Are you looking for the ULTIMATE Hersheypark packing list guide for your upcoming trip?
Well, look no further!
Planning a trip to Hersheypark is an always and exciting endeavor.
One of my most fondest memories as a child is how the family and I would prep for summer visits to Hersheypark every year.
But before embarking on this sweet adventure, it’s essential to make sure you have all the necessary items needed to make your day filled with fun and fond memories, just like the ones I made!
So, let’s dive into ALL of the things you need to pack for Hersheypark.
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Your Hersheypark Packing List at a Glance:
- Deodorants
- Lotion
- Make-Up/Lip Balm
- Sanitizer
- Sunscreen
- Fanny Pack
- Tampons or Sanitary Napkins
- Poncho
- Wet Wipes
- Portable charger
- Debit/Credit Cards
- Tickets and Confirmation
- Restaurant Reservation Confirmations
- Small Bag
- Stylish, but Comfortable Clothing
- Comfortable Shoes
- Small Snacks
- Have Hersheypark App Downloaded
- Waterproof Phone Case/Pouch
- Cooling Towel
- Handheld Electric Fan
- Water
- Ziploc Bags
- Hat
- Sunglasses
Keep reading to see what you must pack and bring on your Hersheypark vacation!
1. Debit/Credit Cards
This one is especially important before anything else. Like most parks, Hersheypark in recent years has gone cashless.
Hersheypark does have machines where you can convert your cash to a card; however, if there is a balance left, you may not get a refund.
Technically, credit and debit cards don’t have to be brought with you.
The park also accepts Apple Pay and Samsung Pay, but it may be safer to bring the physical cards just in case and if you feel comfortable doing so.
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2. Fanny Pack/Backpack
Every visit to a theme park means you need a comfortable and sturdy bag to carry your souvenirs and goodies that you’ll certainly bring home with you.
I find personally that fanny packs are easier to manage and lightweight, easy to put into lockers for rides as well.
These are great for those like me who only really carry the essentials anyway. And one of the best things to add to your Hersheypark packing list.
Or you might be like my boyfriend who prefers a backpack, especially when visiting the Boardwalk within Hersheypark.
This fanny pack option I find a bit on the pricey side but it is durable and features many pockets, which i find worth the cost and useful.
- 【AMPLE ROOM, KEEP ORGANIZED】: Well constructed with 5 separate zippered pockets of different sizes for all your needs;The largest pocket can easily hold a standard water bottle (16oz); A small hidden zipper compartment inside the main pocket perfect for your valuables for extra security; A flat zippered exterior pocket located behind the waist band, against your body. Provides spacious storage and help keep you organized while maintaining a slim profile
- 【DURABLE MATERIAL&LININGS, WEAR-RESISTANT】: Made of strong 1000D Polyester+ Exquisite overall craftsmanship with cleanly finished seams, this waist bag is sturdy and built to last yet soft and pliable. It’ll make a great addtion for your daily errands and outdoor activities, perfect for walking, running, biking, hiking, traveling, festivals, fairs, concerts and farmers markets etc.
- 【QUALITY SOLID ZIPPERS】: Zippers are a very important component of a bag and should never be compromised. This waist pack adopts tough and heavy duty zippers, sturdy,easy to slide and working smoothly. Zipper pulls are good-sized and elegant in design. Worry no more about anything falling out and getting lost.
- 【ADJUSTABLE STRAP, COMFORTABLE&VERSATILE】: The flexible strap, with strong and reliable buckle, ranges from 23.6-45.3 inches(including the bag) and can be adjusted to accommodate a fluffy personality or a skinny mini. Easily and quickly adjusts to whatever length you need and will remain at your chosen length without loosening; Allows for different wearing styles:can be worn on your hip, over the shoulder or tight under your arm.
- 【AFTER-SALES SERVICE】RISK-FREE PURCHASE with 100% satisfaction guarantee. We have long term quality warranty – 18 Month Warranty. Drop us an email should you have ANY question regarding our product or service and we’d be most glad to help.
Meanwhile, this backpack option is more of a backpack sling and similar in size to a fanny pack.
- Keep Everything in Order: Size: 7 x 3.5 x 15 inches /18 x 9 x 38 cm. The front zipper bag and buckle bag allow you to store iPad mini, iPhone 7 Plus, power band, etc., with several separate small compartments inside, it can effectively keep your small items like makeup, tissue, keys and so on. The side mesh pocket is 6 inches height, it can hold 2.4 inch(diameter) bottle.
- Hidden Earphone Hole: There is a hidden earphone hole on the front, providing easy access to your earphones, you can enjoy music anytime and anywhere.
- Adjustable Reversible Shoulder Strap: Designed with 3 D-rings on the lower part, the adjustable shoulder strap can be connected with the left or right D-ring for your preference, so that it is convenient to wear on your left or right shoulder. The shoulder strap pouch is 3.5 x 1.5 x 7.5 inches (L x W x H), it hold the phone screen size under 7 inches easily. Shoulder strap can be adjusted from 31 ” to 39.5 ”.
- Superior Material: The shoulder strap and the back is made of breathable material, make you feel comfortable when travel, hiking and so on.
- 【After-sales guarantee】If you have any problem with broken or damaged items you purchased，please do not hesitate to contact us with your order ID. We will reply and address your issue within one day, so please purchase with confidence.
It has a bit more wiggle room, much more lightweight and can even hold a water bottle just as well as a standard backpack.
3. Lactaid/ Dramamine Pills
This one might seem to be a bit odd, but hear me out!
There are those who may come to Hersheypark and expect that they won’t be able to enjoy all the delicious food and treat options due to dairy issues.
Luckily for you, Hersheypark features many items that suit various dietary needs.
But they are known for their famous king size milkshakes, sundaes and hot cocoa, and you may be tempted.
With that being said, you will want some travel Lactaid pills!
Another important thing, especially if you get prone to dizzy spells, especially on rides like Jolly Rancher Remix, Great Bear and Sooper Dooper Looper, you will want Dramamine pills.
Travel size is my go to for both! Making it one of the best things to add to your Hersheypark packing list.
Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide
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4. Portable Charger
While I don’t recommend being on your phone during your visit, you may want to use the Hersheypark app throughout your visit to keep an eye on wait times, mobile order food and find your way around the park.
Apps like this tend to really eat at your battery as it requires location services and such to be turned on.
And if you are using your phone to stay in touch with your party or take awesome photos of epic moments or attractions, you will need a portable charger.
Thankfully you don’t need to break the bank on these. I use Anker portable chargers vs the fuel rods you may find in the parks.
I find that Anker is slimmer and easy to put in a pocket or bag, holds charge longer and can charge multiple devices as once. My particular charger can do at least two full charges.
- Never Run Out of Power: The 10,000mAh capacity enables this power bank to charge your iPhone 14 twice and your iPad mini 5 up to 1.3 times.
- Dual Charging: The USB-C port supports two-way fast charging for added convenience.
- Extremely Safe to Use: With a fireproof casing*, high-density polymer cell, smart circuit, and temperature control, this power bank provides reliable protection while charging your devices.
- Simultaneous Charging: With the ability to charge two devices at once at up to 12W max, this power bank is perfect for those on the go with multiple devices.
- What You Get: Anker 323 Power Bank (PowerCore PIQ), 1.9 ft (60 cm) USB-A to USB-C cable, welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Most importantly, Anker tends to be more affordable but ultimately, you have to decide which is best for you!
Making it one of the best things to add to your Hersheypark packing list.
5. Sunscreen
If you are visiting, especially during the summer months, you are going to need to slather up on sunscreen.
While you may be in Pennsylvania, the summers up north can be equally unforgiving, especially in July.
And you aren’t going to want to buy them from the park, as they will cost more.
I typically use Black Girl Sunscreen as it doesn’t leave a residue and is great for my complexion in particular. But another sunscreen I like is Coppertone Sport SPF 50.
- Tailored for Melanin Rich Skin: Specially formulated for dark skin tones, our SPF 30 sunscreen lotion offers robust protection against UVA and UVB rays, preventing premature aging, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots.
- Dual-Action Moisturizing: Acting as both a sunscreen and a moisturizer, our lotion is infused with nourishing natural ingredients like Jojoba, Cacao, and Avocado, providing all-over skin protection and hydration.
- Sheer, Residue-Free Application: Enjoy a sunscreen that leaves no white-cast or residue behind. Our sheer formula ensures a clear, lightweight base, perfect for daily use under makeup or on its own.
- Safe and Sustainable: Committed to your health and the environment, our sunscreen is free from Parabens, Fragrance, Oxybenzone, and Octinoxate, making it a reef-friendly choice.
- Water Resistant & Easy to Use: Stay protected even in water with our sunscreen’s 80-minute water resistance. For optimal protection, apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply after swimming, sweating, or at least every 2 hours.
The Coppertone two pack specifically just in case you lose one. But its great as its also waterproof, which is great for when you visit the waterpark at Hersheypark.
The two pack is a good deal for me and will last you a while.
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6. Water Bottle
Speaking of water, you MUST hydrate.
Usually, if you are starting to feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
Now you can do an All Day Drink Cup at Hersheypark for about $20 but if you want something that is useful and environmentally friendly, I have a few options for you.
I love the Brita Hard Sided Plastic Water Bottle, mainly because its light and won’t weigh down my bags if I place it in.
- BRITA WATER FILTER BOTTLE: One 26 oz. BPA-free Brita Hard-Sided Plastic Premium Filtering Water Bottle with one filter that reduces chlorine taste and odor in water as you drink
- CUTS OUT IMPURITIES: Activated carbon block filter cuts the taste and odor of chlorine and also reduces particulates in drinking water; not a water purifier bottle
- SUSTAINABLE: By switching to Brita, you can save money and replace up to 300 standard 16.9-oz. single-use plastic water bottles with each filter
- CONVENIENT DESIGN: Features include an easy-sip straw, built-in carrying loop for portability, one-handed push-button lid and leakproof design/construction to avoid surprise spills
- TOP RACK DISHWASHER-SAFE: Just place this personal water filter bottle in the top rack of your dishwasher for easy cleaning
It also has a built in filter, which means I can get water from anywhere and not have to worry about the water filtration systems throughout the park.
- Housing 26 ounces of thirst quenching power and made to fit in your backpack, this one’s been dubbed the goldilocks of the YETI Bottle line. And with the leak-resistant YETI Straw Cap, you’ve got a bottle made for every day, easy sippin’
- 18/8 STAINLESS STEEL – Resists dents and drops and the Double-Wall Vacuum Insulation keeps drinks cold to the last drop
- NO SWEAT DESIGN – prevents condensation, keeping hands dry
- DISHWASHER SAFE – Because no one needs more work to do
- Note: Do not use the YETI Rambler Bottle Straw Cap with hot, carbonated, or pulpy beverages or for storage of food or perishables
Another brand I swear by is the Yeti bottles with the straw. It doesn’t have a filter but it still works great and keeps drinks very cold all day.
Making it one of the best things to add to your Hersheypark packing list.
Hipster Power Tip: I recommend hydrating with water as soda can dehydrate you and make you more thirsty.
7. A Good and Sturdy Hat
You might have been like me and thought most theme park rides have some sort of covering from the sun in all their outdoor queues.
Well, surprise surprise. Some of them don’t…
You get lucky with Great Bear, Sooper Dooper Looper and Stormrunner.
But as far as the other coasters go, you may be unlucky and be spending your ride wait time absolutely baking in the sun.
This especially goes for Jolly Rancher Remix, for which I have a personal beef with them for this very reason haha!
With that being said, you should have a decent hat.
I prefer this one, while not terribly fashionable, it keeps me shaded and cool, and my neck as well!
- UPF 50 PROTECTION：The women sun hat with wide brim ensure you are protected from the sun’s UV rays.
- Adjustable Drawstring: An adjustable chin strap ensures the women sun hat will not be lost on a windy day. Rear opening design fits women’s low ponytail comfortably.
- COMFORTABLE: Breathable mesh layer on both sides of the women sun hat is for ventilation even in the hot summer. Breathable, comfortable & durable.
- Wide Applicable Occasion: Suitable for sun visors, daily wear, sports and outdoors such as Fishing, Hiking, Working Outside, Gardening traveling, Camping, Beaches and more.
- Portable: Foldable, easy to carry or pack inside your purse, tote or backpack. One Size Fits Most: The circumference of the women sun hat is 22.8inch.
Although, I would say any baseball cap would do. I recommend this it has a space for your ponytails.
8. Comfortable Walking Shoes
If you don’t take anything away from this list, MAKE SURE YOU GET COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES!
One of the main things visitors do not expect when coming to Hersheypark is the hills. The park is VERY hill-y.
And if you aren’t used to walking up and down fairly steep hills, this is going to be a rough day, that includes chub rub.
My go to pair these ACIS Gel Sole Shoes, I use them for all my theme park adventures and running excursions. They are by far the most comfortable pair I own.
Another brand I really like for Hersheypark is HOKA! They’re pricey but they’re THE MOST comfortable shoes for Hersheypark!
- Breathable open engineered mesh upper with seamless synthetic overlays
- Breathable textile lining for abrasion-free wear
- Removable, foam padded insole for cushioning and support
- Durable full-length EVA midsole to absorb shock and offer stability
- Durable sole with rubber inserts for grip
I own this pair of New Balance shoes and although I had to switch out the soles for Dr. Scholl’s, they still are breathable and comfortable.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
9. Chub Rub Patches
Speaking of chub rub, if you’re like me and have bigger thighs, let me put you on to some life-saving products.
No longer will we have to deal with swollen thighs and burning, aching chub rub!
Introducing Chub Rub Patches, as seen on Shark Tank!
- The Chub Rub Patch is the dermatologist-recommended solution to inner thigh chafing. Whether working out, running errands, or even sitting cross-legged, our patch was specially designed to prevent any unwanted friction between your thighs.
- Thigh rubbing prevention for women that’s completely safe for use on sensitive skin. Our patches are made of medical grade 100% hypoallergenic cotton material, 100% poly-acrylic adhesive, are latex free, and won’t irritate your skin.
- Waterproof and sweatproof design that you can wear while exercising, playing sports, to the beach, and even swimming. Our Chub Rub patches are designed to stay on your body delivering thigh rubbing protection whenever you need it.
- The smooth luxurious textured surface enables your thighs to glide seamlessly and effortlessly while moving around. The Chub Rub Patch was designed to eliminate chafing problems on your body while feeling comfortable and confident throughout the day.
- The Chub Rub Patch saves thighs! We are on a mission to provide a solution to women who have to endure the problems of skin chafing. We want women to wear their favorite outfits with confidence and without the pain and discomfort of thigh chafing.
You just place them where your thighs normally rub and they last you all day.
They are truly worth every penny I pay when I go to Hersheypark or any theme park really.
- Additional ingredients to help hydrate skin and retain moisture. Rich in Vitamins A, B, E, and F.
- Apply before you put on clothes, on inner thighs, around (sports) bra, wherever skin is sensitive to rubbing
- Made with allergen free, plant-derived ingredients. Vegan approved, never tested on animals. Child safe.
- Effective and longlasting for daily use in demanding conditions. No petroleum, lanolin or mineral oils.
- Keeps pores clog free. Sweat escapes and lets skin breathe. Clothing, footwear and wetsuit safe.
Another option is the Body Glide Product. They come as cream and balms but for summer, I get the anti-chafe balms. They don’t sweat off and are waterproof.
Hipster Power Tip: Don’t forget to bring a waterproof phone pouch for water rides or possible rain!
10. Change of Clothes
Last but certainly not least, bring an extra change of clothes.
Now this is important if you plan on going to the Boardwalk and getting on water rides.
Beyond a certain part of the park, you aren’t allowed to walk around in your swimsuit or trunks.
And I’m sure you don’t want to walk around in wet clothes. This is also a note to bring your own towel too, as Hersheypark doesn’t provide any.
But in general, bringing a change of clothes is just smart as you may get really sweaty, wet, drop food on yourself or god knows what.
Better to have it, than be miserable in wet or dirty clothes all day at the park.
My Final Thoughts on What to Pack for Hersheypark
As your visit to Hersheypark draws to a close, reflecting on the items you packed can offer insights into your overall experience.
From sunscreen to comfortable footwear that carried you through countless exhilarating adventures, each item played a crucial role in ensuring your day was as enjoyable as possible.
As you gather your belongings and bid farewell to the park, take a moment to appreciate the thoughtfulness of your packing decisions and how they contributed to the success of your Hersheypark adventure.
Looking ahead to future visits, consider refining your packing list based on your experiences.
With a well-prepared bag by your side, you’ll be ready to embark on future Hersheypark escapades filled with excitement, laughter, and, of course, plenty of chocolatey delights.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home. You can find her at Disney Tea with V.