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I carry a sling pack, it's comfortable and holds just enough for me and it isn't heavy and it packs flat for a suitcase or carry-on. This link will take you to the one I have and after watching me with it my teenage son had me get one for him for Disney/Universal trips. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015PTB94Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_4J8Y9KZ410TPBVQH4VVE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Feet hurting themepark enthusiast here. I got you.
I buy fresh shoes for trips. Running shoes for high stability and comfort. My go tos are New Balance 1080s. I wear 1 new pair and the rotate out the next day. This worked well for our 8 day trip (if I do this again, I'm getting 3 pairs not just 2).
Fresh, good socks are a must. I've heard of people doing hiking or speciality socks. Something to consider for next time. Can confirm, a fresh pair mid day does help.
I also bring a pair of emergency foldable shoes in my purse. They pack down small and I break em out if it's been a long day and the sneakers just don't cut it. Definitely help if you really need to switch but these things are truly emergency shoes only - wouldn't wear them more an hour on the way back to the hotel or car.
Don't forget painkillers and hydrate all day.
Last but not least, friendly reminder that humans are designed to move not stand still. Walking around the parks is infinitely preferable than standing in line for hours. Try to keep moving, it will help.
1: I haven't stayed at Aventura but according to Universal's website:
Guest Rooms
Complimentary* wireless internet access in each guest room and most common areas of the hotel
Coffee maker
Convenience outlets to keep all your devices charged
Hairdryer
HVAC controls connected to Smart Room technology
In-room safe
Iron, ironing board
Mini refrigerator
One flat panel television with HD channels and on-demand in-room movies (fees apply)
Shampoo, conditioner, body soap and facial soap
Two queen-size beds or one king-size bed
Two-compartment bathroom (singular): compartment one contains toilet and tub/shower combination or shower; compartment two contains a sink and vanity
Upgrade to Premium Plus^ wireless internet access for optimal entertainment and business needs
Universal's Aventura Hotel complies with the ADA Act
2: the lines can definitely vary. easy to find or central locations can get super long. When i do a fanny pack i carry a water bottle that folds up like this so i can fill it periodically but when i'm going on a ride that requires lockers i can finish/empty it and tuck it away.
3: to drop off your luggage you basically go to the hotel, find the bell services folks (they might be outside or you might need to go inside and find a counter) and it works like coat check. you'll give them your luggage and they'll attach a tag to it, then give you another tag that has the same number(s). when you go back to the hotel you can either pick up your luggage and check-in, or check-in, go to your room, and call bell services from there. it can take a little bit of time but they can usually bring the luggage right up for you.
I haven't been to a theme park in awhile but I do stand on concrete floors all day at work and the only shoes I've found to make my days more comfortable are these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N5JH1OK/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_8?smid=A2NEM58BFPMEIL&th=1&psc=1
I really wish I could tell you for sure, but I have not been back, and haven't used any other their other virtual lines in the past. I do know they are reserved through the Official Universal Orlando App
This from Universal's Website might help, but it would probably be best to call and ask.
I have heard though, that you can have up to 2 virtual line tickets at once, and after the end time, your ticket does expire and is removed from your queue. Also, the virtual tickets for Hagrids apparently go quickly and are reservable near or before opening
Fellow glasses wearer here. You can get straps for your glasses to keep them attached. I also just put them in my pocket as I am about to bored (my pockets always have a zipper or button)
Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Reliance-Safego-Outside-Portable-Security/dp/B01MR44KI3/ref=mp_s_a_1_18?keywords=portable+lock+box&qid=1669643755&sr=8-18
Like a small box with a bike lock, so you can clip it to your chair and lock your phone inside while on rides.
>I might pack a small rain jacket
January in Florida is the dry season. Typically the only rainfall we see that time of year is brought in by cold/cool fronts moving through. Check the Orlando 10-day forecast before you leave and you will have an idea of if you are going to get rain or not while you are here.
I am assuming you are coming from out of state...if not, you probably already know this about the weather!
I have this great R2D2 lanyard I bought a few years ago. For the pass itself, I use this:
LIUGX Badge Holder / Card Holder... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XMSWGGK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I also put my DL and my debit card in there. Works like a champ. Don’t even carry my wallet into the parks.
We just got back from the parks and I was looking for the same thing. I ended up purchasing a musical conductors traveling zipper case that held and protected 3 wands great. It was definitely better than using three separate boxes since it was much easier to take them in/out. Here’s the the link to the one I got, 25$ and I’m thinking of making some custom 3d-printed inserts for the next time to hold the wands separately which would be even better. Surprised to find that there’s was no official solution for this.
https://www.amazon.com/Meclizine-Generic-Chewable-Tablets-Rugby/dp/B00EMLC07O
I used these the last time I was down and never got motion sick like I used to. I was taking two on my way to the park and it worked great.
I got this one recently! I have a few and it's the best quality and size for theme parks. I like my runner's belts, but this is more water-proof and can hold a collapsible water bottle. *I used to think collapsible water bottles were overrated, but bypassing lockers is pretty nice when you're booking it to Hagrid's at EPA, lol.
MAXTOP Large Fanny Pack with... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095LQP1GM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Have you ever tried a runners belt? My wife and I have used them for close to 8 years now at various theme parks. They are 3 pronged, most are water resistant some even water proof, and they can fit under your shirt easily.
I have used this one for 5 years now.
I'd estimate I use that one at theme parks probably 30 days per year, typically all day each time. I also use it for other things (like running, kayaking, hiking). For theme parks, I typically can put my phone, wallet, car key, hand sanitizer, Dramamine, and Slim Jim's in mine. My wife typically puts her phone, various snacks, Chapstick, (and femine products if needed) in hers. We went to Universal 7 days straight with them once, and had zero problems. One time, we rode River Adventure, Blutos Bilge Rat Barges and Ripsaw Falls all in a row. That's the only time the inside of the pack ever felt damp but the cash in my wallet was still dry inside. I ride every water ride in every park we go in with it and it's been dry every other time.
- I almost always wear exclusively dresses at the parks, so I think a skirt will be totally fine. I would recommend getting biker shorts or anti-chaffing products to help with thigh chaffing since it's humid + a lot of walking.
- My sister had a very small fanny pack that she could hide under her shirt for this exact reason! She got on every ride with it under her shirt.
- I don't recall ever having an issue with my glasses on any of the rides. I will say rip rocket specifically has a metal detector, so you won't be able to bring anything on bag/phone wise. I would just wear your glasses and if you're feeling uncertain to take them off and hold them. Maybe get a glasses string that you can wear as a necklace? Do you have a pair of backup glasses you can bring + store in the bag if something were to happen?
I hope you have a great time!! I've been too many times for any sane person, so feel free to DM me if you need any help :)
Bring a small camelbak. Stick a tiny handheld fan in there, the ones with the folding blades. You can also fit some sunscreen, wipes, whatever else you need in there. To top it off, you can securely slide a harry potter wand into the gap where the drinking tube comes out at the top.
AS u/buckeyechik suggested, carrying ponchos gets annoying. Personally I just embrace it. You're going to get wet on the Jurassic Park River Adventure (maybe) and definitely on the Pluto's Barge...and being wet will feel good with the "Feels like 103" degree weather. So wear things that will quick dry...wicking t-shirts. Swimsuits. For shoes I now only wear these water shoes - they're comfortable enough like sneakers for all day but water goes right through them like sandals.
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For my day, I plan on getting wet. If it's not the rain, it'll be the water rides. The only downside to the rain is that the fast coasters can make rain drops feel like hail. So I plan for the indoor stuff in the afternoons. Aim for the Bourne Stunt show and Horror Make Up show between 2 and 5 along with the other indoor rides. Do all the outdoor stuff before and after.
Seriously. My wife and I each had one of these on our weekend trip and used them several times for cold water at the coke freestyle machines — they’re food grade silicone, don’t leak at all including when they were placed into the VC / Hagrids lockers on their sides and roll-up into themselves when empty. Super convenient and saved us a ton of money throughout the trip!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XR78RKK?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_7AZKGVWQCVSDVS2X9RA1
Hydration for sure! We bring Hydroflasks in shoulder slings and refill them with ice water for free at the Freestyle machines. Also my wife, the genius, bought a set of clear tubes with lids like these and we fill several of them with different flavors of powdered Gatorade. They’re small and with almost nothing, and we put one in with each water refill. Voila! Bringing an empty Hydroflask and half a pound of drink mix keeps us hydrated all day. :)
There's an Island's of Adventure one on Amazon that might be available somewhere: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GELY6J0/ref=aod_recommendations_asins_pageSource_desktop_fod_widget_title_0
You can also call merchandise services: 1-888-762-0820
This is how we were able to replace a ring we bought in Daigon Alley.
As everyone mentioned - it's definitely still worth going. Most of the time the rain is only for an hour or so, definitely check the hourly weather that morning so you can plan the day better. Most of the outdoor rides shut down for lightning but will continue to run if it's just rain. Although in my opinion that's still a bad option, I did Hagrid's in the rain and it's not a great experience. The rain can feel like hail at high speed.
Keep in mind that Universal has a lot of indoor options as well, and the Islands of Adventure park has water rides. So come planning to get wet whether it's because of the rain or the Jurassic Park River Adventure or both at the same time. Hit the indoor rides during the actual rain, and appreciate how much emptier the park is after the rain because many people leave.
Ponchos are popular with the tourists but I don't get it. It's way too hot to be hiding under plastic insulation. I personally bring a water proof fanny pack which is also allowed on many (not all) rides so you can avoid lockers. When it rains or I go on the water rides, I take my socks off and usually keep them off the rest of the day unless my shoes get dry enough to put them back on. But I also wear water-sneakers so the shoes are really a non-issue. These things have changed my theme park life experience dramatically! They're comfortable enough for the miles of walking and perfect for the rain or water environment and dry quick so I can have my socks back in no time.
Yes. My wife and I use them for all amusement parks including Universal. We still took them off for the metal detector rides but wore them on everything else. We keep ours under our shirts and you can barely see them. Everything inside stayed dry after riding all 3 water rides. I keep my phone, a front pocket wallet, Dramamine, and hand sanitizer in mine. My wife keeps her phone and snacks (Slim Jim's, fruit snacks, etc) in hers. Below are the links for the 2 we have. I'd recommend both. We have also bought these for other people who have also been pleased with them.
We used these lanyards for our express passes last month, worked great for us! Teskyer Clear ID Badge Holder with Lanyard, Waterproof Extra Thick Plastic ID Card Holder with Resealable Zip, 2.5" x 3.5" Inner Size, Vertical Style, Set of 3, Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0991QZSFB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_KN7VVXDWFWQ18SP7958J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If you need recommendations for shorts to wear under dresses/skirts as well, these are amazing. I wore them For the first time ever at the park a few weeks ago. They breathe and don’t ride up, roll down, or twist on your legs. Plus they’re just long enough to help, but not too long. I wore them after wearing a pair of cotton shorts the previous day that killed me.
BESTENA Slip Shorts Womens Comfortable Seamless Smooth Slip Shorts for Under Dresses https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T5K5GL1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_30TF3XK5XXM0TJHF0ZPT?psc=1
I wore these when we were there last June: https://www.amazon.com/MOTEEPI-Pockets-Workout-Athletic-Gypsophila/dp/B09DFYFSXZ/ref=sr_1_13?crid=3L9CGZ63VA8FS&keywords=skort&qid=1650846358&sprefix=skort%2Caps%2C116&sr=8-13&th=1&psc=1
They are light and summery and dry like a dream if it rains or you go on a water ride. The biker shorts underneath protect your thighs and have pockets! Since that trip this has become my summer go to.
I wear the Heathyyoga Yoga pants I got on amazon. I bought the capri and long versions and absolutely love them. They are thicker, so no see through awkward moments! I didn't feel like I was overheating in them either. I think they also have biker shorts, but haven't tried 'em!
Heathyoga Yoga Pants for Women with Pockets High Waisted Leggings with Pockets for Women Workout Leggings for Women https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089R5ZFB7/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_DZA4EC0TNZNX94Q11DZ1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1.
I also bought Jockey Generation Wicking Slipshorts to wear under dresses and can't wear dresses without them now. They have short ones that maybe you can wear under shorts?
NAOKI LOVE Waist Pack Bag Ultrathin Hide Purse Outdoor Sports Jogging Travel Runner Belt with Credit Card Protector Slots https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00Q50CY1C/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_DZHM42Y4KFVT44880Q2H?psc=1
I've had this one for 5 years now, and it's still doing great! The reviews on Amazon are awesome.
We go to multiple theme parks per year and have always used runners belts. They are thin enough that my wife and I both wear them under our shirts. I keep my phone, hand sanitizer, car key, and Slim Jim's in mine. She keeps her phone, hand sanitizer, chapstick, and other various snacks in hers. They are very secure and we have ridden every ride at Universal with them under our shirts except for the rides with metal detectors. We rode Popeye and Blutos, Rip Saw, and JP River Adventure with them and nothing inside got wet. They are water/sweat resistant. We paid less than $10 each for ours. Mine has been going strong for 5 years now and my wife has had hers for 4 years now. They have survived multiple park season passes for Cedar Fair Parks, 10 days at Disney, and Universal Orlando season passes. and have seen plenty of use. This is the one we have and I would highly recommend it:
I used drowsy free Dramamine:
https://www.amazon.com/Dramamine-Non-Drowsy-Naturals-Natural-Ginger/dp/B00SD9IE9O
I take one tablet when I Get in ride for the ride of the day and am generally okay. (I'm good for 1 or 2 rides w/o that, though).
I've heard that Ginger Capsules could have the same affect.
Team Fanny pack. You can leave it on on the rides too. Get a thin one like this: Slim Minimalist Design RFID Money Belt with RFID Blocking Sleeves, for Men and Women – Ideal for Keeping Your Cash, Credit Card, Passport, Phone Safe When Traveling https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4QX1YQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TJ0558VQX1N9SWQ0W09M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I ordered these from Amazon for our trip last May. They worked out perfectly. The straps are adjustable and can go to 42 inches. Amazon cup holder
I use this sling bag from Pacsafe. On the pricier side, but I love the safety features, has many compartments, is super durable, and can pack quite a bit in a small form factor.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K7NM7MJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_399BA2B6A40N3TQT9137?psc=1
This is what I use, carries a folded poncho, phone battery bank and cords, a small snack and I put a water bottle in the elastic mesh. It's "water resistant" but I hit mine with outdoor furniture scotch guard to help it out. I use this in all the parks and my teenage son uses one as well. It's cross body and I'm 5'10" 230lbs and it fits me fine. When you pull it to the front from the back the pocket zippers face up so nothing spills out while you are rummaging through the pockets. I have taken this to Europe, multiple amusement parks (it's great for those that require lockers for their rides). WATERFLY Chest Sling Shoulder Backpacks Bags Crossbody Rope Triangle Rucksack for Hiking https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015PTB94Q/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_R8HB326A58Z2B8V5D1VP?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Looks like it’s currently out of stock but I bought one of these backpacks. Compact, lightweight, dries quickly, and depending on what you’re carrying should be able to squeeze into lockers
Amazon Basics Ultralight Portable Packable Day Pack https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01AIVT2AE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MW550A8JR84CMSVERDJQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I have problem feet. Arch pain and Achilles tendonitis. I found these to be supportive and comfy. Can get wet too.
This is what I use and I have ridden Velocicoaster about 10 times now with my sunglasses on, as well as all of the rides at both Universal parks and have never had any problem with them coming off.
Eye Glasses String Holder Straps - Sports Sunglasses Strap for Men Women - Eyeglass Holders Around Neck - Glasses Retainer Cord Chains Lanyards https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T2WBVDB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_H5DV96G1JCNEXKYFBNHW
You can buy those glasses straps that go around your head.. they don't look the coolest but it's an option 😁
You can also buy silicone ear grips. I don't know if I would trust them for the faster coasters tho. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088MFYGCR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_44HMCFY4ZGS75MYZY3Z8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
As a fellow RavenClaw, I found this shirt off Amazon to be good (I have the tie dye one specifically) RavenClaw shirt
This doesn’t answer your question but I bought a swim shirt from Amazon before my trip to Volcano Bay. It worked super well and was pretty decently priced, plus getting here within two days was helpful when I was worried about it. I got burned super bad the time before and didn’t want to be in just a swimsuit all day. I can’t confirm but I do feel like there was some rule about no street clothes in the water. This was at Volcano Bay though, not the hotel pool. Kanu Surf Swim Shirt
Jurassic Park has a good amount of the area under construction due to a new coaster they are build. Fortunately though, the River Adventure and Flyers rides are unaffected currently (past maybe some dirty water on river adventure).
If you are wanting to see the Wizarding world stuff, definitely suggest the park 2 park, and if you go in march, the express pass too (spring breaks and Mardi Gras celebration drives attendance way up. See here for crowd calendar estimates). Also the crowd calendar has opening hours, which might effect when you want to visit so you have the most time possible to enjoy.
As for park size and rides, I suggest downloading the Universal Orlando App so you can get an Idea of what you want to ride and wait times once you get closer to your trip date. Youtube also has some good POV videos of a lot of the rides and coasters to give you an idea and what you want to ride and what you want to skip.
We use this
We are annual pass holder in the park about 20 days per year. This folds flat so you can scrunch it up to fit in the free lockers and the side pockets are big enough to hold the refillable cups. It holds all of our phones and sunglasses plus ponchos, sunscreen, emergency medicine (tums, aspirin, ibuprofen, etc)
It is super lightweight so easy to carry all day and somewhat waterproof
I found that 1L (34 Oz) each was great for my wife and I, while the kids each had the 500 ml (17 Oz). We stayed in a hotel and I just filled them up with the free water bottles we had- also purchased a case of water locally. A collapsible silicone funnel like this made filling way easier. Stored them in our mini fridge over night. https://www.amazon.com/KOPEESY-Silicone-Collapsible-Flexible-Foldable/dp/B0897YRC71
We got some fold up bags on amazon. They would compact down to go into a pocket if need be. Not much cushion, but super light weight. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DNGELIO/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_FD5oEb4QD3Z4H
I don't recall ever seeing them for sale anywhere in the park. Honestly though, I would just try Amazon - it would probably be cheaper.
Is this what you're looking for?
https://www.amazon.com/Lapel-Pin-Locking-Backs-Keepers/dp/B007IU94Z2
Small foldable/packable backpack.
More room than you first described but this will hold your sandals and also water. Because of the thin walls it smushes into lockers easily.
> You can save on the wand by ordering it off Amazon. They sell Hermoines interactive for $40.
Says $66. Where are you seeing 40
I took two of these to Disney and they worked great. Outlander Packable Handy Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack Similar to the Lewis & Clark someone mentioned. Held a ginormous amount of stuff. I packed snacks and essentials in different clear baggies so bag check was a breeze. Have a great trip!
I just used this bag for 5 days in the parks. 20 bucks and I loved it. My friend with a Kavu likes that this one can be worn on either side because the strap can be unclipped. It has a good sized and deep water bottle pocket that my bottle never fell out of the way it has in my North Face backpack and a lot of other great pockets as well, including a some "hidden"-ish low profile ones like a money/card pocket on the strap that is EXTREMELY convenient and I got a lot of compliments on it. It has a very similar profile to a Kavu, but way more customizable and comfortable. And no issues fitting it in lockers, even the smaller sized lockers in the Mummy locker area.