The Best Backpacks for Disney and Other Theme Parks, From Character Bags to Versatile Powerhouses

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Packing for a day at Disney or another theme park is sort of like suiting up for battle: You are likely to encounter intense physical conditions over long stretches of time in the elements, and your comfort (and your very survival?) depends on your preparedness. Do bring water, hand sanitizer, SPF, layers, lip balm and all the other essentials — whatever that means to you and your traveling group.

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To keep all your key items contained, pack them into a backpack for comfortable weight distribution across both shoulders and secure stowage close to your body. Our list contains the 12 best backpacks for Disney and other theme parks, whether you’re into whimsical character-driven gear or versatile, functionality-first packs you can take everywhere else, too.

Related: The Best Backpacks for Work and School, From Designer Bags to Eco-Conscious Carry-ons

BEST OVERALL

Jansport SuperBreak One Backpack

$33.18 $38.00 13% off

Buy at Amazon

It’s iconic: This Jansport backpack has a timeless classic look, right for all ages and genders. Made from 600 denier fabric, this casual daypack is strong and durable, with sturdy zippers and a coated interior. It comes in 15 colors and prints.

BEST BACKPACK WITH CHARGER

Supacool Lightweight Charging Backpack

$24.99 at Amazon

These days, Disney and other theme parks require connectivity. You use your smartphone to join virtual queues, estimate wait times, order food, and so much more. That drains smartphone batteries fast, so have a plan for on-the-go charging. This backpack has a built-in USB charger outside and a built-in charging cable inside, so it’s super convenient for powering up your phone while you walk.

BEST LARGE BACKPACK

Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack

$95 at Herschel

Herschel’s versatile 25-liter Pop Quiz backpack with a classic silhouette is constructed from 100 percent recycled post-consumer water bottles, both in its exterior and signature striped lining fabrics. Padded shoulder straps distribute weight for comfortable all-day carrying through the theme park, and a water bottle pocket expands to fit various sizes. Plus, side storage sleeves keep essentials at the ready.

Related: The 10 Best Essentials to Pack for Disneyland and Other Warm-Weather Theme Parks

BEST DISNEY-THEMED BACKPACK

Disney Classic Characters Denim Backpack

$17.99 $29.99 40% off

buy at Disney Store

This denim backpack embroidered with small characters (Alice, Pinocchio, Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Dumbo, Simba and more) is the understated pack you need when you want to nod to Disney without going over the top. (The understatement makes it more feasible for everyday use outside of theme parks, too.) It features an exterior front pocket, side mesh pocket and an inside laptop compartment.

BEST WATER-RESISTANT BACKPACK

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

$195 at Away

This water-resistant nylon backpack holds its own on water rides — or wherever else this versatile pack might take you. It has a comfy, breathable mesh back panel plus a full wraparound zip opening for access to the roomy main compartment. (There’s also a padded 15-inch laptop pocket inside in case you need to duck into a corner somewhere to take a camera-off Zoom call: Always-on multitaskers, you know who you are.)

BEST DISNEY-THEMED BACKPACK

Loungefly Mickey Mouse Woven Mini Backpack

$89 at DIsney Store

Loungefly makes the backpack of choice for frequent Disney goers in the know. This one is all the way on-brand, but still understated. Three-dimensional ears Disnify the all-black bag with a woven design in simulated leather. There’s a front-zip pocket for securing essentials, plus side slip pockets and a large main compartment.

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

$155-$215 at Dagne Dover

This vegan and water-resistant neoprene backpack from the brand known for maximizing organization has a cool scuba-inspired look, with a ton of thoughtful pockets for organization: an air mesh tablet sleeve, two air mesh interior pockets, two zipper exterior pockets, plus a key leash. It’s also washable, which is a major plus after a sweaty, sugary day at the park.

BEST PADDED BACKPACK

Calpak Luka Mini Backpack

$72 at Calpak

This mini backpack has a puffy exterior that’s soft and lightweight to wear. Adjustable shoulder straps help you customize the fit, and multiple pockets help with organization. The lining is water resistant for any snack or liquid mishaps. There’s also a luggage pass-through sleeve for travel.

Disney x Kate Spade New York Minnie Backpack

$159 $379 58% off

buy at Kate Spade Outlet

This polka-dotted backpack for the polished Disney adult has a red Minnie bow, and is made of real grain leather with a jacquard lining. It has an interior back-zip pocket and a flap with a magnetic top closure. Best of all, this bag is marked down 58%, making it a no-brainer for value.

BEST TRAVEL-FRIENDLY BACKPACK

State Lorimer Backpack

$88 $110 20% off

buy at State

This bag is lightweight and durable, done in water-resistant nylon. Although it has a streamlined silhouette without many external bells and whistles, its gold-tone hardware elevates the look and sets it apart. This pack also has a luggage slip sleeve so you can travel with it easily.

BEST DESIGNER BACKPACK

Disney x Coach Bag With Patches

$595 at Coach

This is the outlier bag on our list for price point — but serious Disneyphiles will consider it a worthy investment with years (even decades) of utility. The glove-tanned leather bag features nostalgic Disney patches, and the interior has a padded tech sleeve and pockets for keeping your essentials well organized.

BEST FOR TRAVELING WITH BABIES

Petunia Pickle Bottom Method Backpack

$179 at Petunia Pickle bottom

Heading out for a day at the park with wee ones? This backpack is ideal for parents of infants, with three open interior pockets for a wipes case, changing pad, diapers, and extra organization, plus a zippered interior pocket. And there are four large exterior pockets, two with insulation that are perfect for bottles — that’s 10 pockets in all. The vegan leather pack also includes a washable changing pad and wipes clean.

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