6 Things You Must Wear to Keep Cool on a Hot Day at Disney

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Epcot World Showcase Japan Torii behind a black chain link fence with water and huts in the background.
Epcot’s Japan Pavilion in World Showcase. Photo Credit: Emily Caldwell

As a Disney World Annual Passholder, I’ve conquered Disney World during every season. Though brutally hot, many families with young children can only visit during the summer. Even though everyone tells you about the brutally hot weather, you won’t truly understand it until you arrive. These best clothes for hot days at Disney will keep you cool and comfortable.

Why does wardrobe matter?

Staying Cool at Disney World

China at Epcot World ShowcaseWalkway and garden area entering the China area at Epcot, showing the heavenly gate to China
China Pavilion at Epcot World Showcase. Photo Credit: Emily Caldwell

I can sometimes tolerate Florida’s hot and humid weather, especially in the pool, at the waterpark, or while sitting still. However, I walk 8 to 10 miles daily during my Walt Disney World vacations. That said, staying cool at Disney World isn’t a matter of winning a fashion contest. Instead, focus on selecting cute and comfortable clothing.

A comfortable vacation leads to a more enjoyable one. Given the astronomical price of a WDW vacation, I believe you owe it to yourself to stay cool and comfortable at any cost.

WDW trips mean tons of photos, so you’ll want to look your best! Avoid looking frumpy by investing in cool, comfy activewear. Find pieces that flatter, fit well and breathe for your adventure.

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Comfortable Athletic Wear

Emily Caldwell in Animal Kingdom at DisneyEmily Caldwell and her husband Matthew smiling for a photo in Disney's Animal Kingdom area
Emily and her Husband wearing activewear at Disney. Photo Credit: Emily Caldwell

Tank Tops with Built-in Bras

I find that tank tops with built-in bra cups, such as the one shown in the photo above, work great.

My favorites:

  • Old Navy: Lots of styles and a great size selection
  • CRZ Yoga: Cute and breathable
  • Free Country: More flowy if you prefer a looser fit

Bottoms or Rompers

I prefer leggings or shorts (not joggers, which have too much material for hot days)or a breathable romper.

My favorites:

Sneakers or Very Comfortable Sandals

Teva Hurricane Xlt2 Sandal in beige color with back strap and adjustable front strap
Teva Hurricane Xlt2 Sandal. Photo Credit: Amazon

When considering clothes to wear on hot days at Disney, your shoes probably don’t cross your mind. Yet, wearing the wrong shoes can make your feet sweat profusely and make you feel warmer.

Only two shoe options work for Disney parks: very comfortable and breathable sneakers, such as AllBirds, or highly comfortable walking sandals, like Teva sandals. 

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Whatever you pick, just remember to choose a shoe that fits you well. Poorly fitting shoes or shoes that don’t breathe will make you miserable as you roam around Disney parks. Just trust me on this.

Bags or Backpacks

Ecodudo Mini Backpack Purse for Women in black
Ecodudo Mini Backpack Purse for Women

Choosing the wrong shoes can contribute to overheating, and so can selecting the wrong park bag (and packing it with too much stuff). Pack only the essentials for a park day to keep yourself as light as possible.

If I want to take along a water bottle, I prefer to carry a small backpack like this mini backpack. If I don’t need my water bottle (say, I’m heading to a dinner reservation), I’ll choose a fanny pack such as the WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack. Walking through the park with a hands-free bag will ensure you can move around freely.

At Your Hotel

Zillajee Women's 100% Cotton Pajama Pants with Floral, neutral pattern
Zillajee Women’s 100% Cotton Pajama Pants

You don’t know exhaustion until you finish a full park day. When you return to your hotel room, change into something breathable for sleeping. Even with air conditioning, the inside hotel rooms can still feel humid and hot during the hottest months of the year.

I always pack breathable fabrics like cotton PJ pants to lounge and sleep in. Recently, I’ve worn these Zillajee 100% cotton sleep pants. The pattern makes me feel “put together” for sleep, and I love that the length works well for shorter women. I prefer an oversized t-shirt or tank top for sleeping.

Final Thoughts

Sunny day at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom with a focus on the central castle with Disney World 50th Anniversary Logo
Sunny day at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Photo Credit: Emily Caldwell

Vacation preparation makes a huge difference, regardless of how often you’ve visited WDW. These best clothes for hot days at Disney will make your trip exponentially better.

Your WDW vacation should focus on having the most possible fun and making memories with your family. I recommend skipping trendy fashion and elaborate outfits and sticking to cool and comfortable basics.

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Emily is a freelance writer and journalist who has a focus on food, beverage, health, and travel content. When she’s not busy writing her next story, Emily is passionate about exploring new destinations with her husband, Matt. Whether it’s a Caribbean destination like St. Lucia or Barbados, a new luxury city like Dubai, or a trip to Disney World as an annual passholder, Emily finds enjoyment in traveling to both new and familiar places. She provides a realistic and authentic tone in her writing, encouraging others to explore the world around them.
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