Planning a day at an amusement park involves more than just mapping out which rides to conquer first—it requires thoughtful consideration of what bag to bring. The right bag can make the difference between a carefree adventure and a frustrating experience juggling your belongings. Having visited over 50 theme parks across the country, I’ve learned that the best bag for amusement park visits combines security, comfort, and practicality while meeting park regulations. This guide will help you find the perfect companion for your thrilling day out, whether you’re heading to Disney World or your local theme park.
Essential Features: What Makes the Perfect Amusement Park Bag
After countless park visits and conversations with fellow enthusiasts, I’ve identified the key features that separate the best bags for amusement parks from those that will leave you frustrated by midday.
The ideal amusement park bag should be lightweight, secure, and versatile enough to adapt to different ride restrictions while keeping your essentials accessible throughout the day.
When selecting your bag, prioritize these critical features to ensure maximum enjoyment with minimum hassle during your park adventure.
Quick Tip: Always check the specific bag policies for the park you’re visiting before making a purchase. Some parks have size restrictions or prohibit certain bag types on particular attractions.
Smart Organization: Features That Make or Break Your Park Experience
The difference between constantly searching for items and having them readily available comes down to how well your bag organizes your essentials. Here’s what to look for in a well-designed amusement park bag:
Security Features
Look for anti-theft elements like RFID-blocking pockets, hidden compartments, and secure zippers. These features protect your valuables in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur.
Comfort Design
Padded, adjustable straps distribute weight evenly across your body. Breathable back panels prevent uncomfortable sweating during hot days at the park.
Water Resistance
Water rides and sudden rain showers are part of the amusement park experience. Water-resistant materials keep your phone, wallet, and other essentials dry throughout the day.
Never Forget an Essential Item
Download our complete printable amusement park packing checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a day of fun and adventure.
Bag Types: Finding Your Perfect Match for Park Adventures
Different bag styles offer unique advantages for amusement park visits. Understanding the pros and cons of each type will help you make the best choice for your specific needs:
Backpacks
- Capacity – Offers maximum storage for families or all-day visits
- Weight distribution – Evenly distributes weight across both shoulders
- Hands-free – Keeps both hands available for holding tickets, food, or children
- Ride compatibility – May need to be stored in lockers for certain attractions
- Best for – Families, all-day visits, or when carrying multiple people’s items
Crossbody Bags
- Security – Stays close to your body, reducing theft risk
- Accessibility – Easy access to items without removing the bag
- Ride-friendly – Many parks allow wearing crossbody bags on rides
- Comfort – Less sweaty than backpacks in hot weather
- Best for – Solo visitors or couples who pack light
Sling bags offer the perfect middle ground between backpacks and crossbody bags, combining decent capacity with the ability to quickly swing the bag to your front for access or security.
More Options: Specialized Bags for Maximum Park Enjoyment
Beyond standard backpacks and crossbody bags, these specialized options offer unique benefits for amusement park adventures:
Fanny Packs & Belt Bags
- Ultra-compact – Holds just the essentials (phone, wallet, keys)
- Ride-friendly – Allowed on most attractions, even intense coasters
- Trendy designs – Modern styles from popular brands have revitalized this option
- Versatility – Can be worn around waist or across chest for different activities
- Best for – Thrill-seekers focusing on intense rides with minimal storage needs
- Quick access – Items are always within reach
- Lightweight – Barely noticeable when properly adjusted
- Security – Stays in front of your body in crowded areas
- Affordability – Generally less expensive than larger bag options
- Weather resistance – Many modern designs offer water-resistant materials
Hydration Packs
- Built-in water reservoir – Typically holds 1-2 liters for all-day hydration
- Hands-free drinking – Sip through the tube without stopping to find a water bottle
- Additional storage – Small pockets for essentials beyond just water
- Perfect for hot days – Ensures you stay hydrated without buying expensive park beverages
- Specialized designs – Some parks (like Disney) have specific policies about hydration pack styles
- Best for – Hot weather visits and water-conscious travelers
- Consideration – May need to be emptied before certain rides
Best For Intense Rides
- Fanny packs/belt bags
- Small crossbody bags
- Phone lanyards
- Cargo shorts/pants
- Running belts
May Require Lockers
- Standard backpacks
- Large crossbody bags
- Tote bags
- Drawstring bags
- Shopping bags
Top 5 Bags for Amusement Park Adventures in 2025
After testing dozens of bags across multiple park visits, these five options stand out for their perfect combination of functionality, comfort, and compliance with most park regulations:
Best Mini Backpack
The Loungefly Mini Backpack offers the perfect balance of style and function for Disney parks. With themed designs that complement your park experience, this bag features adjustable straps, water-resistant material, and just enough room for essentials without becoming bulky.
Best Sling Bag
The Waterfly Sling Backpack excels with its crossbody design that can be quickly swung to your front for ride access or security. With a water bottle holder, hidden anti-theft pocket, and breathable material, it’s perfect for hot days at the park.
Best Fanny Pack
The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag has revitalized the fanny pack category with its sleek design and water-repellent fabric. Large enough for phone, wallet, and sunscreen yet small enough to wear on most rides, it’s the ultimate hands-free solution.
More Top Picks: Specialized Options for Park Enthusiasts
These additional recommendations address specific needs for different types of park visitors:
Best Hydration Pack
The CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. combines a 1.5-liter water reservoir with just enough storage for park essentials. The streamlined design meets most park regulations, while the breathable back panel prevents uncomfortable sweating during summer visits.
Best Anti-Theft Option
The Baggallini Anti-Theft Crossbody features RFID-blocking card slots, slash-resistant material, and locking zippers. Perfect for international parks or crowded destinations where security is a priority without sacrificing the lightweight comfort needed for all-day wear.
| Bag Model | Best For | Capacity | Weight | Price Range |
| Loungefly Mini Backpack | Disney fans, Style-conscious visitors | 7L | 0.8 lbs | $70-$90 |
| Waterfly Sling Backpack | Solo travelers, Ride enthusiasts | 10L | 0.7 lbs | $25-$35 |
| Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag | Minimalists, Thrill-seekers | 1L | 0.3 lbs | $38-$48 |
| CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. | Hot weather visits, Water parks | 1.5L water + 4L gear | 0.9 lbs | $55-$75 |
| Baggallini Anti-Theft Crossbody | International parks, Security-conscious | 5L | 0.6 lbs | $65-$85 |
Amusement Park Bag Policies: Know Before You Go
Disney Parks Bag Policies
Disney allows bags smaller than 24″ long × 15″ wide × 18″ high. Bags are inspected at security checkpoints, but most rides permit small bags to be kept with you. Loose ice is prohibited, but ice packs are allowed. Selfie sticks, large tripods, and folding chairs are not permitted.
Universal Studios Bag Policies
Universal Studios restricts bags to 8″ x 6″ x 3″ on most major attractions. Larger bags require locker rental (free for the first hour, then hourly charges apply). Express Pass holders receive priority locker access. Security screening occurs before park entry.
Six Flags Bag Policies
Six Flags prohibits bags of any size on most major coasters and thrill rides. Complimentary lockers are available near these attractions, typically for 2-hour periods. All bags are subject to search upon entry, and outside food is generally prohibited except for medical needs.
Cedar Fair Parks (Cedar Point, Knott’s Berry Farm) Policies
Cedar Fair parks typically do not allow bags on major rides. Paid lockers are available throughout the park. Security screening occurs at entry points, and bag size restrictions vary by park. Some locations offer all-day locker rental options for frequent access.
Water Park Considerations
Water parks require waterproof or quick-drying bags. Many water attractions prohibit all personal items, with lockers available at additional cost. Consider waterproof phone pouches with lanyards for essential items. Some water parks offer cabana rentals with secure storage.
DIY Customization: Transform Any Bag into the Perfect Park Companion
Don’t want to purchase a specialized bag? These clever modifications can transform bags you already own into amusement park-friendly options:
- Add carabiners – Attach small items like hand sanitizer or water bottles to the outside of your bag for quick access
- Insert bag organizers – Use removable pouches to compartmentalize items and find them quickly
- Apply waterproofing spray – Make any fabric bag more resistant to water rides and sudden rain showers
- Add reflective tape – Make your bag easier to identify in dark ride exit areas or evening hours
- Install zipper locks – Simple zip-tie style locks deter opportunistic theft in crowded areas
- Create a quick-access phone pocket – Attach a small phone sleeve to your bag’s strap for ride photos and park apps
- Add padding – Stick-on foam padding can make straps more comfortable for all-day wear
Money-Saving Tip: Instead of buying expensive park-branded water bottles, bring a collapsible water bottle that takes minimal space when empty. Most parks have water fountains or free water at quick-service restaurants.
What to Pack: Essential Items for Your Amusement Park Bag
Now that you’ve found the perfect bag, here’s what experienced park-goers recommend packing for a comfortable, prepared day of adventure:
Must-Have Essentials
- Refillable water bottle – Stay hydrated without spending on expensive park beverages
- Portable phone charger – Park apps drain battery quickly with maps and wait times
- Sunscreen – Reapply throughout the day, even on cloudy days
- Hand sanitizer – Rides and railings harbor germs from thousands of daily visitors
- Poncho or packable rain jacket – Weather changes quickly, and they double as splash protection
- Lip balm with SPF – Prevents painful sunburned lips
- Portable snacks – Energy bars or trail mix for between meals
- Bandages – For unexpected blisters from walking
- Pain reliever – Headaches from sun, dehydration, or screaming on rides
- ID and payment method – Preferably in a secure, RFID-blocking pocket
Weather-Specific Items
- Summer visits – Cooling towel, handheld fan, hat, and extra deodorant
- Spring/Fall visits – Lightweight packable jacket and thin gloves for evening temperature drops
- Winter visits – Hand warmers, beanie, and touchscreen-compatible gloves
- Rainy forecasts – Waterproof phone case, quick-dry microfiber towel, and extra socks
- Water park days – Waterproof sunscreen, flip-flops, and quick-dry clothing
Be Prepared for Any Park Adventure
Get our complete season-specific packing guides for amusement parks to ensure you’re prepared for any weather or situation.
Buying Guide: Finding the Right Balance of Quality and Value
When investing in a bag for amusement park visits, consider these price points and what you can expect at each level:
Budget Options ($15-$30)
- What to expect – Basic functionality, fewer specialized features
- Durability – May last 1-2 seasons of regular use
- Materials – Basic water resistance, standard zippers
- Best for – Occasional park visitors or single-trip needs
- Where to buy – Amazon, Target, Walmart
Mid-Range Options ($30-$60)
- What to expect – Good balance of features and quality
- Durability – Should last 2-3 years of regular use
- Materials – Better water resistance, reinforced stitching
- Best for – Regular park visitors (3-5 times yearly)
- Where to buy – REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, brand websites
Premium Options ($60-$100+)
- What to expect – Specialized features, superior comfort
- Durability – 5+ years with proper care
- Materials – High-grade water resistance, premium zippers
- Best for – Frequent visitors, annual pass holders
- Where to buy – Specialty outdoor retailers, brand flagship stores
The sweet spot for most park visitors is in the $30-$45 range, where you’ll find bags with adequate features and durability without overpaying for premium branding that doesn’t add functional value.
Common Mistakes: What to Avoid When Choosing Your Park Bag
Choosing Bags That Are Too Large
Oversized bags become burdensome throughout the day and often require locker rental for major attractions. Focus on efficient organization rather than maximum capacity. A well-designed 10L bag often serves better than a poorly organized 20L option.
Ignoring Comfort Features
Thin straps or poor weight distribution lead to shoulder and back pain after hours of walking. Prioritize padded straps, breathable back panels, and adjustable fit—especially in hot weather when comfort issues are amplified.
Underestimating Water Exposure
Between water rides, sudden rain showers, and drink spills, your bag will likely encounter moisture. Water-resistant material should be non-negotiable, with fully waterproof options preferred for water parks or rainy season visits.
Choosing Style Over Function
While themed bags add fun to your park experience, prioritize practical features first. The cute bag that digs into your shoulders or lacks secure closures will quickly diminish your enjoyment, regardless of its Instagram appeal.
Forgetting Security Features
Crowded parks create opportunities for theft. Avoid bags with exposed, easy-access pockets for valuables. Look for hidden compartments, RFID protection for cards, and zippers that can’t be easily opened by someone walking behind you.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Perfect Amusement Park Companion
Finding the best bag for amusement park adventures is about balancing your specific needs with park regulations and practical considerations. The right bag enhances your experience by keeping essentials accessible while remaining comfortable throughout long days of walking and riding.
Remember that the perfect bag varies based on your park habits—thrill-seekers prioritizing intense coasters need different features than families with young children or photography enthusiasts. Consider your typical park day, the items you can’t live without, and the specific parks you visit most frequently when making your final selection.
Ready for Your Next Park Adventure?
Check current prices on our top recommended bags and prepare for your most comfortable, organized park visit yet.
