the best fit, but if it’s just you or everyone has their own bag, this is a style to consider. For myself, I used to use a backpack a few years ago, and now, I stick with one sling bag that works well for me!
Honorary Mention: Belt Bags
A member of our team made a good point about crossbody bags, saying that, as you walk and move, it’ll make your way to your back eventually, potentially resulting in some back sweat of its own, which is why Belt Bags are also a good style to consider. These are really the best if you know you don’t need to bring a lot with you into the parks, or you’re wearing an outfit that has plenty of pockets to help out with storage. These are especially great for Universal, as anything larger than a belt bag isn’t allowed on most rides. There are lockers available, and most of them are free as long as you have a small bag that fits in them (larger lockers do cost extra), but if you’ve got a belt bag, that’s an additional step you don’t have to take!
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