Disney in January-But What Will I Wear?

Trying to predict the weather to pack for Walt Disney World in January can be tricky. WDW is rain or shine, and most people book their trips months in advance so knowing the weather is impossible.

Is January too cold for Disney World?

I’ve been to Disney twice in January, and both times, the weather was completely opposite than the last time; polar opposites as one would say.

Prepare for hot weather

The first time, the weather was hotter than average, at 97 degrees! We thought the day would deliver light breezes and make for a comfortable day walking around Magic Kingdom. Unfortunately that was not the case.

We ended up needing extra fans versus extra jackets and we traded in our sneakers for flip flops!

Disney in January-what to wear; kids wearing shorts and tanks

Cold weather in January

The second time we went, there was a freak cold spell, with weather in the 40’s. I felt like that would make for a great day of walking around Disney.

However, we were bone chilling cold. There is no relief from the weather when you’re at Disney. There really aren’t many indoor places to dine and most lines for rides are outside. We ended up needing two to three sweaters and blankets, and our jeans didn’t suffice for keeping us warm. Long John’s would have been better!

cold weather in January at Disney World- kids in blankets in stroller

So when it comes to packing items for your Disney trip in January, don’t just think it’s Florida and it will be very hot. Be prepared for different weather variations-from heat, to cold, and even rain.

What to pack for Disney World in January

Small items such as; sunscreen, sunglasses, chapstick, wallet with cards, cash and phone.
A small lunchbox for waters and snacks. If you have children, this will save your life from the $10 bottle of waters.
Stroller fans and cooling towels for hot weather. Cooling towels on amazon are so cheap and SO worth it. They really do work.
A simple poncho in case it rains. You won’t want to carry an umbrella with you!
An extra pair of socks- socks get wet on certain rides and they don’t dry like the rest of your clothing.
Reusable straws-have one handy If you don’t like paper straws because that’s all Disney has! You can buy cute ones and store it in your bag.

Disney in January-What to Wear?

Shorts – even if it’s in the 60’s you will still want shorts as jeans might be uncomfortable to walk around in.
Pants- joggers, yoga pants, or leggings in case it’s cold. Remember it will warm up in the afternoon.
A simple shirt that you can throw a jacket over.
Jackets or sweaters- just in case 😉
Sneakers- always! Even when it’s hot, walking in sneakers will allow you to have more stamina to walk around the parks!
A Fanny pack or cross body for your items
A hat comes in handy! The sun will most likely be shining and it will protect you from a sunburn.

Is January a slow month for Disney World?

If you’ve been to Disney in the brutal heat, you know that the “winter” months are the best times from a weather standpoint to visit Disney. But is January crowded at Disney?

January is a great time to visit Disney because it’s not exactly peak season. If you plan your trip when there are no holidays or school breaks in January, you’ll avoid a lot of crowds and waiting in line.

Some days in January to avoid are MLK day, the first week since kids are still on holiday break, and teacher work days (there’s usually one in January.)

Even if you do go during a hotter time in January, it’s significantly less humid! So that’s a win.

Other Disney World Tips

Download the Disney app and add your tickets on there. It makes it much easier when everything is on your phone.

On the Disney app, you can plan out your itinerary in the parks by scheduling your rides and shows.

This saves so much time while you’re at the park and keeps you on track so you don’t miss out on things you want to do.

Also, schedule some lunch and dinner reservations a month or so in advance! On the day of, there will not be any reservations open. Trust me!

But most of all, have a magical time!

Did you know that there is a Disney resort on the beach in Florida?

Check it out below!

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort: Review + What To Do

Author

Ashli Follano

Born and raised on the treasure coast, Ashli has always been passionate about her home and showing people how much there is to love here. Ashli is a busy mama of four young kids, who loves taking them out to explore all our town has to offer. In addition to being a wife, mom and avid treasure Coast explorer, Ashley is also a special education teacher and runs a local homeschool co-op. She always stays busy typing active with her kids and dogs, camping, traveling and going to the beach whenever she can.
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