Elevate Your Disney Trip: Top Backpack Picks for 2024

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Are you gearing up for the most magical trip of the year but can’t decide on the perfect backpack?

Well, you’re in luck because we’ve got you covered with 2024’s Most Magical Disney Backpacks: Your Complete Guide!

We’ve scoured stores and websites, and we’ve even talked to some Disney veterans, all to help you find a backpack that’s not just functional but also sprinkled with a little pixie dust!

We all know that a good backpack can be a game-changer when you’re navigating through the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, or any of the Disney parks. From essential features like durability and comfort to delightful details like Disney-themed designs, we’ve evaluated them all. So let’s dive right in and unpack the magic!

Best backpacks for Disney World – Our Top Pick

We recommend the North Face Vault as the best bag for Disney because it’s such a great all-rounder. Suitable for any member of the family, this strong and spacious backpack is built to last.

Perhaps you want a Disney kids’ backpack or would love to find the top Disney backpacks for women or men. Included in this top ten of best backpacks for amusement parks we’ve got the lot, from the best backpacks for moms to the coolest bags for dads and kids. These vary in size, color and style.

Of course, a Mickey Mouse backpack is always a great option for your Disney trip. As well as a sling bag, crossbody bags, insulated cooler backpack and travel packs with all the pockets and padding you could need for a comfortable day.

If you’re not sure what to look for when choosing backpacks to use at Disney parks, check out the section detailing what you need to consider. Don’t miss checking the lowdown on Disney’s sizing regulations, in particular.

Don’t worry. We’ll help you find the best bag to take to Disney.

Compare the top 10 best backpacks for Disney

CLICK on any image below to see Ratings and Reviews on Amazon for the best park bag.

Best backpacks for Disney World reviews

1. Jansport Disney High Stakes backpack

You don’t have to be a kid to appreciate the magic of Disney, and there are Disney backpacks for adults as well as children. Such as this one from Jansport.

It’s available in 3 different designs, including floral, dotted and Mickey and Minnie patterns.

There are padded shoulder straps and a cushioned back panel for comfortable all-day carrying. Inside there’s one large main compartment, and to the exterior, it has a front pocket with an integral organizer for all your essentials.

This lightweight backpack from Jansport is suitable for everyday use as well as when traveling, so the kids could even use it for school or you could take it when swimming once your trip is over. This one is equally great for child, teen or adult Disney fans.

Pros:

  • Reliable American brand
  • 3 appealing Disney designs
  • Padded back panel and shoulder straps

Cons:

  • Not the thickest fabric

2. Carhartt insulated cooler backpack

If you want access to chilled snacks and drinks during the day, then the best backpack for Disney might well include a cooler compartment.

This Carhartt backpack has an insulated food compartment, plus a couple of mesh pockets for storing drinks.

There are 3 neutral colors to choose from, and whether you pick brown, black or gray it should suit mom, dad or the kids equally well.

The heavy-duty ‘Rain Defender’ fabric is also water repellent. It is split inside into an insulated base compartment, with the main storage area above.

Despite being able to hold up to 12 soda cans, this pack is well within Disney’s size restrictions. It’s a rugged bag, yet weighs just 1.5lbs. It also has a handy pocket on the outside for stashing those items you need regular access to.

Pros:

  • 2-in-1 backpack and cooler
  • Leading US brand
  • ‘Rain Defender’ fabric finish

Cons:

  • Bulkier than some other packs

3. Fjallraven Kanken classic backpack

Sometimes classics are just that for a reason – and that applies to this Fjallraven backpack.

An iconic design from this Swedish company, the Kanken comes in a huge array of different colors so you can personalize it to suit your style.

Great features include Fjallraven’s own ‘Vinylon F’ fabric, which is both water and dirt-resistant.

Should anything stick, it’s really easy to wipe clean, as the surface naturally repels it. There is a main compartment inside, plus two open side pockets and a front zippered compartment.

The zipper has a rain flap for extra protection and ergonomic, padded shoulder straps. With a 16 liter capacity, this pack should carry everything you need. There are also twin grab handles that fasten together at the top.

Pros:

  • Vast range of colors
  • Water and dirt resistant finish
  • Padded shoulder straps plus grab handles

Cons:

  • Higher price than some

4. Loungefly Minnie Mouse mini backpack

This Loungefly Disney backpack for women is the ideal choice for grown-up females who adore cartoon characters.

While it’s not as spacious as some other options, it should hold everything a lot of women need – like a cell phone, keys, cards, cosmetics and an extra layer of clothing.

The style is so cute, featuring a polka dot denim fabric adorned with an oversized leather look bow.

There’s a Minnie tag on the zipper of the useful outer pouch, plus Minnie ears decorating the top. A grab handle between these adds a practical touch, and the shoulder straps are adjustable.

This officially licensed product is a Loungefly backpack and Disney backpacks are one of their specialties. A fabulous fashion choice for stylish women who want to fit right in when looking for the best Disney backpack.

Pros:

  • Adorable Minnie Mouse design
  • Ultra compact
  • Adjustable shoulder straps

Cons:

  • Small in size

5. Osprey Daylite backpack

A very practical choice is offered here in the form of the Osprey Daylite. This daypack from a respected outdoor brand is a great all-rounder and is available in a range of colorful or neutral options.

This 13-liter daypack has two outer mesh side pockets, providing the ideal place to store one or two drinks.

There is also a multi-purpose sleeve within the main section, and this can be used for a hydration reservoir or for storing a tablet. The zipped front pocket features an organizer and a key clip.

As you might expect from Osprey, this pack is very much designed with ergonomics in mind. It has a mesh-covered, padded back panel to provide ventilation as well as comfort. If you do have any larger Osprey bags, this is designed to attach to some models.

Pros:

  • Well-made, multi-purpose daypack
  • Can carry a tablet or hydration reservoir
  • Mesh covered, cushioned back panel for comfort

Cons:

  • Comparatively plain design

6. Simple Modern Kids’ Disney backpack

If you can, why not get the kids to carry their own stuff around Disney World?

It gives younger children that sense of responsibility they often crave and takes some of the load off you. Older kids could of course use any of the backpacks listed in this guide, so with this pick, we’re focusing on smaller children.

With a capacity of just 7 liters, this one is compact enough for even a toddler to carry, though there is a 12-liter option too.

It will also appeal to young ones thanks to the range of irresistible designs – whether they prefer pink or monochrome shades. It comes in a range of other fabrics too, so no problem if you don’t want to opt for those iconic ears.

Practical touches include expanding water bottle side pockets, a padded tablet sleeve and a couple of useful outside pockets. The shoulder straps are adjustable and there’s a chest strap too. This one even comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Pros:

  • 7 or 12 liter options
  • Range of Disney and other designs
  • Practical pockets and adjustable straps

Cons:

  • 7 liter size very small

7. Vera Bradley Reactive sling backpack

Looking for sling backpacks? This versatile product from Vera Bradley makes an ideal daypack for Disney. Eco-friendly folk will love the fact that it’s made from recycled bottles, creating a soft yet durable fabric that is also water-repellent.

A great feature is the selection of outer pockets on this one, with dedicated sleeves, spaces and rings for pens, a cell phone and keys. There are two zipped easy-access pockets, plus a concealed one on the back for valuables.

This sling bag can be worn cross-body style either at the back or front, making it a secure choice. This means it’s easy to wear it across your chest when you need to. It’s another good all-rounder for those seeking an alternative to the traditional backpack. Lots of lovely colors and patterns are available too.

Pros:

  • Cross body bag can be worn at back or front
  • Lots of outer pockets and sleeves
  • Water repellent, recycled fabric

Cons:

  • Less spacious than most backpacks

8. Coleman soft cooler backpack

Our second product for those wanting the best backpack cooler for Disney is this Coleman bag.

Its insulated main compartment keeps food and drinks cold. Coleman uses their camping expertise in adding heat-welded seams, as they help prevent leakage in the event of a spill.

A large front pocket provides plenty of space for those items you don’t want to keep in the cooler – or that you need quick access to. The shoulder straps are both padded and adjustable to maximize user comfort, as are the sections at the back and to the waist.

With a 28-can capacity, this pack can carry lots of soda and snacks for everyone. It’s the ideal choice for a family, as one parent can take the food while the other carries extra clothing and other essentials.

Pros:

  • Top outdoor brand
  • 28 can, leakproof cooler
  • Cushioned waist, back and straps

Cons:

  • Plain looks

9. North Face Vault Backpack

It would barely be a list of backpacks without a North Face product in there somewhere, and our pick of the bunch is the very versatile Vault. With 27 color or pattern options to choose from, there’s certainly something for everyone here.

This product is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, so you know it won’t put any unnecessary strain on your spine, joints or muscles.

There is a fully breathable and supportive lumbar panel built into the padded, mesh-covered back, flexible shoulder straps and twin grab handles. As it can stand up on its own, it can even save on bending down.

Compartment wise it has a large front pocket, plus water bottle and tablet sleeves and zipped sections. There is also a daisy chain attachment and key fob. This North Face backpack also has a generous 26-liter capacity.

For all of the above reasons, we have named it our best backpack for Disney.

Pros:

  • Endorsed by American Chiropractic Association
  • Generous 26-liter capacity
  • 27 designs to choose from

Cons:

  • May be oversized for some

10. Disney Mickey Mouse backpack

Our final offering comes directly from The Disney Store. It’s a stylish, black, leather-look backpack designed for women. Again this is leaning a little more towards fashion than practicality, but it should hold everything the independent, cartoon-loving female could require.

There is perhaps a surprising number of practical features on this bag too. Such as the front zippered pocket and two grab handles that are fastened together by a cute Mickey clasp.

The same metal Mickey studs decorate the ends of the handles too, where they meet the main body of the bag.

Loops for carrying accessories are found on the outside, while inside there’s a laptop sleeve to keep your tech safe. The side sleeves can also be used for storing a water bottle or small umbrella. If you want a handbag/backpack hybrid, this could be the one.

Pros:

  • Elegant Mickey Mouse bag
  • Laptop and side sleeves
  • Subtle Disney styling

Cons:

  • More about fashion than function

Choosing the best Disney Parks backpack

Here are some key features to consider when choosing the best backpack for your Disney theme parks vacation.

Size and weight

Will you travel light, or have a lot of stuff to carry? Do you want an ultra-lightweight packable bag, or one that’s more substantial and robust?

Pick the right one and it may be used for many other trips too.

Think about how long you’ll spend at the park each day, and if you travel as a family, who will carry what. Which items do you really need to take? Will your chosen product have enough space for all of them?

Pockets

While all the best daypacks for Disney will have a main compartment, what sort of others would be helpful?

Do you require one or more water bottle pockets, for example? A cooler compartment, tablet sleeve, or exterior pocket so you can grab essentials quickly?

Having a number of compartments, such as for credit cards, can help you stay more organized, so you can access just what you need without delay.

Comfort

The type of shoulder straps may not seem important, but on a bigger or heavier pack, in particular, adjustable shoulder straps can mean your pack fits perfectly, making it appear lighter than it really is.

Padded shoulder straps can also increase comfort, without adding to the weight too much. Some packs also have cushioned back panels.

Style

This will be a priority for some, and not so important for others.

It’s your bag, so if you’ll get much more pleasure from using it because you like the design, then why not?

Clearly, Disney-themed items, like a Mickey Mouse kids’ backpack, have added appeal when you’re seeking the best backpacks for Disneyland, so we’ve included a few of those.

Water resistance

A water-resistant pack can be helpful in any case, as water bottles can often leak.

If you’re going to Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach or enjoying some of Disney’s water rides, then some sort of waterproofed or quick-drying pack can certainly be a great choice.

During wet weather – which is more likely to occur at Disneyland Paris than Disney World in Orlando – this can also be a useful feature.

Little girl with pony tail and gray clothes waiting at a white rope

Best Disney backpacks – Frequently Asked Questions

Is a backpack a good idea for Disney World?

Of course. What better way to carry all your essentials around the park?

Any visit to Disney generally means long days with early starts, and as the parks are large there’s a lot of walking involved. Taking a great backpack can really help lighten the load – especially if you split carrying duties between your party.

In addition, you definitely want to bring food to Disney and a backpack is a great place to carry it.

What is the best backpack for Disney World?

You’ll see all sorts of backpacks at Disney World.

Which type is best for you depends on how many of you there are and what you want to carry around with you.

If you’re traveling solo or will each carry your own bag, then a mini backpack might be big enough.

When carrying snacks, drinks and extra layers for the whole family, you’ll need something larger and with more water bottle holders.

Although it must fit within the size regulations outlined below. All the packs listed here are well within Disney’s current guidelines.

Man with a backpack at Disney World - all the water bottle holders like this one makes it one of the best backpacks for Disney.
Look at all the water bottle holders!
What size backpack can you take to Disney?

Disney lays out their own rules when it comes to the bags you can bring.

Any pack bigger than 24″ in length x 15″ in width x 18″ in height is not permitted. This is equivalent to 61 cm x 38 cm x 46 cm in metric measurements – a pretty generous size for a daypack.

Disney also forbids the carrying of dry or loose ice, though reusable ice packs may be brought. This was correct at the time of writing, but do check the latest regulations before you travel. You can do that directly with Disney’s official site here.

Are backpacks allowed on Disney rides?

Yes, backpacks are allowed on Disney rides. Disney parks do not offer any type of cubby bag storage at each individual ride like some parks do, however, there is locker storage if you would like something for the day.

Sometimes you are cramming the backpack in the seat with you (I’m looking at you, Space Mountain), but we haven’t had any issues.

Best backpacks for Disney Summary

We hope this guide to buying the best backpack for Disney has been helpful.

With so many to choose from, decide what YOUR most important features are and go from there. You are sure to find something from this list.

If you enjoyed it, why not check out our articles on finding the best stroller for Disney, what to wear at Disney World in summer and getting the right shoes for theme park visits.

Need to keep this information for later? Please PIN it! Thank you!

Young girl leaning on a white rope carrying a red backpack to Disney with her back to the camera

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