Planning a trip to Legoland is exciting! But before you head off to a land filled with miniature masterpieces and thrilling rides, it’s crucial to pack wisely. A well-prepared bag can make the difference between a day of seamless fun and one plagued by discomfort and unmet needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to pack for a memorable day at Legoland, ensuring everyone in your family has a bricktastic time.
Essential Items for a Comfortable Visit
Comfort is key when you’re spending a full day exploring a theme park. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, standing in lines, and potentially getting wet, so prioritize items that will keep you feeling good all day long.
Clothing Considerations
The first step is choosing the right clothes. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. Think sneakers, athletic shoes, or supportive sandals designed for extended wear. Avoid wearing brand new shoes that haven’t been broken in, as blisters can quickly ruin your day.
Consider the weather forecast. Layers are your friend! Even on a sunny day, mornings and evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket, sweater, or hoodie is always a good idea. If rain is expected, pack a waterproof jacket or poncho. For hot days, opt for light-colored, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
Don’t forget a hat or visor to protect your face from the sun, and sunglasses to shield your eyes. If you plan on enjoying any of the water rides, consider packing a change of clothes, especially for younger children.
Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the sun is essential, especially during the warmer months. Sunscreen is a must-have, and it should be applied liberally and often throughout the day. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Consider packing a travel-sized sunscreen for easy reapplication on the go. Lip balm with SPF is also a good idea to protect your lips from sunburn.
Hydration is Key
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when you’re active and spending time outdoors. Bring a refillable water bottle that you can fill up at water fountains throughout the park.
While you can purchase drinks inside Legoland, bringing your own water bottle will save you money and ensure you always have access to hydration. Consider a water bottle with a built-in filter if you’re concerned about the water quality.
Snacks and Food
While Legoland offers a variety of food options, bringing your own snacks can save you money and provide healthier choices for your family. Pack non-perishable snacks like granola bars, fruit, crackers, and nuts.
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, bringing your own food is even more important. Consider packing a lunch or dinner in a cooler bag to save even more money. Just be sure to check Legoland’s guidelines regarding outside food and beverages.
Essentials for Children
Traveling with children requires extra preparation. Make sure you have everything you need to keep them comfortable, entertained, and safe throughout the day.
Diaper Bag Essentials
If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, a well-stocked diaper bag is essential. Pack plenty of diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream, and a changing pad.
Include extra clothes in case of accidents, as well as bibs and burp cloths. Don’t forget baby food, formula, or snacks, depending on your child’s needs. A small toy or blanket can also provide comfort and entertainment.
Entertainment for Waiting Times
Waiting in line is inevitable at Legoland, so it’s important to have some entertainment on hand to keep children occupied. Consider bringing small toys, books, or coloring books.
A portable gaming device or tablet can also be a lifesaver, but be mindful of battery life and potential distractions. Download some new games or movies before your trip to keep things fresh.
Safety Considerations
Keeping children safe is a top priority. Write your phone number on a piece of paper and place it in your child’s pocket or attach it to their clothing. This will help park staff contact you if your child gets lost.
Consider using a child locator wristband or GPS tracker to keep track of your child’s whereabouts. Teach your children to recognize park staff and to ask for help if they need it.
Gadgets and Technology
In today’s digital age, certain gadgets can enhance your Legoland experience and help you capture memories.
Camera and Accessories
A camera is essential for capturing all the fun moments of your Legoland trip. Whether it’s a smartphone camera or a dedicated digital camera, make sure it’s fully charged and ready to go.
Bring extra batteries or a portable charger to avoid running out of power. Consider bringing a selfie stick or tripod for group photos. Don’t forget to clear space on your memory card before your trip to ensure you have plenty of room for new photos and videos.
Portable Charger
A portable charger is a lifesaver, especially if you’re relying on your smartphone for navigation, photos, and communication. Choose a charger with enough capacity to fully charge your devices multiple times.
Consider a charger with multiple USB ports so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. Don’t forget to bring the necessary charging cables for your devices.
Navigation Tools
While Legoland provides maps, having a digital map on your smartphone can be helpful for navigating the park and finding attractions. Download the Legoland app before your trip for park maps, ride wait times, and show schedules.
Consider using a GPS app to track your location and find the most efficient routes between attractions. Be sure to download offline maps in case you don’t have reliable internet access.
Health and First Aid
Being prepared for minor medical issues can prevent them from derailing your day.
First Aid Kit Essentials
Pack a small first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and motion sickness medication. Include any prescription medications you or your family members take regularly.
Consider adding blister treatment, insect repellent, and sunscreen to your first aid kit. A small pair of scissors or tweezers can also be useful.
Allergy Considerations
If you or your family members have allergies, be sure to pack any necessary medications, such as antihistamines or epinephrine auto-injectors. Read food labels carefully and be aware of potential allergens in food sold at Legoland.
Inform park staff of any allergies when ordering food. Consider bringing your own allergy-friendly snacks and meals to avoid potential cross-contamination.
Motion Sickness Prevention
If you or your family members are prone to motion sickness, take precautions before riding any of the more intense attractions. Take motion sickness medication before entering the park, and avoid riding rides on a full stomach.
Focus on the horizon while riding, and avoid reading or looking down. Ginger candies or gum can also help alleviate motion sickness symptoms.
Money and Documents
Having the necessary money and documents will ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Cash and Credit Cards
While Legoland accepts credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases or emergencies. Consider bringing small bills for vending machines or tips.
Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards being declined. Keep your cash and credit cards in a secure location, such as a wallet or money belt.
Identification and Tickets
Bring a valid photo ID for all adults in your group. If you purchased your tickets online, be sure to print them out or have them readily available on your smartphone.
Consider making copies of your important documents, such as your driver’s license and passport, and storing them in a separate location.
Emergency Contact Information
Keep a list of emergency contact information with you at all times. Include phone numbers for family members, doctors, and your hotel.
Consider downloading a medical ID app on your smartphone that contains your medical information and emergency contacts.
Miscellaneous Items
These items may not be essential, but they can definitely enhance your Legoland experience.
Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer are essential for keeping your hands clean throughout the day, especially after riding rides or eating snacks.
Pack a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer that you can easily carry in your bag. Wet wipes are also useful for cleaning up spills or messes.
Plastic Bags
Plastic bags can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as storing wet clothes, separating dirty items, or protecting electronics from water damage.
Bring a few different sizes of plastic bags to accommodate various items. Consider using reusable plastic bags to reduce waste.
Small Toys or Activities
Bring a small toy or activity to keep children entertained while waiting in line or during downtime. Consider a small Lego set or a travel-sized game.
A coloring book or sticker book can also provide hours of entertainment. Choose activities that are quiet and won’t disturb other guests.
Packing for a day at Legoland doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable, enjoyable, and bricktastic day! Remember to prioritize comfort, safety, and preparedness, and you’ll be well on your way to creating lasting memories with your family. Now go, build your adventure!
What type of bag is best to bring to Legoland?
Lightweight backpacks are ideal for Legoland. Look for one with multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. Choose a water-resistant or waterproof option to protect your items from unexpected splashes on water rides or sudden rain showers.
Avoid oversized bags that may be cumbersome to carry and could restrict your movement in crowded areas or on rides. A comfortable backpack allows you to keep your hands free for interacting with LEGO creations, enjoying the attractions, and managing children. Consider one with padded straps to prevent shoulder strain during a long day of fun.
What kind of shoes are recommended for a visit to Legoland?
Comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must for a day at Legoland. You’ll be spending a significant amount of time on your feet, exploring the park’s many attractions, waiting in lines, and walking between themed areas. Choose supportive sneakers or walking shoes that you’ve already broken in to avoid blisters and foot fatigue.
Avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops, or high heels, as they can be uncomfortable and even dangerous on some rides or uneven surfaces. Consider packing an extra pair of socks in case your feet get wet, especially if you plan on enjoying the water park or water-based attractions.
Should I bring sunscreen and a hat to Legoland?
Yes, sunscreen and a hat are essential items to pack for a day at Legoland, especially during the warmer months. Sun protection is crucial for preventing sunburn and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin areas before you arrive and reapply throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.
A wide-brimmed hat provides additional shade for your face, neck, and ears, further reducing your risk of sunburn. Consider sunglasses as well to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still penetrate the clouds, so it’s important to prioritize sun safety.
Are there any specific items I should bring for children visiting Legoland?
For children, packing familiar comfort items can be beneficial. A favorite small toy, blanket, or book can provide reassurance and entertainment, especially during wait times or when they need a break. Include any necessary medications, such as allergy medicine or pain relievers, along with instructions for administration.
Additionally, pack extra changes of clothes, particularly if your child is prone to accidents or plans to enjoy the water play areas. Wet wipes or hand sanitizer are useful for keeping hands clean, and snacks are essential for preventing meltdowns and keeping energy levels up throughout the day.
Can I bring my own food and drinks into Legoland?
Legoland’s policy on outside food and drinks can vary, so it’s always best to check their official website before your visit. Generally, they allow small snacks and bottled water, but large coolers or picnic lunches may not be permitted. This is to encourage visitors to purchase food and beverages from the park’s restaurants and vendors.
However, exceptions are often made for guests with dietary restrictions or medical conditions. If you have specific needs, it’s advisable to contact Legoland’s guest services in advance to inquire about their policies and ensure you can bring the necessary food and drinks for your visit.
Is a portable charger necessary for a day at Legoland?
A portable charger is highly recommended for a day at Legoland. You’ll likely be using your phone frequently for taking photos, checking ride wait times on the Legoland app, navigating the park, and communicating with family and friends. All of these activities can quickly drain your phone’s battery.
Having a portable charger ensures you won’t run out of power and miss out on capturing memorable moments or staying connected. Choose a charger with enough capacity to fully recharge your phone at least once, and consider bringing a charging cable as well.
What should I do if I forget something important at home?
Don’t panic if you forget something important! Legoland parks typically have stores where you can purchase common items like sunscreen, hats, phone chargers, and even basic clothing. While these items might be more expensive than if you’d brought them from home, they can be lifesavers in a pinch.
Check with guest services for assistance. They might be able to provide temporary solutions for lost items or direct you to the appropriate store or service within the park. They can also offer information on lost and found procedures if you realize something is missing later in the day.