What to Pack for a Day at Universal Studios Hollywood

The anticipation of going to Universal Studios Hollywood can bring about all kinds of feelings. Excitement and joy, for starters, but it can also elicit stress, specifically when thinking about what to pack for your day.

If you are someone like me, you tend to go from one extreme thought to the next. Did I not pack enough? Did I pack too much? I hope I didn’t forget anything! And if you are traveling from outside of the region and are not familiar with Southern California weather, that can also add another layer of complexity to your trip packing process.

Parents, you likely know the importance of doing your homework in advance when going on a trip and having a checklist for you and your family, especially if you have little ones. Whether you are traveling by yourself or with a group, it’s crucial to ensure you have everything you need ahead of time. Speaking for myself, when I am going to visit Universal Studios, the anticipation of riding the World Famous Studio Tour or seeing my favorite characters can sometimes cause me to forget critical items! I’ve found that having a checklist is crucial for me.

But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! I have some helpful tips and a list of items you will want to consider bringing to ensure your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk Hollywood is an unforgettable experience for you and your whole family.

The Essentials

• Mobile phone and charger(s): Since you may be reading this guide on your phone, you will want to remember to pack your phone charger in your bag. While you’re at it, you may want to include a charging bank or portable charger for when you’re on the move at the theme park.  

• Clothes/Accessories: Southern California may have a reputation for palm trees and sunny days, but it can get downright chilly in the winter — and at nighttime, too, thanks to the relative lack of humidity.
  • Warmer Weather: A T-shirt and shorts will feel comfortable on warm days and don’t forget a hat/visor. For very hot summer days, a cooling towel can really come in handy. If you’re staying after the sun goes down, it’s not a bad idea to bring a long-sleeve layer with you.
  • Cooler Weather: Long sleeve shirt or a removable light sweater/jacket and long pants. LA also gets rainy in the winter months, so check the weather and pack a rain jacket if necessary.
  • All-weather: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen (that California sun is powerful!), and sunglasses.

• Additional accessories include deodorant, a refillable water bottle, hand sanitizer and any medications you might need.

• I’d also recommend bringing a printed copy of your travel itinerary and ticket confirmations in the event you cannot retrieve it via your electronic device.

• Don’t forget your wallet and keys and remember to always have your photo ID with you!

Traveling with Children

• If you are traveling with small children, be sure to pack the essentials: diaper bag, diapers, wipes, formula, etc.

• Small strollers are great for storing bags and keeping your little one secure in crowded places. If you’re traveling to LA by plane and do not have space for a stroller, you will have the opportunity to rent one in the theme park.

• Sun protection is important for guests of all ages! Make sure you keep your little one’s skin safe with lots of sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and whatever other sun-protectants you might need.

Playing in Water

If you plan to play in Super Silly Fun Land — which is a must for families during the summer months — you’ll definitely want to bring the following water gear: 

• Swimsuit: This is an obvious one, but don’t forget it!

• Close-toed water shoes: These are a requirement to play in this water zone!

• Change of clothes: If you’re going to play in the water, be sure to bring some dry apparel for yourself as well as the little ones.

NOTE:  Before your visit, be sure to check the mobile app or theme park website to confirm that Super Silly Fun Land will be operational as it can be closed from time to time during the year.

• Other attractions where you can get anywhere from slightly wet to soaked are the WaterWorld show (if you’re sitting in the soak seats), and Jurassic World – The Ride. Plan ahead to stay dry.

• Pack some disposable plastic bags or waterproof bags to be extra-certain your personal items are protected.

• It would not be a bad idea to have a poncho on you if you want to make sure you stay dry. Ponchos are available for purchase in retail stores throughout the theme park.

• To learn where to sit to stay dry during WaterWorld, check out Discover Universal’s guide to the stunt spectacular right here.

Additional Packing Tips

• Consider bringing a small bag or fanny pack to bring your must-have accessories along.
  • Most attractions will allow a small bag or fanny pack to be stored on the ride with you, but some attractions do not allow any carry-ons and require guests to use a locker located next to the attraction.
  • Larger bags and backpacks can be stored at the main locker location at the entrance of the park if you do not want to carry it around with you. These locker rentals cost a small fee. Lockers located at the attractions are free with certain time considerations. Please be sure to check with the mobile app or a team member for verification.  

• If you plan to stock up on souvenirs, consider packing an additional small bag or suitcase to fit all your goodies.

• Be sure to download the Universal Studios Hollywood App to get the latest park information. You can also use it to purchase tickets for a future visit, check attraction wait times, set a parking reminder, use Mobile Food and Drink Ordering, and much more.

• Don’t forget to flaunt your fandom! If this is a return trip to Universal Studios Hollywood for you, remember to wear your themed attire such as your Jurassic World T-shirt or World-Famous Studio Tour hat. If you’re looking for more gear, hit up Universal CityWalk Hollywood beforehand to get the latest merch from your favorite franchises!

• Plan ahead and bring some mobile games, a book or something to keep you entertained while waiting in lines for the attractions.

Passholder Items

• If you are an annual passholder, don’t forget your Pass Member Card! We recommend securing your Pass Member Card in an ID card protector on a lanyard, which you can purchase at locations inside the park and on City Walk.  

• If you’ve purchased them in the past, don’t forget your Coca-Cola Freestyle Souvenir Cup or Popcorn Bucket! Refill cost applies.

• Remember: Platinum & Gold Pass Members receive 15% off food and beverage, as well as most merchandise, within the park! (This excludes alcoholic beverages.)

Visiting a theme park can be an amazing experience with nothing but wonderful memories for you and your friends and family. And the more you are prepared, the more ease and comfort you will have. So now that your bags are packed, tickets purchased and secured, it’s time to get ready to have some fun. Are you ready?

Did we miss any packing items or tips? Let us know in the comments below!