Park Essentials for a Day at Universal Studios

Theme Park Laura activated!

After many (MANY) visits to Universal Orlando Resort, I have finally figured out the best way to carry items around the park. I used to always carry a backpack so I could have water and my wand with me, but I’ve come to appreciate the versatility that comes with being footloose and fancy free (in the words of Rick Steves) with a fanny pack.

I have tried a couple different ones, including the Luka Belt Bag from Calpak and the Ace Fanny Pack from Dagne Dover. The fanny pack I have been using the most and enjoyed is the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. It comes in the cheapest of the three at $38, is easy to adjust so it can be worn either around the waist of cross body, and fits a good amount of stuff for the size.

Here’s what I keep in my fanny pack for a typical park day:

• Hand sanitizer - we usually stay on property at Sapphire Falls and since 2020, they’ve started leaving a small bottle in each room.

• Shout wipes (somewhat spill-prone over here)

• Tissues

• Portable charger and cord - the one pictured is very old but I found this one which is similar in charging capabilities and has a built-in power cord, which means one less thing to have to carry!

• Lip balm - bonus points if it has SPF in it!

• Hair ties

• Sunglasses

• Hand lotion - this is my favorite hydrating but non greasy lotion.

• Face sunscreen - I love Supergroup’s Unseen Sunscreen and they now have a small “try-it” sampler at Sephora that has tubes the perfect size to carry with you.

• Annual pass, credit card, driver’s license

• iPhone

Another perk of wearing a fanny pack is that, with very few exceptions (Hulk, Rip Ride Rockit, Velocicoaster) a fanny pack can be work on the rides, which means that you will spend less time in the locker area before and after the rides and thus maximizing your park time.