AD Guest Post
Are you about to head to Disneyland Paris for the first time? There’s plenty to think about before bundling your kids onto the plane.
Disneyland Paris holidays are magical. However, having what you need can make all the difference. Read on to get organised early so that everyone stays comfortable while you’re away.
Travel documents and pre-departure essentials
Before you pack a single suitcase, gather your paperwork.
Does everyone have a passport? Check that they all have at least three months of validity remaining beyond your planned departure date, as required for entry into the Schengen Area.
Pop your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) into your wallet too. This ensures you have the necessary healthcare during your stay.
Download the official Disneyland Paris app well in advance to link your park tickets and hotel bookings. Print physical backup copies so you have the details to hand if there are any digital glitches or dead batteries at the park gates.
Clothing for Disneyland Paris’s changeable weather
The climate in northern France mirrors the unpredictability of British weather, meaning clear morning skies make way for afternoon showers.
Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking layers that you can easily strip off as the afternoon temperature peaks. Put compact, reusable rain ponchos in your daypack to save having to buy them inside the park.
Think about footwear too. Swap style for comfort by choosing broken-in trainers over brand-new shoes so you’re ready to cover this vast space.
Remember to add high-factor sun cream and wide-brimmed hats to your packing list, as the queues for outdoor attractions offer very little shade from the midday sun.
Park bag essentials for parents
As well as packing ponchos, you’ll need to consider other smart additions for your bag. A high-capacity portable power bank will keep you charged up through character meet-and-greet photos and queue time check-ins on your phone.
Carry sturdy, refillable water bottles for the family, which you can top up at the numerous drinking fountains scattered across both parks to save money. Toss in plenty of familiar snacks like cereal bars and raisins to keep energy levels up during the mid-afternoon slumps.
As a parent, you’ll have this already, but just in case, include a pack of heavy-duty baby wipes, hand sanitiser and a handful of blister plasters to manage sticky hands and minor scrapes.
Family-specific items that make the day easier
Travelling with younger children demands a few extra tactical items to keep the peace during long queues. Here are some top tips:
- Bring your own collapsible pushchair from home… even if your child normally walks. Little legs tire quickly across the massive resort grounds. Tie a brightly coloured ribbon to the handlebar to help you spot your buggy instantly in the crowded pushchair parking zones outside major rides.
- Pack an official autograph book and a thick chunky pen before you travel. This saves you paying premium resort prices when meeting favourite characters.
- Toss a lightweight tablet or a small travel game into your bag… plus other comfort items that you know will distract them during the longer wait times for Peter Pan’s Flight.
