on Apr 25, 2025 Why would I take my family to Epic Universe in July to experience the sweltering outdoor heat? Well, for starters, it’s summer break, and secondly, the newest Universal Studios theme park is open. Heat, shmeat. Let’s do this! As a Florida native, I have learned to come prepared. Here’s everything I’m bringing in my daypack to ensure we have the best day at Florida’s newest theme park.
Harry Potter Interactive Wands
First, the fun stuff! If you have been to Universal Studios before, you might have purchased an interactive wand to use in the Harry Potter-themed areas of each park. Yes, you can buy a new wand in the Ministry of Magic in Epic Universe, but the great news is that your older wands will work too. We are bringing our Voldemort and Mrs. McGonagall wands to see what mischief we can manage.
Sunscreen
All eyes are on the Annual passholder previews, and one thing I’ve read over and over is that shade in the parks is not abundant. As the trees fill in, this will likely change. But for now, sunscreen is your friend. Our favorite is Sunbum spray for arms and legs, and a stick for the face. Apply early and often!
Cooling Towels
I bought these cooling towels for my family’s trip to Israel a couple of years ago, and they are perfect for theme parks. Just get them wet and drape them around your neck. It’s remarkable how much they help! The results speak for themselves.
Drawstring Backpack
A full backpack is unnecessary for one day in a theme park. All you need is room for a few snacks, a water bottle, and the rest of what is on this list. You’ll be glad to have a smaller bag when it’s time to put it in a locker so you can ride Stardust Racers! I prefer a drawstring back with wider straps like the one pictured, so they don’t dig into my shoulders. One bag has plenty of space for all four of us.
Battery Power Bank
Did you even go to a theme park if you didn’t spend half the day in the app and taking pictures? These days, you need access to the theme park app for ride wait times, mobile ordering, and maps. And don’t even get me started on photo ops! Don’t let your phone battery die. This is key. Use whatever battery bank that works with your phone. I like the style that plugs right into the bottom so I don’t have to mess with cords while walking around.
Water Bottle
Yes, there are plenty of ways to obtain free cups of water in the park. But did you know you can refill your own water bottle for free anytime you want at one of the many Coca-Cola Freestyle machines in the park? Bring a (non-glass) water bottle and thank me later! And if you really want some flavor, my son loves his Cirkul water bottle with flavor cartridges built right in.
Snacks
I definitely plan to try some tasty theme park food, but I always have my snacks, especially when my boys are with me. Make sure to bring items that won’t squish or melt. We like pretzels, dried cranberries, fruit snacks, trail mix, and pistachios to get us through those long waits.
Handheld Fan
This small handheld fan has traveled the world, from Disney Parks to Greece, Israel, Italy, and beyond. It is a fan, flashlight, and can even be used to charge your phone. I also use it on my nightstand because I need a little breeze while sleeping. I’ve had it for almost two years and it’s still going strong!
Sunglasses
It seems like a no-brainer, but there have definitely been times when I or a family member forgot their sunglasses. Since this park isn’t strong on shade, having my own shades is non-negotiable. I don’t wear expensive sunglasses to theme parks, though. I reach for dark lenses with UV protection, and plastic frames that I can easily slip up onto my head when we go inside.
Power-Up Bands
OK so we aren’t bringing these because we don’t have them yet, but I am budgeting for at least one or two interactive Power-Up bands to use in Super Nintendo World. Much like the Harry Potter wands, these bands interact with various experiences to enhance gameplay, introduce challenges, and produce fun sounds. If you already have a band from one of the other Universal parks, it will also work at Epic Universe.
Lets-a Go!
With these items and a great attitude, I think we’ll be ready for an epic day, even in the heat of summer! Do you think I forgot anything? Let me know in the comments! And for more family travel tips, bookmark Just is a Four Letter Word.
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