We are going to pack three sets of shoes for WDW - two sturdy pairs of sneakers and some sandals of some sort, though neither of us likes to tour in flip flops for more than about a day. We each have waterproof sneakers for that, too. We are bringing back our Disney ponchos from last time, when they went Code 101 in the middle of the day and we all got stuck inside for about two hours due to thunder and lightning. We also brought home two cookbooks because of that Code 101. I think Disney planned it that way.
Other than that, our last trip was pretty uneventful weather wise. Going in late October/early November is our favourite time. We're headed back in 23 days (nobody's counting around here! haha!) and all of these things will be toted along with.
I think this goes to "good packing means good planning" in general.
- When you have two or three pairs of shoes to swap out anyway because it's better for your feet when you don't wear the same shoes day after day for miles and miles each day, then you end up inadvertently prepared for downpours.
- If you bring quick-dry or waterproof clothing (including socks and underpinnings) because it's either going to be hot and you're going to sweat, or because it's lighter weight and cooler, or because you plan on water rides, then you're prepared for a downpour and can enjoy your time without stressing or chafing.
- Packing a few plastic bags to tuck the phone into for water rides means you're ready for that downpour as well. The things that let you be spontaneous also let you be prepared.
- And heck, a ballcap is always a great addition to the suitcase. It keeps sun, rain, wind, sleet, and hail away and can be used as evap cooling by getting it wet and putting it back on your head in a pinch! Even my non-hat-wearing husband agrees.
Not everyone is ducky happy in the rain. We're from Seattle and don't ever, ever carry umbrellas. We'll wear waterproof outer layers or a poncho if we don't have those, and just keep going, even in a torrential Floridian downpour. One of my favourite times when I was a camp counselor in another part of the country was to take the children out and play soccer in the rain, and they LOVED it. It was the only time I ever played soccer, ever. You may find that your kids REALLY love playing in the rain if you get into it, too. If you're not so inclined, it's a great time as one poster said to go hang in the pool as long as there's no lightning. Go enjoy some drinks at one of the resorts. Take a midday nap and head back. So many options!!!