Last year I traveled over 50,000 miles! That’s a lot of details to keep track of, and a lot of packing and unpacking. I have collected a lot of travel gadgets lately and find myself using the same gear time after time. Everything on this list is something I use and find worthwhile.

Travel gadget gift ideas too

By the way, this is also an excellent collection of gift ideas for every traveler. Whether you’re shopping for stocking stuffers, Easter basket fillers, or the perfect wedding present, be sure to read through to find some great travel gadget gift ideas.

And, the list might be slightly more than 33 things, even though that’s what the headline says. I’m updating as I go, so when I find something new and wonderful, it will be added here. And if it turns out to be less than useful I’ll drop it from the recommendations.

I’m including shopping links for your convenience. If you do click through and make a purchase, Go Informed receives a small commission. Thank you for your support.

Travel organization gadgets and bags

When it comes to travel gadgets, I always start with how to organize everything. Here are the tools I use to keep my stuff together and accounted for.

Luggage accessories

Packing cubes

Not only do they keep your stuff neatly organized and tucked away, compression packing cubes make big stuff small. They are great for packing bulky items, like a puffy coat, or for making your stack of t-shirts about half as tall as usual.

Just put your clothes in the cube, zip it up, then zip the second zipper to scrunch down the sides of the cube. The whole thing stays flat and tidy.

I really like the Thule compression bags because they’re easy to pack and the sides are slightly stiff, which means less squishing of my clothes. The Eagle Creek brand is also a good choice.

Buy it on Amazon here

Find it at Best Buy here

Luggage cup holder

I always seem to be juggling everything at the airport. And I like coffee. This nifty cup holder folds down flat for storage, then attaches to the handle of my luggage with velcro.

It’s got two good-sized cup holders and an extra pocket for a phone. Perfect for when there’s no place to set my cup but I need a free hand. I keep it handy in the outside pocket of my suitcase.

Find it on Amazon here

Unique luggage tags

Don’t get your bag mixed up! A bright luggage tag that’s different from all the others will distinguish your suitcase. We use these orange initial tags.

Find it on Amazon here

AirTags

If you want to know if your bag is really lost, or just somewhere in the same airport as you, an Apple AirTag is a great travel gadget. Just toss it in your bag and use your phone to see where it is.

Find it on Amazon here

Find it at Best Buy here

Travel bag scale

Do you push the limit on allowed baggage weight? Know if you’re over-the-line by bringing a little bag scale. This nifty device has really come in handy for our scuba trips when we’re packing a bunch of gear.

Find it on Amazon here

Bottles and bags for the small stuff

Mesh bags

A friend turned me on to mesh bags, and now I use them for practically everything. Instead of an opaque makeup bag, I like the mesh because it’s easy to see what’s inside. I have them in multiple shapes and sizes so I can split supplies up.

Find it on Amazon here

Collapsible bottles

When you fly carry-on, that quart Ziploc bag is pretty darn small. Why take up space with a half-full bottle? These nifty containers collapse to fit the volume inside.

Find it on Amazon here

Ziplocs

From getting through TSA, to packing those leftover Disneyland beignets, to carrying a wet swimsuit – it’s hard to beat the utility of a quart-size ziploc bag. A few of these are always in my suitcase, and in my park bag.

Find it on Amazon here

Bags and backpacks

Travel backpack

Keep everything organized and your hands free with a nice travel backpack. I love my PacSafe backpack because it’s stylish, durable, and secure. This bag has all kinds of anti-theft features and it looks great.

Find it on Amazon here

Drawstring backpack

Sometimes you just need an extra bag, and a lightweight drawstring backpack really comes in handy.

When it’s empty this bag folds down to almost nothing, so it’s easy to toss in a purse or a pocket. Perfect for a long day of touring when I inevitably need something to carry my jacket or souvenirs. These are especially useful for theme park trips.

Find it on Amazon here

Did you know that thieves are less likely to steal a brightly-colored bag? That’s because it’s so easy to spot when they run away!

Travel purse

I find this PacSafe crossbody bag perfect for day-to-day touring. The flap unfolds to make the bag bigger when I need it, and the the wire-reinforced straps have locking clips so I can attach it to a chair without worry about purse-snatchers. Plus it looks good wherever I go.

Find it on Amazon here

Carry-on suitcase

In a past life, I worked in a store where we sold suitcases. Everybody has a different idea about what’s important, but there are a few common considerations.

If you choose a hard-sided case it will probably open down the middle, which means you can pack things in two sections. A soft-sided case usually opens on one end, which makes it easier to prop open for packing and unpacking.

If outside pockets are important to you, choose a soft-sided bag. Plus soft-sided bags have some give to them, so it’s easier to squeeze one into an overhead bin.

The bag I travel with is this Briggs & Riley model. It meets carry-on size regulations, and it expands when I need a little extra room. It has probably flown 100,000 miles by now and still looks and rolls great.

Find it on Amazon here

Travel gadgets for charging and lighting

How many times have you had to crawl under a hotel bed to plug in your phone? And how about trying to find your way to the bathroom in the dark? Charge your devices like you own the place, and ward off the dark, with these nifty travel gadgets.

Power strip

Stop searching for outlets behind the bed. Bring a small power strip and keep all your devices in one place.

Note that if you’re cruising, power strips with surge protectors are generally not allowed on board. So be sure your travel power station doesn’t have a surge protector built in.

Find it on Amazon here

Foreign power outlet adapters

If you’re traveling overseas, this is one of the most important travel gadgets you’ll need. You can charge your phone all over the world, if you have the right adapter to plug it into the wall.

Buy multiples of these little adapters. They’re super-easy to mislay and you really can’t do anything without them.

Find it on Amazon here

Nightlight

Travel with a plug-in nightlight and find your way to the bathroom in the dark.

Find it on Amazon here

My go-to travel clothing pieces

Wardrobe could of course be an entire post by itself, but here are a few pieces I constantly wear for travel.

Scarf

An indispensable travel gadget, a scarf is a fun accessory that can also be that last layer you need, or your naptime pillow. Choose one that opens up to a shawl, so you can use it as a blanket too.

Find it on Amazon here

Hoodie

A nice hoody is super versatile. Wear it by itself or under another jacket. It goes with almost anything.

The hoody I bring every time is this one from Lululemon. It’s lightweight but still really warm, the sleeves double as gloves, and the pockets have zippers. I also like how stretchy it is – I have worn it under and over almost anything.

Find this Lululemon hoody here

They also make a version without a hood here.

Puffer coat

A puffer coat is super warm and also super packable.

Find it at Lululemon here

RipSkirt

The wrap-around skirts from Hawaii’s RipSkirt are my favorite travel companion. Not only are they stylish and comfortable, they fasten with infinitely adjustable velcro. So my skirt fits perfectly at the beginning and the end of a cruise!

Plus they pack down to practically nothing. Available in 4 different lengths and lots of fun colors and patterns.

Find your RipSkirt here

Compression socks

Reduce the risk of blood clots by wearing compression socks on long flights. These aren’t your grandpa’s “supp hose” – modern compression socks are fashionable and comfortable. (Once you get them on).

Find it on Amazon here

Once you get there, compression socks for running are also excellent for travel. Especially if you’ll be on your feet a lot. Here’s a brand I wear.

Travel personal care gear

These are a few of the ways I go carry-on and still feel like I’m put-together on a trip.

Solid makeup

For me, the hardest part of packing light is getting all my gels and liquids into that quart-size bag. Using powder-based makeup is part of the solution. You can eliminate a few more gels by using pencil-style lipstick and powder sunscreen.

Find it on Amazon here

Tap secret dry shampoo

Banish dingy travel hair with this nifty little powder. Tap Secret dry shampoo is easy to carry and really works.

Find it on Amazon here

Small meds

Make your own mini travel first-aid kit. Include a few bandaids, Imodium, and at least one type of pain reliever.

Find it on Amazon here

Emergen-C

Travel can really zap a body. Bring along a few Emergen-C packets to help replenish your immune system.

Find it on Amazon here

Compact hair dryer

This one’s a maybe. If I’m traveling domestically (so there’s no problem with outlets or voltage), and if there’s room in my suitcase, I bring along my compact hair dryer. This one is small, light, quiet, and quick – and much better than whatever I’ll find in a hotel room.

Find it on Amazon here

Packing tip: Don’t completely unpack your toiletry bag when you get home. Even better, refill the supplies right away and store everything back in the bag for next time.

PPE

Because the last thing you want to do is get there and be sick, it’s a good idea to take a few preventative measures when traveling. Even if you don’t plan to wear a mask for the whole flight, it’s good to have one handy in case your neighbor can’t stop coughing and sneezing.

Mask

If I know I’ll have to wear it for awhile, I use a mask with straps that go ahead my head, not my ears.

Find it on Amazon here

Antibacterial wipes

Always have a few antibacterial wipes handy, ’cause airplane surfaces are gross.

Find it on Amazon here

Earplugs

Sleeping on a plane or a train is hard enough without listening to everyone else snoring. Not to mention noisy neighbors in your hotel. Be sure to have some earplugs in your travel kit.

I like these silicone earplugs because they compress to really stay in my ears, even if I’m laying down.

Find it on Amazon here

Entertaining travel gadgets

I am all about unplugging when I get there, but for the flight and at the airport, these are the gadgets I have in my backpack.

iPad

It’s a movie theater, photo editing studio, and all-around communicator. The ipad ranks as one of my top travel gadgets.

Find it on Amazon here

Headphones

Whether you prefer over-the-ear or earbuds, good noise-cancelling headphones are a must for any flight.

Find it on Amazon here

Kindle

Carry 100 books if you want. A kindle is the perfect travel companion. Lightweight and able to download new books on the fly, you can take an entire bookstore to the beach.

This is one of my top travel-oriented gift suggestions. If they already have a Kindle, get them an Amazon gift card or a Kindle unlimited subscription.

Find it on Amazon here

Non-digital entertainment

When the batteries run low, or you just can’t look at a screen anymore, turn to a card game. A simple game like Uno is easy to learn and can be played even in the most jet-lagged state. It also makes an excellent stocking stuffer.

Find it on Amazon here

At-home gadgets

Label maker

You know you’ve always wanted one! This travel gadget stays at home. Get yourself a label maker and never wonder what’s in that mystery bottle again.

Find it on Amazon here

Where do you want to go next?

From tropical travel to worldwide theme parks, explore your next adventure here.

The tropics:

• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Wakatobi, Indonesia

60-second theme park quick guides:

• Disney World
• Universal Orlando
• Paris Disneyland

Plus more travel tips from the Go Informed newsletter:

• Best travel phone apps
• How to improve your next flight

This post contains affiliate links.

The post 33 Nifty travel gadgets to get now appeared first on Go Informed.

Gift ideas for Bora Bora travelers

Underwater Camera

Snorkeling and scuba are huge attractions in Bora Bora. If your newlyweds are planning to spend time in the water, give them a gift to capture the moment.

A point-and-shoot underwater camera can be lots of fun, even just for playing in the surf. And a GoPro makes it easy to get video of adventures both in and out of the water.

Here are some underwater camera suggestions from Amazon:

• GoPro
• FujiFilm FinePix
• Olympus Tough

Kindle e-reader

Put an entire library in the palm of their hand. A Kindle can hold thousands of books and it’s easy to add more on-the-go. Bora Bora has no bookstores and even if it did, the selection would likely be only in French.

Not sure if they’ve already got a Kindle? Give them an Amazon gift card instead. They can use the funds to buy more e-books, or get the e-reader they’ve always wanted.

Click here to shop Amazon Kindle

Packable backpack

Super handy, but taking up almost no luggage space, a packable backpack is a great gift for any Bora Bora traveler. A drawstring backpack is perfect for taking essentials to the beach or out on a tour boat for the day.

For a fun gift presentation, fill the backpack with reef-safe sunscreen, lip balm, and other beach essentials.

Here are some packable backpack suggestions from Amazon:

• Eddie Bauer Stowaway
• Notabag 3-in-1
• VenturePal Lightweight

Travel bluetooth speaker

Have you seen those amazing Bora Bora overwater bungalows? Your honeymooners need some tunes to go with that setting!

Look for something small and lightweight that produces decent sound. Since it’ll probably go to the beach, water-resistance is nice too.

Here are some travel bluetooth speaker suggestions from Amazon:

• EWA portable speaker
• Bose Soundlink Flex
• JBL Clip

French Polynesian currency

Of course one of the best honeymoon gifts you can give is cash. Take it up a notch by giving them the local French Polynesian currency. Check with your bank or your local AAA office, where you can order foreign currency for a small fee.

Want more travel gift ideas?

Don’t miss my list of top travel gadgets and gear! Great gifts for every traveler here.

Bora Bora Quick Guide

Want to know what it’s like to visit Bora Bora? Here’s a 60-second quick look:

Click here to listen to my Go Informed podcast episode about Bora Bora

More tropical travel tips from Go Informed

Considering a trip to the tropics? Be sure to check out my posts about these oceanic destinations:

• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Rangiroa, French Polynesia
• Wakatobi, Indonesia
• Big Island Hawaii, USA
• Bonaire, Caribbean

This post contains affiliate links

The post 5 Fabulous Wedding Gift Ideas for Bora Bora Honeymooners appeared first on Go Informed.

Today’s episode is loaded with tips to help you find the perfect gift for your favorite Orlando vacationer. These ideas can work for Christmas, birthday presents, wedding gifts, or any occasion when you want to get something for a Disney World or Universal Orlando traveler. Be sure to listen to the episode for more details, and read on for shopping links and all my Universal Orlando and Disney World traveler gift suggestions.

Go Informed Podcast episode 39

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 39. Click the Play button to listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Universal Orlando and Disney World Traveler Gift Ideas

Here are a bunch of simple and useful gift ideas for the Disney and Universal traveler in your life. Consider including these as part of a big Disney vacation reveal.

Looking for more small gift ideas? Be sure to check out my Disney stocking stuffer guide here.

A quick note that the links below are affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission on any purchases you make, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Go Informed!

Disney and Universal Guidebooks

Books make excellent gifts for any Disney World or Universal Orlando traveler. Get these guidebooks to help Orlando-bound travelers get excited and ready for their adventure:

• Birnbaum’s Offical Walt Disney World
• Birnbaums’ Official Disneyland
• The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World
• The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando
• The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland

Disney history books

If you’re shopping for a Disney parks geek, these books make excellent gifts:

Find on Amazon: The Disneyland Story

Find at Target: The Disneyland Story

Find on Amazon: Walt Disney, the Triumph of the American Imagination

Find on Amazon: The Haunted Mansion: Imagineering a Disney Classic

Find at Target: The Haunted Mansion: Imagineering a Disney Classic

For Universal Orlando travelers, Harry Potter books

Find on Amazon: Illustrated Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Find at Target: Illustrated Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Movies that inspired theme park lands and rides

Watching the movies before you go is a fun way to get ready for a Disney World or Universal Orlando trip. As a gift, you can get someone physical DVDs or a subscription to a streaming service like Amazon Prime Video.

Here are a few resources for which movies to watch before a Disney or Universal theme park vacation:

• Movies that inspired the attractions and lands at Universal Orlando
• From my newsletter: Movies to watch before your theme park vacation
• From my newsletter: More movies to watch before your theme park vacation

Bonus tips delivered straight to your inbox! Join the mailing list to get my twice-monthly e-newsletter.

Shoes for going the distance in the parks

For most people, the best shoes to wear at Disney and Universal are running shoes. These can be expensive, so giving them as a gift can be a really thoughtful idea.

Get them at Zappos: Brooks running shoes

Marathon-worthy socks

If giving someone shoes seems too complicated, consider socks. Good socks make a huge difference in someone’s comfort level at Disney World or Universal Orlando. Look for compression socks that are designed for distance running.

Find on Zappos: compression running socks

Fitness tracker for trip training

Theme park visitors walk miles every day, so training for the trip is always a good idea. A fitness tracker like a Fitbit makes a really nice gift for someone getting ready for an Orlando vacation.

Find it on Amazon: Fitbit Versa 4

Find it at Target: Fitbit Versa 4

Especially for wedding gifts: Disney household Items

Are you shopping for a Disney honeymoon couple who’ve registered for a waffle iron? Mickey waffles are one of the most iconic treats in the Disney parks, so when you give a Mickey waffle maker it brings the trip home for your newlyweds.

Find it on Amazon: Mickey Mouse waffle maker

Get them a cool park bag

A themed backpack or bag is great for every Disney or Universal traveler. Fun bags range from luxury purses to simple drawstring backpacks.

Find it on Amazon: Disney Loungefly backpack

Find it on Amazon: Mickey Mouse drawstring backpack

Fill the bag with park essentials

You can fill the bag with fun park supplies and small gifts to make it into a very special Orlando traveler gift package. Here’s my list of small Disney and Universal traveler gifts, perfect to fill a backpack, stocking, or Easter basket.

Orlando summer weather gear

Summer weather gear is a must-have for anyone heading to Orlando between May and October. These can make fun stocking stuffers, or a series of gifts to open as part of a big vacation surprise reveal.

You can read my entire Orlando traveler summer gear guide here.

Some of the top summer items are:

Ponchos

Find it on Amazon: Totes poncho

Find it at Target: multi-pack clear disposable ponchos

Sunscreen

Find it on Amazon: Sun Bum travel-size sunscreen

Find it at Target: Sun Bum travel-size sunscreen

Sunglasses

Find it at Target: kids’ Disney sunglasses

Matching character PJs

If new PJs are a Christmas tradition, check out the character options at Hanna Andersson. From Marvel, to Elf, to Jack Skellington, there are lots of themed pajamas to choose from – for the whole family.

Find these Jack Skellington PJ’s at Hanna Andersson here.

External Battery Pack

Today almost everything related to park touring involves an app, and it’s easy to end up with a dead phone battery. Save their day by giving your theme park traveler an external battery pack.

Find it on Amazon: External battery pack

Find it at Target: External battery pack

Gift cards

Give them the gift of spending money! A gift card to use in the parks is a wonderful way to share the joy of a special trip.

Find it at Target: Disney gift card

More Disney World and Universal Orlando Gift Ideas

Want more ideas for what to give your theme park traveler? Check out these other posts on GoInformed.net:

• 33 nifty travel gadgets to get now
• Disney vacation stocking stuffer ideas
• Disney World and Universal Orlando summer gear guide
• Universal Orlando Easter basket ideas
• Disney World Easter basket ideas

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Universal Orlando and Disney World Traveler Gift Guide appeared first on Go Informed.

There’s no way around it: summertime in Orlando is hot, humid, and rainy. If you want to tour the theme parks like a pro, it’s important to be prepared for Florida’s extreme weather. In today’s episode I recommend some essential Orlando summer gear that you can purchase before your trip.

Having a few basics along when you visit Disney World or Universal Orlando in the summer months will help keep you cool and dry, even in the most extreme conditions. Listen to the episode to find out why I recommend bringing these supplies along on your summertime visit to the Orlando theme parks.

These are the show notes for episode 24. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

Disney World and Universal Orlando summer heat gear

The weather in Orlando can be hot almost any time of year, but especially during the summer months of May-September. Here are some things that will make your Disney World or Universal Orlando vacation much more comfortable in the summer heat and humidity.

Personal fan

Bring a fan to help keep you cool walking around the parks. There are some amazing electronic options, like the powered neck fan above. Or go low-tech with a classic fabric fan, like below.

Find these on Amazon here:

• Personal neck fan
• Classic folding fan

Disposable cooling body wipes

Click here to find cooling body wipes on Amazon

Sun protection

Click here to find this travel sunscreen kit on Amazon

Cooling bandana

Dip this bandana in ice water then tie around your neck for a very refreshing cool-down.

Click here to find this bandana in lots of colors on Amazon

Disney World and Universal Orlando summer rain gear

Buy a poncho before you go

Bring two ponchos for everyone in your group, so you can leave one to dry in your room and take a fresh one along in the morning. Look for a poncho that comes in a bag so you can easily carry it, even after it gets wet.

If you want to go with a Disney theme, you can buy Mickey & Minnie ponchos ahead of time, instead of paying the park price.

Find these ponchos on Amazon:

• Totes ponchos
• Mickey & Minnie ponchos

Microfiber towel

A camping towel is an excellent addition to your theme park gear bag. Use it to wipe down wet ride seats, clean up spills, and dry off wet ponchos.

Click here to find this towel on Amazon

Extra shoes and socks

Good shoes and comfortable socks are a must for your Orlando theme park vacation. Bring two pairs of shoes and lots of socks. This way if your feet get wet you can switch shoes and socks and keep going.

Click here to view on Amazon:

• Running shoes
• Moisture-wicking socks

You will walk a LOT on your Orlando vacation. Find out how far and get my training tips here.

Carry a weather app

Make sure you have a good weather app on your phone so you can keep an eye on the forecast during your park day. I like the Weather Channel app because it’s got an hour-by-hour forecast and radar.

Check out this post for my top travel gadgets and gear, perfect for any traveler in your life.

More tips for touring Disney World and Universal Orlando in the summer

Here are my other weather-related posts:

• Top 5 Orlando Summer Weather Tips
• Disney World weather tips
• Universal Orlando weather tips
• Theme park extreme weather tips

Join the mailing list

Get twice-monthly bonus tips delivered straight to your inbox. Join the GoInformed mailing list here.

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Disney World and Universal Orlando Summer Gear Guide appeared first on Go Informed.

An Easter basket is a fun way to get someone excited for a Universal Orlando vacation, or even to reveal a surprise trip. It’s especially exciting if the Easter Bunny delivers during your Florida adventure. Here are some ideas to help you create a charming Universal Orlando Easter basket.

These items also make great stocking stuffers or additions to any type of Universal Orlando gift basket.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 21. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Want to add some Disney-themed items to your Easter basket? Here’s my post with tips for making a Disney World themed basket.

Use an Easter themed bag if you’ll be traveling

Unless you’ve got a suitcase that works like Hermoine’s magical purse, a basket will not be convenient for travel. Choose a festive gift bag instead.

Buy on Amazon: Easter gift bag

Buy on Amazon: Fabric bunny bucket bag

Theme Park Supplies to Put in Your Universal Orlando Easter Basket

Add some practical supplies to your basket. For more ideas, be sure to check out my Orlando summer gear guide here.

Poncho

If you’re preparing for a summertime trip to Orlando, you’ll need to pack a poncho. Add a brightly colored kids-sized poncho to their basket.

Buy on Amazon: Totes Poncho

Drawstring backpack

Add a packable backpack to your Universal Orlando Easter basket – or use the backpack as the basket!

Buy on Amazon: Harry Potter drawstring backpack

Put some sun protection in your Easter basket

Everybody needs sunscreen and SPF lip balm. Pick up some travel-size supplies and use them to fill out your Universal Orlando themed Easter basket.

Buy on Amazon: Travel sunscreen and lip balm

Books for your Universal Orlando Easter basket

Universal Orlando actually has lots of attractions and lands inspired by books. Add some Harry Potter paperbacks or Dr Seuss titles to your basket.

Buy on Amazon: Harry Potter books

Yep, there is a Cat in the Hat ride at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure!

Buy on Amazon: Dr Seuss books

Movies too

Especially at Universal Studios Florida, movies are a big inspiration for lands and attractions. Check out this post for my complete list of movies and TV shows that inspired the rides at Universal Orlando.

Then pick up a couple of DVDs to put in your basket. Maybe add some microwave popcorn too.

Buy on Amazon: Despicable Me

Universal Orlando themed toys

Every Easter basket needs a few toys. How about a golden snitch fidget spinner, a tiny minion with a jetpack, or a cuddly friend?

Buy on Amazon: Golden snitch fidget spinner

Buy on Amazon: Jetpack minion

Buy on Amazon: Thing 1 plush doll

Shirts to wear to the parks

Check out the Go Informed merch store for lots of fun themed shirts perfect for your day at Universal Orlando.

Click to shop for park shirts and more at the Go Informed TeePublic store

Theme park treats

Did you know you can get Bernie Botts Every Flavour Beans and Chocolate Frogs delivered? Click the image below to shop.

Buy on Amazon: Harry Potter sweets

More theme park gift ideas

Here on GoInformed.net I’ve got lots of theme park gift and gear suggestions. Be sure to check out these other posts and podcast episodes:

• 33 nifty travel gadgets to get now
• What to put in a Disney World Easter basket
• Universal and Disney World traveler gift guide
• Orlando summer gear guide

More Universal Orlando tips

Check out more of my tips for your Universal Orlando vacation, including:

• Universal Orlando hotel guide
• Universal Orlando first-timer tips
• How to combine Universal Orlando and Disney in one vacation

The Go Informed Podcast

The Go Informed: Build a Better Vacation podcast is loaded with on-the-go tips to help you have the best vacation ever. Listen on your favorite podcast app.

Bonus theme park tips, delivered straight to your inbox

Join the mailing list to get my twice-monthly bonus tips newsletter. Click here to sign up now.

This post contains affiliate links.

The post How to Make a Universal Orlando Easter Basket appeared first on Go Informed.

A Disney World Easter basket is a great way to celebrate an upcoming trip, even if your vacation is planned for later in the year. And, if you’re lucky enough to be at Disney World on Easter, these ideas will help the Easter Bunny deliver a fun Disney surprise.

These ideas all work great for stocking stuffers or any other type of Disney World gift basket too.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 20. Click below to hear lots more detail about this topic – or search for Go Informed: Build a Better Vacation on your favorite podcast app.

Want some ideas for a Universal Orlando themed Easter basket? Check out these ten suggestions.

The basket

Let’s start with the basket itself. If you’ll be traveling on Easter, bring a fun Easter themed bag to use as your basket.

Buy on Amazon: Festive gift bag

Buy on Amazon: Easter Bunny Bucket Bag

Park supplies for your Disney World Easter Basket

You can add practical gifts to your Disney themed Easter basket. Here are a few items every Disney World traveler needs.

Poncho

If you’re planning a summertime trip to Orlando, you’ll definitely want to bring a poncho. Take your pick from lots of colors for their Easter basket.

Buy on Amazon: Poncho

Drawstring backpack

A drawstring backpack fits easily into an Easter basket. This cute backpack has a glow-in-the dark Mickey and comes with a little wristlet.

Buy on Amazon: Mickey drawstring backpack with wristlet

Pocket sunscreen

Don’t forget the sun protection! Add some travel-size sunscreen and SPF lip balm to your Disney World Easter basket.

Buy on Amazon: travel size sunscreen and lip balm

Books to add to your Disney World Easter Basket

Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World for Kids

The Birnbaum’s kids Disney World guide is a kid-friendly Disney World book that is sure to get them excited.

Buy on Amazon: Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World for Kids

The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World

Buy the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World for yourself. It’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about planning and executing a Disney World vacation. Also a great Easter basket gift for older kids or adults.

Buy on Amazon: Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World

Hidden Mickeys Field Guide

Hidden Mickeys are a fun scavenger hunt you can add to any park day. This is a great addition to a Disney World Easter basket.

Buy on Amazon: Disney World Hidden Mickeys book

Disney park themed Little Golden Books

Yes, there are Disney parks themed Little Golden Books, including the Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain, and It’s a Small World!

Click to shop Disney parks Little Golden Books on Amazon

Disney plushies for your Easter basket

Buy on Amazon: small Disney plushies

Add some Disney themed jewelry

Buy on Amazon: Disney rubber bracelets

Buy on Amazon: Disney birthstone necklace

Add some Disney parks treats

Did you know you can order Disney Parks candy, and even coffee, from Amazon? Choose a few fun treats for your Easter basket.

Buy on Amazon: Disney parks candy

Coffee from the Disney parks

Brew up your Easter morning coffee with the same beans you’ll find in the parks. You can order the Joffrey’s Disney Parks blends straight from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon: Joffrey’s Disney Parks blend coffee

More theme park gift ideas

For more ideas, here are a few related posts and podcast episodes from Go Informed:

• 33 nifty travel gadgets to get now
• Universal Orlando and Disney World traveler gift guide
• 8 great Disney World stocking stuffers
• Universal Orlando Easter basket ideas
• Go Informed’s Orlando summer gear guide

More Disney World Tips From Go Informed

• Get ready to walk at Disney World
• 55 things to know before you visit Disney World
• How to add Universal Orlando to your Disney vacation
• Disney World complete hotel guide

The Go Informed podcast

Straightforward tips to help you have the best theme park vacation ever. Listen to the Go Informed: Build a Better Vacation podcast on your favorite podcast app.

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In this episode, I share lots of tips for how to get ready for your visit to Walt Disney World. You’ll hear advice for planning your trip, what to buy before you get there, and how to prepare for your time in the parks.

These are the show notes for episode 17. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

This is day 9 of the Go Informed podcast series 10 Days to a Better Disney World Vacation.

Top Disney World Tips To Help You Get Ready for Your Trip

Tip #1: Do Your Research

Listening to these 10 episodes is a good start!

Get a good guidebook. Here’s my Disney World recommended reading list.

Pinterest is an excellent place to search for, and discover, online information about your trip to Disney World. Here’s a link to my Disney World board on Pinterest.

Here’s my post with recommended podcasts, books, and websites that will help you get ready for Disney World.

And here is Go Informed podcast episode 22 where I discuss my favorite Disney World podcasts.

YouTube is also a good place to get Disney World information, including ride videos. If you’re not sure if your kids will be OK on some of the rides, watch the video with your kids ahead of time and find out what you can expect.

Tip #2: Make a Plan

Start thinking about what you want to do and see. What experiences are important to you? What kind of schedule do you want to be on?

Be careful not to overschedule.

Check out a crowd calendar. TouringPlans.com has an amazing crowd prediction system.

Get help if you need it. A travel agent can handle all the details of your planning, at no extra cost to you, and may even save you money.

Tip #3: Buy Your Park Ticket in Advance

Learn all about Disney World park ticket options in this post.

You need to have a park ticket before you make your FastPass+ reservations.

Decide whether you need a single-park ticket or a Park Hopper ticket.

Tip #4: Make Your Dining and FastPass+ Reservations as Far in Advance as Possible

Episode 12 is all about dining & FastPass+ reservations.

Episode 27 shows you how to use a breakfast reservation to get into an empty Disney World park.

Tip #5: Start Training for Your Trip

You are going to spend a lot of time on your feet at Disney World, and will walk around 10-12 miles every day! Start walking, and be sure to include your travel companions in this training too.

Here’s where you can find out the actual distances in the parks, including maps, and get a free downloadable training bingo card.

Get yourself some shoes that you could run a marathon in. And make sure you have comfortable socks and clothing too.

Decide if you need to rent a stroller or a scooter.

Tip #6: Count Down to Your Trip

You can use a countdown app or make a calendar or a paper chain.

Add some of your trip excitement into the holidays with a Disney World themed Christmas stocking or Easter basket.

Tip #7: Get Your Whole Crew Informed About Disney World

Share information with your traveling companions to help them get excited and on the same page about what to expect.

Share some of these 10 episodes with your buddies. You can share from your favorite podcast app, or send links to any of the episodes from here:

Disney World: The Basics

Disney World Commonly Used Words and Phrases

Disney World: Where to Stay

Disney World Dining and FastPass+ Reservations

Disney World Magic Kingdom Tour

Disney World Epcot Tour

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Tour

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Tour

Disney World Tips For Getting Ready For Your Trip

Tips for Your First Day in the Disney World Parks

Get a guidebook for the members of your travel group. A few books I recommend to help get visitors excited and educated about Disney World:

Birnbaum’s Official Guide to Walt Disney World

Birnbaum’s Walt Disney World for Kids

Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids

And be sure to include your kids in the planning for your trip as much as possible.

Tip #8: Decide if You Want to Purchase the Memory Maker Photo Package

Buy Memory Maker in advance so it’s all good to go. Here’s Disney’s Memory Maker information.

Tip #9: Watch the Weather Forecast and Prepare for the Weather

Know what the weather typically looks like for the time of year you’re visiting. Orlando weather can be volatile so be sure to keep an eye on the forecast as your trip dates approach.

Here is my post about dealing with the summer weather at Disney World.

Episode 24 is my Orlando Summer Gear Guide. Be sure to give it a listen if you’ll be traveling between about May-October.

Episode 28 is my Top 5 Orlando Summer Weather Tips.

Tip #10: Purchase Some Supplies Before You Get to Disney World

If you’ll be visiting Orlando in any of the summer months, you will need to have a poncho. Disney World has ponchos for sale, but you can buy a much nicer poncho for less money when you shop ahead. Here is an Amazon link to the poncho we use.

A personal fan is really nice to have along on a hot Florida day.

Check out my Orlando Summer Gear Guide for more advice about supplies to help you cope with the summer heat and rain.

Wet Ones antibacterial wipes are a convenient way to help keep germs at bay at Disney World.

Think about getting a backpack for each member of your group. A backpack is a handy way to carry supplies for the day and to keep your souvenirs secure on the roller coasters. We use a simple drawstring backpack like this – it’s lightweight, folds up small in our luggage, and holds our mouse ears and jackets perfectly.

Anything you buy for your trip can be given as a gift. Click here for my top gift suggestions for Disney World travelers.

Tip #11: Watch the Movies

Movie night is a fun way to get ready for your trip. Some of the most common movie references you’ll find in the Disney World parks are:

Frozen

Toy Story

Star Wars

Beauty and the Beast

Pirates of the Caribbean

Finding Nemo

Avatar

Tip #12: Check-in Before You Go

If you stay in a Disney-run hotel, you can check-in several weeks before your trip, allowing you to skip the hotel’s front desk completely. Disney texts you your room number and you use your Magic Band as the key. Here’s Disney’s info about online check-in.

Tip #13: Download Apps

Get your phone ready for your Disney World trip by downloading the apps you’ll need.

My Disney Experience

Lines

Uber   Here’s a discount promo code for your first ride with Uber: 5YJ9X

Tip #14: Check the Park Schedules

Park schedules can change, even the day before. Keep an eye on the park opening and closing times.

Tip #15: Set Realistic Expections

Talk with your fellow travelers to make sure you’re on the same page about what you’ll be doing on your Disney World trip. And stay flexible – not everything will go according to plan, no matter how prepared you are.

Tip #16: Don’t Arrive Exhausted

Do your best to arrive rested. And give yourself and your kids a break if you start your trip tired.

Tip #17: Charge Your Phone

You will need a full battery in the parks.

Tip #18: Don’t Forget Your Magic Band or Park Ticket

We wear our Magic Bands on the plane so we know we haven’t left them behind.

Comment Below

Do you have any more tips to add? Please feel free to share in the comments below.

Leave a Rating or Review on Itunes

Here’s a link to the podcast on iTunes. Thanks for listening, and for your review!

Tomorrow’s episode, Day 10 of 10 Days to a Better Disney World Vacation, is all about what to expect on your first day in the Disney World parks. Click here to listen now.

Additional Resources for Planning Your Trip to Disney World

55 Things To Know Before You Visit Disney World

Adding a Visit to Universal to Your Disney World Trip

The guidebook I recommend: Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World

My Walt Disney World board on Pinterest

The Go Informed Podcast

Find all the episodes in the series 10 Days to a Better Disney World Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

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The post Disney World Tips for Getting Ready for Your Trip – Go Informed Podcast Episode 017 appeared first on Go Informed.

In today’s episode of the 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation series I share ten tips to help you get ready for your Universal Orlando vacation.

These are the show notes for episode 6. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

Ten Tips To Get Ready For Universal Orlando

Tip #1: Get informed. Get a guide book, read online posts, check out Pinterest.

Tip #2: Start training for your trip. And get some good walking shoes.

Tip #3: Buy your park tickets before you go. Decide whether you want an Express Pass.

Consider buying a Universal Orlando annual pass. Annual passholders get big discounts on on-site hotels. Episode 40 helps you explore this option before you choose your park tickets.

Tip #4: Load park apps to your phone and try them out.

Tip #5: Know the park hours and which park has early admission.

Tip #6: Check out a crowd calendar.

Tip #7: Know what to expect from the weather. If you’ll be visiting Orlando between about May – October, be sure to listen to episode 24, which is my Orlando Summer Gear Guide.

Episode 28 is my Top 5 Orlando Summer Weather Tips.

Tip #8: Have a plan.

Tip #9: Things to buy before you go.

Anything you buy for your trip can be given as a gift. Surprise your fellow travelers with these top Universal Orlando vacation themed gift suggestions.

Tip #10: Things to bring.

Extra credit: Watch the movies and read the Harry Potter books.

Booking.com

Resources mentioned in this episode

33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando

The Universal Guidebook I recommend: The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

My Universal Orlando Pinterest board

Official Universal Orlando park tickets page

Eight Essential Apps for Your Universal Orlando Trip

Universal Orlando park hours information

Universal Orlando early admission schedule

Touringplans.com Universal Orlando crowd calendar

Weather at Universal Orlando: 5 Cool Tips for the Heat and Rain

Theme Park Rainy Day Tips: Xtreme Edition

Things to buy: Ponchos,  Antibacterial wipes

Universal Orlando Movies and TV Shows and the Rides They Inspired

The Harry Potter books

The Harry Potter books – audio version  (FREE with Audible Trial!)

Traveling around Christmas or Easter? Here’s some ideas for a Universal Orlando themed Easter Basket or Stocking Stuffers.

Tomorrow’s episode, Day 7 of 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation, is all about what to expect on your first day in the Universal Orlando parks. Click here to listen now.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

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On our recent trip to Disneyland we got caught in an epic day-long rainstorm that was so bad the park closed early. Here on goinformed.net I’ve already shared a couple of posts with tips for dealing with challenging weather at Disney World and Universal Orlando, and now I have a few more tips for what to do when the rain goes beyond just a typical afternoon shower. These rainy day tips will help make your day at Disney or Universal a whole lot easier.

Orlando Summer Gear Guide on the Go Informed Podcast

Click here to check out my Orlando Summer Gear Guide so you’ll be ready for the heat and rain.

Wet Shoes

Whether it’s a day-long storm or just a sudden torrential downpour, it’s easy to end up with soaking wet shoes. Here are some of my tips for how to deal with wet shoes at Disney.

My shoes are soaked but I don’t want to leave the park

Go to the nearest shop and buy some new socks. Get two small plastic bags from the cashier. (Disney cast members will always give you bags even if you don’t buy anything).

Pick up some napkins at a counter-service restaurant or get some paper towels from the restroom.

Find a dry place where you can discreetly strip down to bare feet. (I recommend the back corner of a quick-serve restaurant; or you can use a restroom – bonus if it has a hand-dryer that can double as a foot-dryer).

Get your feet as dry as possible, then switch into your new, warm, dry socks. Then put your feet into the plastic bags.

Slip your plastic-encased feet into your shoes and carry on. This really does work and even though you’ll probably still feel the water in your shoes it won’t actually be touching your skin.

(Carefully) Use a Hair Dryer to Dry Out Wet Shoes

Soaking-wet shoes can take a long time to dry out, and if you don’t have another pair of shoes you may need to speed up the process. You can use a hair dryer to blow warm air into and around your shoes to help them dry more quickly.

First take the insoles out of the shoes, set them aside. Put the hair dryer on the highest fan setting possible, but watch the heat. If the air is too hot it might warp or melt your shoe, so don’t put a hot hair dryer right up against the shoe. Instead, blow warm air or hold the heat away from the shoe surface, and check the progress frequently to be sure you aren’t causing hot spots.

Blow the air both into the shoe and around the outside. A more powerful hair dryer will be more effective than a tiny wall-mounted hotel-room dryer. If there’s only one of these puny dryers in your room, check with the front desk to see if they have anything more powerful. They may have a standard hair dryer you can borrow.

I found the hair dryer to be less effective on the insole, at least on our shoes, but the insoles dried on their own overnight. I hung them in the shower from the clips on a slacks hanger.

You probably won’t be able to fully dry your shoes with a hair dryer, but even if you just get them less soggy this will greatly speed up the time it takes them to air dry.

Preparing for Wet Shoes

In the morning if your shoes are still wet, or if you know you will be facing another very rainy day, start your day with plastic bags on your feet (first socks on your feet, then plastic bags, like above).

Bring an extra pair of dry socks with you so you can change if you need to.

More rainy day tips for extreme weather

Pack an extra pair of shoes and lots of socks

One of the best ways to keep your feet dry is to have two pairs of shoes on your trip. This way you can rotate, allowing one pair to dry while you get the other one wet.

And don’t forget to bring lots of extra socks so you can at least switch to dry socks frequently.

Wipe ponchos down with a towel

When you get back to your hotel room, use a towel to dry your ponchos. You’ll find that you can get them almost completely dry this way, but if you don’t wipe them off they really stay wet. Towel them down, then find a place to hang them until you need them again.

Carrying a towel in your backpack can really help too, so you can wipe down when you go inside a ride or into a restaurant.

Live to see another day

If the deluge hits on your last day at Disney, by all means, keep going and make the best of it. But if you still have days left in your trip, consider heading back to your room a little (or a lot) early. Touring in extreme weather is physically and mentally exhausting.

Take advantage of the light crowds on a rainy day and hit the rides you most want to see. Then call it a day before everyone in your group melts down.

Our go-to rescue plan on a stormy day is room service. It’s sensational to get back to the room, enjoy a long hot shower, and not go back out. If room service isn’t your style, pick up a bite on your way to your room or order pizza. Put on your pajamas and rest so you can be fresh the next morning.

Order supplies

If you suddenly realize you did not pack properly for the weather conditions, check with your hotel to find out if you can receive an Amazon  delivery. You can order almost anything you need, even that extra pair of shoes you forgot, or a shoe/boot dryer, without spending precious vacation time at the mall.  Spring for next-day shipping (this is an excellent time to try out a Prime membership) and get on with your magical day.

More weather tips from goinformed.net

Be sure to also check out my other posts and podcast episodes about dealing with weather in Orlando. These tips work great for Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood too!

Disney World Weather Tips and Why August is a Great Time to Visit Orlando

Weather at Universal Orlando: 5 Cool Tips for the Heat and Rain

Orlando Summer Gear Guide on the Go Informed Podcast

Top 5 Orlando Summer Weather Tips – Go Informed Podcast Episode 028

Theme Park Touring Tips

Click here for more theme park touring tips from goinformed.net, including:

55 Things To Know Before You Visit Disney World

33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando

Beat the Crowds and Skip the Line at Disney World’s Frozen Ever After Ride

Go Informed Podcast

Click here to listen to the Go Informed podcast.

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It’s hard to imagine a more special Christmas than the one with a surprise trip to Orlando or Anaheim under the tree. Thoughtfully curated stocking stuffers heighten the intrigue, add to the surprise, and become a practical part of your Disney vacation preparation too. Listed here are some fun Disney vacation stocking stuffers to help you surprise and delight anyone headed on a Disney vacation.

Want even more gift ideas? Be sure to check out my Disney & Universal Orlando gift guide right here.

Unusual stocking stuffers for Disney trips

The fun thing is that many of these items are pretty mundane, and maybe downright  weird, to find in a Christmas stocking. So use this list thoughtfully if your aim is to pique interest as part of a surprise Disney vacation reveal.

A quick note that the links below are affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission on any purchases you make, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Go Informed!

What to put in a Disney vacation themed stocking

Here are ten things that I think make great stocking stuffers for anyone heading to Disney.

Personal fan

Especially if your trip is scheduled for the summertime, and even more especially if your trip is to Orlando, a personal fan is something every Disney guest can use.

Click here to see it on Amazon

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a year-round must-have in Orlando and Anaheim. Be sure to include some travel-sized sunscreen in your Disney-bound stocking.

Click here to find it on Amazon

Click here to find it at Target

Portable phone charger

Keep their phone charged for a full day in the parks. An external power pack can really come in handy, and it makes a perfect stocking stuffer.

Click here to find it on Amazon

Click here to find it at Target

Hand sanitizer wipes

Keep theme park germs at bay with antibacterial hand wipes. Individually wrapped Purell wipes are easy to carry and super convenient for travel.

Click here to find it on Amazon

Click here to find it at Target

Card game

The Monopoly Deal card game makes a perfect stocking stuffer. It’s a fun way to pass time on a long flight or just around the table at home.

Click here to find it on Amazon

Click here to find it at Target

Poncho

One of the best items to purchase before a Disney World vacation is a poncho. Not only is a poncho handy on wet rides like Splash Mountain, it keeps you dry in the inevitable Orlando summer rain. I really like the Totes poncho because it’s durable, has snaps down the sides, and comes in a reusable mesh bag. Plus there are lots of fun colors to choose from.

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Or get a whole pack of disposable clear ponchos from Target, here.

Deodorant Wipes

I’m pretty sure I mentioned earlier that some of these ideas would be a little unusual for a stocking. This is one of them. Especially if your stocking stuffers are leading up to a big surprise Disney vacation reveal, including some deodorant wipes is sure to keep them guessing.

A pack of deodorant wipes is actually a really practical gift for any Disney World traveler. Park touring in the heat can quickly lead to a not-so-fresh feeling. Including a few of these handy wipes in a park bag will definitely help.

Click here to find it on Amazon

Click here to find it at Target

High-SPF Lip balm

Throw a couple of high-SPF lip balms in their stocking to keep their smile fresh for all those ride photos.

Click here to find it on Amazon

Click here to find it at Target

Disney Parks Books

This Hidden Mickeys book is the perfect stocking stuffer size, and it’s a great gift for both kids and adults. Other options for kids include Little Golden books that feature Disney attractions, or for older kids, the Kingdom Keepers books. For adults, you could include a Disney World trivia book (or a history of Disneyland, if that’s the destination).

See these books on Amazon:

• Disney World Hidden Mickeys
• Jungle Cruise Little Golden Book
• Kingdom Keepers, Book 1
• Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World
• Disneyland Story

You can also find the Disney Little Golden Books at Target here.

Gift card

Of course good-old cash is also always a hit in any stocking. Add a Disney gift card so they can pick out a special souvenir in the parks.

Get your Disney gift card from Target here.

You can even give a Disneyland park ticket gift card! Check it out here.

Want more gift ideas for Disney-bound travelers? Check out my gift guide here.

More gift ideas for travelers

Looking for more general travel-related gear and gadgets? Here are my top 33 travel gadgets, for every traveler in your life.

More tips for Disney travelers

Save time and money, and beat the crowds! Get my simple theme park tips, delivered directly to your inbox. Click here to join the Go Informed mailing list.

Here on GoInformed.net, and on the Go Informed Podcast, I’ve got lots of tips for Disney travelers, including:

• 55 Things to know before you visit Disney World
• How to add Universal to your Disney World trip
• Disney World walking distances, with printable maps
• Disneyland walking distances, with printable maps
• How to do Disneyland Paris in one day

Considering Universal Orlando?

Here’s a quick look at Universal Orlando resort.

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