What Should I Wear to Disney in Orlando?

Mandi Titus, Leaf Group Updated March 14, 2018

Trekking and tramping around Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida involves a lot more mileage than many tourists expect – and a lot more direct sunlight, too. A day at Magic Kingdom or any of the other Disney theme parks is tons of fun, but it's also pretty exhausting and often quite hot. The right clothing goes a long way toward keeping you comfortable and preventing injuries. In addition to selecting clothing for the four main theme parks, pack appropriate wear for Disney's two water parks. Avoid wearing any items that Disney doesn't allow in the parks.

Dressing for the Season

During summer, wear shorts and a breathable, light-colored T-shirt to help beat the heat. Put on comfortable, broken-in sneakers and a pair of well-fitting socks, or choose a pair of sandals that won't cause blisters after a long day of walking. Swimsuits are also an option, or at least wear fast-drying materials to accommodate water rides and splash pad features that help keep you cool. For a winter trip, wear clothing that is comfortable for the day's temperature – usually light pants and a long- or short-sleeved shirt, and bring along a sweatshirt or jacket for cooler winter evenings or an unusually cold day. Typically, dressing for warm weather works best in spring and fall, when daytime temperatures usually climb into the 70s or 80s, but without summer's oppressive humidity; a light layer to add at night is a good idea.

Other Things to Wear

That Florida sun beats down! And there's not as much shade around the Disney parks as you might hope. Apply waterproof sunscreen before heading into the theme parks to avoid sunburn, and remember to periodically reapply it throughout the day. Many Disney visitors wear a backpack or small travel bag to store items they might need during the day, such as a rain poncho for water rides or an afternoon shower, an extra pair of socks to ensure feet stay dry and comfortable, a pair of sunglasses for the bright sun and other essentials such as park tickets, a camera and extra sunscreen.

Water Parks

Visitors planning to explore either or both of Disney's two water parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon – must wear a bathing suit or other swim attire that doesn't have exposed rivets or metal. Disney apparently prefers that its guests don't scratch up its water slides. A cover-up or T-shirt and shorts may be worn in the water parks and the water, if desired. Flip flops or other water-friendly footwear are appropriate. Kids who aren't potty trained have to wear a swim diaper in the water at Disney's water parks.

Clothing to Avoid

it would certainly put a damper on a Disney vacation if you get turned away at the front gate. Disney has a strictly enforced dress code and may deny park entry to visitors who wear prohibited clothing. Items to avoid include masks and adult costumes that may be viewed as a representation of a Disney character, clothing or accessories with obscene pictures or language, and excessively torn clothing or clothes that otherwise expose more skin than is appropriate for a family environment. Also, cover up any potentially objectionable tattoos.

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This story is part of Travel Tips