When visiting Universal Studios you want a bag that is both lightweight and practical.
You want something that’s going to comfortably store everything you need to bring with you to the parks, but also be small enough to fit in any lockers or under any seats while on rides or attractions.
Luckily, having been to Universal Studios Orlando more than ten times in the past decade, and being annual pass holders at Universal Studios Hollywood we’ve had a lot of experience when it comes to choosing the perfect bag for the parks.
1. HIKPRO 20L Lightweight Packable Backpack
This 20-litre capacity lightweight backpack by HikPro is a solid choice for those looking to comfortably bring a couple of essentials into the park.
Better still, this thing is packable and compresses into itself measuring just 6.7 inches by 6.7 inches once complete.
This makes it perfect for folding away in your luggage for transport or in a wardrobe when you’re back home.
Weighing just 7.5oz this backpack contains ;
- Main zipper area
- Front zipper pocket
- Two elasticated pouches on the side
However, there are some drawbacks.
Firstly, this backpack is only water resistant, and not waterproof. This means it’ll take small rain showers for up to 40 minutes, but perhaps not the tropical storms you might experience during late summer.
Second, given its lightweight and small capacity, it’s not suitable for those looking to pack a large number of items and if overloaded the handles could snap.
If you’re looking to store a phone, a bag of chips, some sunblock and a hat you’re fine. However, for something heavier such as a jacket, a towel or a pair of shoes is going to require something stronger.
2. Under Armor Backpack Hustle Backpack
If you’re looking for a backpack with more strength and space, then consider the stylish Under Armour Hustle backpack.
This backpack has it all;
- Water repellant
- Multiple internal and external pockets
- Stylish prints
- Adjustable straps
- Elasticated side pouches
While the Under Armor Hustle backpack is a little more pricy than some of the other backpacks on this list it’s been incredibly well-designed to last the test of time.
3. Herschel Fourteen Waist Pack
If you’re looking for something small to comfortably wear in the parks then consider buying a fanny pack instead of the more traditional backpack.
This one-litre option by Herschel is incredibly popular and available in a wide range of colours.
We have one of these ourselves and managed to fit the following inside (with space to spare) on a recent trip;
- Airpods
- Phone
- Keys
- Wallet
- Phone charger
Of course, a bag this small won’t be right for everyone and will still be required to be placed inside a locker while on selected rides at the Universal Studios parks.
4. Outlander 33L Daypack
The Outlander 33L daypack is a great alternative to the HikPro backpack discussed above.
Available in a range of different colours this backpack is great for those looking to bring a couple of essential items into the park.
The main features of this backpack include;
- Two front zipper pockets
- Two elasticated pouches on the side
- Range of colours
- Weighs just 8oz
This backpack also compresses into itself. Which makes it perfect for stowing during travel or back home.
5. Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag
If you’re looking for a hybrid between a fanny pack and a tradition backpack consider this incredible crossbody sling bag by Waterfly.
Available in a wide range of colours, this backpack is perfect for bringing a handful of essentials to the Universal studios parks.
Some of the key features of this bag include;
- Available in a variety of colours
- Multiple internal and external pockets
- Adjustable strap
- Elastic pouches on the side
While this bag is incredibly comfortable, keep in mind that it is small. You’ll only be able to fit in the likes of a phone, wallet, keys and sunglasses.
6. Nike Heritage Hip Pack
A great alternative to the Herschel fanny pack mentioned above is this Nike Heritage hip pack.
Available in four stylish designs this fanny pack features;
- Multiple zipper pockets
- Adjustable waistband
- Padded packing area
As with any of the smaller bag options on this list, the size and number of items you’ll be able to take to Universal Studios in this bag are limited.
However, it’s perfect for sunglasses, Airpods, keys, wallet etc.
7. Jansport Superbreak Plus Backpack
If you’re looking for a simple backpack that will take everything you throw at it during a trip to Universal Studios then look no further than the stylish Jansport Superbreak Plus.
This backpack is more on the expensive side. However, it comes with a range of fantastic features including;
- A range of colours and designs
- Adjustable straps
- Utility pocket
- Padded back panel
Jansport has been making backpacks since 1967, as such when it comes to durability and quality you’ll struggle to find any better.
8. Herschel Cruz Cross Body Bag
The Herschel Cruz cross-body bag is one of the smallest on this list at 0.5 litres.
Nevertheless, this bag is incredibly stylish and benefits from;
- Range of colours and styles
- Internal zip pockets
- Adjustable strap
- Fabric liner
- Key clip
This bag isn’t going to be suitable if you’re planning on bringing a large number of items to the park.
However, for simple essentials, it’s absolutely perfect!
9. Loungefly Mini-Backpack
If you’re looking for style over practicality then consider this incredible Captain America Loungefly backpack.
This backpack features;
- Front zipper pocket
- Weighs 8oz
- Universal Studios themed
- Faux leather exterior
- Hanging hook
This backpack is as small as some of the fanny packs on this list measuring just 5.5″ x 11.5″ x 17.5″.
As such it’s really only suitable for those visiting the parks looking to store basic essentials such as a phone, wallet and keys.
10. KUWANI Change Bag
If you’re travelling to Universal Studios with a baby or toddler then consider purchasing the incredibly practical KUWANI change bag.
The features of this bag are almost endless. That being said, some of my favourites include;
- Multiple colours and styles
- Portable foldable mobile grib
- Multiple pockets and pouches
- Bottle holders
- Water-resistant
Both the style and practicality of this change bag make it absolutely perfect for storing everything you could possibly need during a day at the parks.
11. Carhartt Legacy Backpack
The Carhart Legacy is one of the largest and most expensive backpacks on this list.
Made of durable 1200D Poly with Rain Defender water repellent plus Duravax abrasion-resistant base this bag is designed to tackle whatever your day at the parks throws at it.
Some of my favourite features of this backpack include;
- External zipper pockets
- Internal organisers
- Contour-fitted shoulder straps
- Padded air mesh back panel
- Mesh side pockets
This backpack is also available in a range of colours and styles depending on your preference.
12. Harry Potter Hedwig Letter Rucksack
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter then look no further than this incredible Hegwig / Hogwarts Letter-inspired rucksack.
Form meets function with the design of this rucksack which includes;
- Drawstring and magnetic snap front
- Large main compartment
- Multiple external zipper pockets
- Adjustable shoulder straps
This backpack is perfect for kids, teens and adults and can comfortably hold a bottled drink, a jacket, sunhat, sunblock, sunglasses, pens, a wallet and keys all with room to spare.
13. Travelon Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bucket Bag
This Travelon Anti-Theft cross-body bucket bag is perfect for those looking to combine; security, form and function.
The bag features;
- Multiple colours and design options
- Locking main compartment
- RFID blocking slots
- Mesh expanding pockets
- Slash-resistant fabric
The straps of this bag can also be easily adjusted allowing you to wear it in a number of different ways depending on your requirements.
14. Double Compartment Lunch Bag
If you’re looking to save money at Universal Studios by bringing your own food, drinks and snacks then an insulated cooler bag is a great choice.
This double compartment lunch bag features;
- Stylish colour options
- Waterproof exterior
- Leakproof interior
- 5mm insulation
- Adjustable strap
This bag has a capacity of 15 litres, which can be expanded by an additional 1.6 litres using the zipper on the top.
The range of pockets makes it perfect for not only bringing food and drink to the parks but also safely storing your essentials including your phone, keys and wallet.