Should You Bring a Backpack to a Theme Park?

When planning a day at a theme park, the question of whether or not to bring a backpack is one that many visitors ponder. While having all your essentials on hand seems like a no-brainer, there are downsides to lugging a bag around all day.

In this article, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of bringing a backpack to a theme park to help you decide what’s best for your next adventure. Whether you’re a parent with kids in tow, a thrill-seeker hitting the biggest rides, or just someone who wants a hassle-free day, there’s a lot to consider before packing up.

3 Reasons to Bring a Backpack to a Theme Park

Bringing a backpack to a theme park can be a game changer for many guests. It allows you to have all your essentials at your fingertips, making the day more comfortable. Whether you’re preparing for unpredictable circumstances or hoping to avoid spending money on lockers, a backpack can make navigating a park easier.

1. Storing Your Park Essentials

Bringing a bag into the parks that allow it means that you’ll always have the essentials on hand:

• Re-fillable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Painkillers and other medications
• Change of socks
• Snacks

Having everything you need for a day out, in one place, keeps your hands free.

2. Weather Preparedness

Many theme and amusement parks are located in parts of the world that have rather unpredictable weather. It could be that an area gets 300 days of rain or that there’s a thunderstorm every day at 3pm.

If you know that there’s a chance for rain, then a backpack allows you to easily carry a poncho or light weight rain jacket. You could also pack a foldable cap to keep the sun off your head, sunglasses, and of course the incredibly important sunscreen.

Don’t forget chapstick for the dry, windy days out! Your lips will thank you!

3. Souvenir Storage

Some parks have services that will send souvenirs to your hotel room, or the front of the park. However, sometimes this service isn’t worth the cost (if it’s not a free perk) or hassle. Especially if you’re just purchasing a magnet or a few other small items.

If you’re going to purchase something breakable, it is worth doing it as close to the end of the day as possible so you don’t break your purchase!

3 Reasons Not to Bring a Backpack

while bags and backpacks offer convenience, it’s not always the best choice for everyone. Carrying something on your back all day can be tiring. Not to mention many newer rides require you to leave your bag in a locker which can end up being way too small.

1. Back Checks at the Entrance or Security

Number one on the reasons to not bring a backpack into the park is security. Often when you’re passing through security, someone will want to check your bag. Since we like having multiple pockets and pouches so everything can have it’s place (especially if you’re bringing medical items into the park), this can really make getting through theme park security a pita.

We have talked about ways to get through theme park security faster in the event you’d like to take a look!

2. Locker Costs or Restrictions

Some parks require guests to store their packs in a locker then come back for their stuff through the day. Often, these lockers aren’t a free perk to the park and can be costly for a full day at the park.

And, of course there are rides that require riders to stuff their belongings in a ride locker. Often these lockers are big enough for maybe a bum bag, phone and sunglasses. If you have a huge pack, you’ll have to get someone in your party to play bag babysitter. VelociCoaster at Universal Orlando is one such ride that forces riders to strip themselves of any belongings before getting onto the ride.

3. Added Weight and Fatigue

If you’re not used to carrying around a heavy backpack all day long, by mid day chances are your shoulders and back will be screaming at you.

If you’re planning on carrying a pack with water and loads of snacks, you might want to start training a month or so ahead of time so your body can get used to the additional weight and strain. Adding a full water bottle or two to your intended backpack and going for walks around the neighborhood is a great way to train!

Plus, you’ll be ready for those 15,000+ steps per day if you’re staying multiple days at a park!

Final Thoughts: Should You Bring a Backpack to a Theme Park?

Deciding whether to bring a backpack to a theme park ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities for the day.

If convenience, carrying essentials, and staying prepared for any situation are high on your list, a backpack can be a lifesaver. However, if you prefer to travel light and avoid the extra weight and potential hassles with lockers, it might be better to leave it behind. Weigh the pros and cons based on your plans, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your day at the park to the fullest.

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