When visiting Disney World in May, you need to be prepared for the weather and fun happenings in the parks!
Wondering what to wear to Disney World in May? Or what you should pack for your trip? Get our list of recommended must-haves for a May trip to Disney!
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If you’re planning a trip to Disney World in May, you’re in good company!
The fact is, planning a vacation can be both exciting and stressful, especially when you’re picking your dates, choosing which hotel you’ll stay at, even deciding which park to go to on which day.
So when it comes to figuring out what to pack for your May trip, you’re probably more ready than ever for a break. Talk about needing a vacation!
May is a popular time to visit the Happiest Place on Earth, and for good reason. The weather is heating up, the long weekend of Memorial Day makes traveling easier for some, and there’s plenty going on at the parks.
For instance, Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival runs through May, attracting guests from around the world to see the exquisite displays (and enjoy a glass of Disney’s violet lemonade).
To help you make the best choices for your vacation, I’ve put together a list for what to pack, what to expect weather-wise, and what to wear to Disney World in May.
What’s the Weather Like in Orlando in May?
Of course, any vacation packing list will depend on the weather!
May weather in Orlando is typically about 85 degrees and sunny (with a few rain showers here and there, of course). There is a slight chance of colder weather if it is unusually cold outside, but this is definitely not the norm.
The first couple weeks of May can still see some chilly mornings and evenings (think mid-60s), but daytime temperatures are usually quite warm in the mid-80s to lower-90s.
By the end of May, it’s going to feel like full-fledged summer!
What to Wear in Disney World in May
Having lived in and visited Central Florida for several years now, I have learned a thing or two about what to wear to the parks in May.
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Comfortable Shoes
One of the most important items you’ll want to pack for Disney World is going to be shoes you don’t mind wearing all day.
Wearing the wrong shoes can make or break your vacation, so it’s important to pick the right ones.
Check out our list of the best shoes for Disney World, as well as our suggestions for keeping your feet happy at Disney World.
Shorts, Pants, or Leggings
Shorts are a must-have for visiting Disney World in May! Temperatures in the 80s and 90s definitely beg for shorts.
But you may also want to pack some comfortable athletic-type pants or leggings, too (check out our favorite Disney leggings–they’re SO cute!).
Capri length yoga pants or athletic leggings can be a good middle-ground between shorts and pants.
Comfortable Tops
I prefer looser, more flowy shirts in the Orlando heat, as it helps me feel less sticky in the humidity.
Absorbent athletic shirts and tank tops are another good choice, since they wick sweat away from your skin.
You could even do matching family shirts for Disney!
Even if you happen to have an unusually cooler day, you’ll be fine in shorts and a t-shirt (with a sweatshirt or light jacket easily stored in your bag or locker for later).
A light Jacket, Sweatshirt, or Sweater
May doesn’t see the same temperature fluctuations commonly experienced earlier in Spring. So it’s possible you won’t even need a jacket or sweatshirt.
But if you’re the type who likes to be prepared, go ahead and pack one! If you’re short on space in your suitcase, leave it out and buy one in a gift shop if the need arises.
Rain Poncho
Florida weather can be unpredictable, and you never know when a rain shower will pop up. Since I know you’ll still want to enjoy Disney World in the rain, make sure to pack either an easy rain jacket or poncho to keep yourself dry.
Whether you want inexpensive disposable ponchos or something that’s built to last, we have a list of our favorite ponchos for Disney World to help you pick the best one for your needs!
Sunglasses and Sun Hat
Another thing I always pack for my Disney trip is a pair of sunglasses and a sun hat.
They’re great for keeping the sun out of your eyes and shading your face from the sun’s rays, especially during the sunny month of May.
If you’re planning on visiting the parks and sitting outside that day, I’d pack a sun hat–these are great for waiting in outside lines or when viewing a parade or cavalcade.
My kids each have one of these gender-neutral, vented, water-resistant hats, which work great.
They’re adjustable and can also be used at the beach, zoo, or playing outside. Plus they come in several different colors!
I love this inexpensive straw hat that folds up for easy packing! I’ve had it for four years and it’s held up really well.
The Best Bag for Disney
I consider your bag to be something you wear, because you’ll be carrying it around all day!
Choosing a park bag that works best for you really depends on who you’re traveling with and what you’ll need.
Some bags are large enough to hold everything you need for your family, but are heavy for carrying.
If you’re bringing or renting a stroller, a larger bag won’t be an issue, because you can simply stow it in the basket.
If you need multiple pockets so you can easily separate all the items you might need to access quickly, you may prefer using a backpack for Disney World.
When packing light or traveling sans kids, you may prefer one of these fanny packs for Disney World.
Whichever one you choose, keep in mind that if you’re spending a day in each or multiple parks, you’ll have to replenish your items each day before you visit another park.
What Else to Pack for Walt Disney World in April
In addition to clothing, these items are always a good choice to have available in your bags for your trip. They’ll give you peace of mind knowing that you have the essentials.
Be sure to add these to your Disney World packing list!
Sunscreen
You’ll definitely need sunscreen in May. Many Disney visitors are surprised at how much more quickly they burn in Orlando than they do at home.
And while you can buy sunscreen in the parks, it does cost more than what you’d pay elsewhere.
A good rule of thumb is to apply every 2 hours and after any water activities (including pool time). If you’re going to be outside all day long, I’d definitely plan on bringing it along.
You may already have some favorite sunscreens for your family. If not, these are three of my favorite varieties.
The Hint pineapple sunscreen smells heavenly and doesn’t choke you with fumes when you use it.
This sunscreen stick is by far the easiest way to protect my kids’ faces, and the Anthelios sunscreen is the only kind my own sensitive skin can tolerate on my face.
First Aid Essentials
If you or anyone else on your trip requires certain medications, be sure to bring those as well as some basic first aid items.
When I’m at the park, I simply use a Ziploc bag to store my first aid supplies for easy access.
But you could also just buy a small kit to stow in your bag, because it’s always a good idea to have a small first aid kit that includes the essentials for boo-boos and blisters.
Having access to these items can make a huge difference when you or someone in your group is feeling sick, sunburned, develops painful blisters, or experiences the Disney Rash!
Snacks
One of the best ways to save money while at Walt Disney World is by bringing food with you.
It’s a simple idea, but seriously helps to at least cut back a little bit on costs. Pack items like granola bars, crackers, bread and peanut butter/jelly for snacking throughout the day.
Refillable Water Bottle
One of our best tips for staying cool at Disney World is to stay hydrated! Buying bottled water can be quite expensive, so we always bring a refillable water bottle.
You’ll save a ton of money and help reduce waste by doing this! If you’re not wearing a backpack with a water bottle pocket, grab one of these water bottle straps for ease of carrying.
You can go to the counter at any quick service restaurant and request cups of ice water, which you can pour into your bottle and tote around the park!
Tissues, Wipes, and Sanitizer
Pack these items just in case there’s a crying toddler meltdown or last minute need to wipe off sweaty faces or clean hands.
You can’t go wrong with bringing these items!
Phone Charger
If you’re like me, you’ll probably use up all of your battery by taking lots of photos and videos throughout the day!
Depending on how long you’re planning to be in the parks, I’d suggest packing a small, portable charger if your phone’s battery will run out quickly.
Disney Packing List for May
While these items aren’t totally necessary, they are things I usually pack in my bag to make it easier throughout the day. They’ll make your trip much less stressful, too!
To recap, here’s what you’ll need:
- Cool, comfortable clothing (including comfy shoes!)
- Rain poncho
- Sunglasses and a sun hat
- Sunscreen
- First aid essentials
- Snacks
- Refillable water bottle
- Wipes and hand sanitizer
- Phone charger
- A bag for easily transporting everything
I hope this list has helped you know what you need to wear and pack for your trip to Disney World in May!
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