What You Can (and Can’t) Bring Into Dollywood: Smart Packing Tips for a Perfect Park Day
Quick Takeaway: Dollywood’s bag policy is simple and family-friendly: pack light, stay comfortable, and bring what makes your day magical. With refillable bottles, snacks, sun protection, and a stroller or wagon for the kids, you’ll breeze through security and enjoy every moment in the heart of the Smokies.
When you’re heading to Dollywood, it’s natural to want to be prepared with smart packing. Between the Smoky Mountain sunshine, thrilling coasters, and mouthwatering Southern food, a little planning goes a long way toward keeping your family comfortable and stress-free. But before you start packing, it’s important to know what you can and can’t bring into the park.
Whether you’re visiting during the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, enjoying the Harvest Festival, or soaking up the sparkle of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, this guide covers everything you need to know about Dollywood’s bag policy and how smart packing can provide a smooth, magical experience.
Dollywood’s Bag Policy: The Basics
Dollywood allows guests to bring small bags, purses, and backpacks, all of which must go through a quick security screening at the entrance. While there’s no strict size limit, it’s best to keep your bag light and compact so it fits easily into ride lockers or cubbies and doesn’t weigh you down if you are walking the park with it on your back.
If you’re entering the park with a stroller or wagon, all bags will need to be removed for security scanning, including diaper bags and cooler bags. Having everything organized and easy to unload will make your entry much faster.
You’ll find lockers or ride cubbies at most major attractions for storing items that can’t go on rides, like hats, phones, or drinks.
Pro tip: Bring a lightweight, water-resistant backpack (like this collapsible daypack on Amazon)—it’s comfortable, holds all your essentials, and tucks easily into a locker when it’s coaster time.
What You’re Welcome to Bring
Dollywood is all about hospitality and comfort, so guests are welcome to bring several helpful items into the park. Smart packing can make or break your Dollywood day!
Staying hydrated is key in the Tennessee heat. Dollywood offers refill stations throughout the park, so bring a reusable, collapsible bottle (like this option) to keep water available all day long.
2. Snacks for Kids with Dietary Needs
Small snacks for little ones or specific dietary needs are allowed—think crackers, fruit pouches, or granola bars. Just skip full meals or large coolers. If you need to bring in a meal for someone in your party, Dollywood is great at listening and being understanding. My youngest, having AuDHD, struggles to find something that suits his palette most places we go and Dollywood graciously lets me bring in a thermos with hot foot in it for him.
3. Sunscreen, Hats, and Sunglasses
There’s plenty of shade in the park, but the sun can still be strong. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are highly encouraged. A clip-on sunscreen refillable applicator or foldable hat is perfect for a compact bag.
4. Portable Fans or Cooling Towels
During summer events like the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, a neck fan or cooling towel can make waiting in line much more comfortable. Battery-powered options are lightweight and easy to carry.
5. Strollers and Wagons
Dollywood welcomes strollers and stroller-style wagons, making it easy for families to transport kids and gear. You can bring your own or rent one in the park. If you’re bringing your own, choose a foldable wagon that’s easy to maneuver through crowds and pathways. Remember to remove any bags before passing through security.
Pro-Tip: We like to use velcro straps to secure our refillable mugs and buckets to the outside of our stroller. This allows more space on the inside for the kids but keeps our hands mug and bucket free! Check out our article on strollers to learn all the tips and tricks!
Items You’ll Need to Leave at Home
Dollywood keeps things family-friendly and safe by prohibiting:
- Outside meals or large coolers (except for medical needs or baby food)
- Glass containers
- Alcohol
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Drones, selfie sticks, or large tripods
If you need a full meal, Dollywood’s dining options are part of the fun! Don’t miss favorites like Aunt Granny’s Restaurant or Wilderness Pass for hearty Southern classics.
Smart Packing: Comfort and Convenience Essentials
Here are a few must-haves to make the most of your Dollywood day:
- Waterproof phone pouch: Perfect for water rides and summer rain.
- Foldable rain ponchos: Compact and easy to store for unexpected showers.
- Portable charger: Keep your phone powered for the Dollywood app, which shows maps, ride times, and show schedules.
- Ziplock bags: Handy for snacks, wet clothes, or protecting electronics.
We love shopping Amazon prime days to find specials on these products as we frequent theme parks across the country and use these items quite a bit!
Pro Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Arrive early: Security moves quickly, but early birds get through fastest.
- Use Simply Touring & the Dollywood app: Find locker locations, refill stations, and live ride updates.
- Store valuables smartly: Use ride lockers or leave extras in your Dollywood resort room if you’re staying nearby.
- Make a plan: Use our ultimate planning guide and 7 step process to have the best Dollywood day!
