Planning your dream trip to Universal’s Epic Universe? This brand-new theme park is packed with jaw-dropping lands, thrilling rides, and immersive experiences but it also comes with Florida weather, long park days, and plenty of walking. Having the right items in your bag can make all the difference between a stressful day and a magical one!
I’ve already shared my Universal’s Epic Universe Family Guide where you can find all of my secret tips to the perfect day at Epic Universe. Or, check out one of my Epic Universe posts where I share the hidden gems you don’t want to miss in each land.
Now, here’s everything you’ll want to pack to stay cool, comfortable, and ready for every adventure Epic Universe has to offer:
Table of Contents
What to Pack for Epic Universe
1. Refillable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated without constantly shelling out for bottled water. Epic Universe has Coca-Cola Freestyle machines throughout most of the park where you can refill for free (note: Wizarding World does not have these machines, so fill up before heading in!).
Not a fan of plain water? My family loves adding these electrolyte packets to their water…not only do they keep you hydrated, but there’s zero sugar! Plus, unlike other electrolyte drinks, these don’t have a funky aftertaste, they are really good!
My favorite water bottle for the parks is this one because it really does keep the drinks cold ALL DAY, it doesn’t sweat with condensation, it fits perfectly in a small backpack, the mouthpiece folds inside so no risk of coming in contact with germs. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s totally worth it in my opinion.
2. The BEST in Personal Cooling Devices
Florida’s sun is no joke. There are so many personal cooling devices to choose from now that it can be difficult to figure out what will work and what won’t work. I’ve found the best personal cooling devices for Florida theme parks are the simple ones that are easy to pack. I share a complete list of Ways to Stay Cool at Epic Universe including a run through of personal cooling devices. But, these are the ones that I always pack:
Bring a small umbrella, not for rain, but to create instant shade while standing in outdoor queues. Bonus: it doubles as rain protection during afternoon showers. I like this mini umbrella because it folds up super small to fit in a backpack or crossbody, it has a UV rating of 50, and it’s very lightweight.
A rechargeable handheld fan is another great option for cooling down on the go. Personally, I love this misting fan to cool down, add a few ice cubes to the water and you’ll be cool as can be!
Believe it or not, these cooling towels actually work! Simply get them wet, snap them a few times, and place on your face and neck for an instant cool down.
3. Comfortable Walking Shoes
You’ll be clocking thousands of steps a day, so wear broken-in, breathable sneakers or sandals with good support. Avoid brand-new shoes unless you want to risk painful blisters (trust me, no one wants that during vacation).
4. Lightweight Clothing & Layers
Dress for heat, but be prepared for sudden temperature changes when going from blazing sun to air-conditioned attractions. Moisture-wicking shirts, breathable fabrics, and a light jacket or hoodie for indoor dining areas or nighttime shows are a smart combo.
If your kids are like mine, and the are immediately cold once our food arrives at a restaurant, these Turkish towels are perfect. They fold up small, have a carrying bag that can be attached to your backpack. You can wrap them around the kids like a lightweight blanket.
5. Sunscreen & Lip Balm with SPF
Whether you burn easily or not, the Florida sun can be brutal over the course of the day. Pack a travel-size sunscreen for reapplying and a good lip balm with SPF to prevent painful sunburns on your lips.
6. Ponchos
Florida weather is unpredictable, quick pop-up storms are common in the afternoons. Pack a lightweight poncho or compact rain jacket to avoid having to buy overpriced ones in the park when the rain hits. You can grab the cheap plastic disposable ones at any dollar store, but those always make me feel more hot and gross than just going without. Instead, if there’s rain in the forecast, I recommend tossing this poncho in your backpack. It’s lightweight, breathable, and actually keeps the rain out.
7. Portable Charger or Power Bank
Between snapping photos, navigating the Universal Orlando app, and checking wait times, your phone battery will drain quickly. A portable power bank is essential for keeping devices charged all day long.
I like this portable charger because it has the cord built right in, and it has enough battery life to charge my phone twice.
Bonus Tip: Download the Universal Orlando App
While not a “packable” item, don’t forget to download the official app before your trip. It gives you access to ride wait times, mobile ordering, park maps, show schedules, and more, making your day easier and more efficient.
Read On for More Epic Universe Orlando TIPS:
- Universal’s Epic Universe ULTIMATE Family Guide
- Hidden Gems at Dark Universe in Epic Universe
- Hidden Gems of Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe
- Hidden Gems Ministry of Magic Epic Universe
- Hidden Gems at The Isle of Berk in Epic Universe
