A day at the theme park in the summer can bring hours of fun for the whole family, unless you are carrying a backpack stuffed almost to its breaking point. If that’s the case, a day of fun can quickly turn into one of exhaustion and frustration. It’s vital when packing your bag for the day to only bring the essentials. Keep in mind that if you carry a backpack with you, you’ll want it to be small enough that it doesn’t weigh you down and also fits inside a locker when you ride the coasters.
So, what are the essentials? This guide is split up into the items you absolutely can’t forget — and items that you may find helpful if you do have a little extra room to play with. Jump right in! This guide is full of helpful items to have in your backpack for a trip to a theme park.
Theme park essentials:
Sunscreen: Be sure to find a spot for sunscreen in your backpack. You’re going to be spending the whole day, possibly multiple days, in the hot summer sun. Even if you put on sunscreen in the morning before you go, you’ll want to reapply throughout the day to ensure your skin doesn’t burn.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses are essential for a day at the theme park. You’ll be spending the whole day outside, often stuck directly in the sun while waiting in line.
Mini portable fan: When you’re walking around with the heat surrounding you, a mini portable fan is going to save the day. You can even get one that you wear around your neck if you don’t want to hold it.
Water bottle: It’s so important to stay hydrated while you are at an amusement park. Collapsible water bottles are perhaps the best way to go, as they take up very little space in your bag.
Slim wallet: You’ll want to have your license, credit card and some cash with you while at an amusement park, but a bulky wallet is less than ideal.
Snacks: Hungry children (and adults) are no fun at amusement parks. Let’s face it, snacks at amusement parks are costly and can add a large expense to your vacation bill.
Hand sanitizer: Amusement parks are dirty places — so hand sanitizer is a must-have, especially before snacking.
Lip balm: Chapped lips are not fun. This is such a small, easy item to add to your bag.
Hair clips and bands: Your hair is bound to be wind blown after a roller-coaster ride. Pack plenty of extra hairbands and clips.
Band-Aids: Accidents happen. If they do, you’ll be prepared with Band-Aids packed neatly in your bag.
Additional helpful items:
Individually wrapped ponchos: Check the weather forecast before you head to the park. If there’s rain in the forecast, you’re going to want a poncho.
Portable phone charger: This isn’t an absolute necessity, as your phone battery is likely to be strong enough to last you the whole day.
Sweatshirt: A sweatshirt isn’t a necessity, since most likely, it’ll be hot most of the day.
Waterproof phone case: If you’re going to be visiting a water park during your travels, a waterproof phone case is going to come in handy.
Extra pair of socks: This may not be something you think to pack, but you’ll be glad that you did.
Travel-sized deodorant: Speaking of smelling clean, a travel-sized deodorant can be a lifesaver when you are feeling sweaty at an amusement park.
Hat: To avoid a hot scalp and the sun beaming in your eyes, keep a hat in your bag.
Plastic bags: Plastic bags are a multi-use item that can be extremely helpful at amusement parks.
Motion sickness remedies: Just in case anyone you are traveling with gets motion sickness from all the rides, having some remedies packed with you isn’t a bad idea.
Cooling towel: Placing a cooling towel around your neck can fill you with relief from hot temperatures.
Packing for a day at the theme park doesn’t have to be stressful. By including these essential items in your backpack, you’ll be prepared for a fun and comfortable day out with your family. Enjoy your time at the amusement park!
