I may need an intervention for my packing - and an actual question

[mom2morgan]

We leave on May 12th, and I have my suitcase all packed! Except that I keep adding and changing my mind about stuff. But I feel VERY well prepared - I've got three pairs of shoes, lots of expensive hiking socks, and 40 cubic yards of moleskin and blister bandages. I have collapsible water bottles, a bunch of zip lock bags for keeping things dry, my own laundry soap. An extension cord to make it easy to plug things in where we want, and my husbands C-pap machine so I don't smother him with a pillow. I have over the counter medications for EVERYTHING....as I proudly and (loudly) announced to my daughter in the drug store.."From headaches to diarrhea, I've got it all!" (not sure why those people in line all backed away....extras of toiletries I meet need. I discovered packing cubes this year and I love 'em - AND I have each day's individual outfit all together in a ziplock of its own.

Now, I do want to take a few snacks, mainly for the teenage daughter - some granola bars, fruit leathers and trail mix. My question is what to do about that horrible Florida water. I want to avoid buying expensive pop or water in the parks - hence the collapsible water bottles I mentioned above. What can I put in the tap water to make it palatable - we usually take Crystal Light but that's not super convenient - do those "Mio" or similar water flavouring drops work? And is it TRUE that carts will give you free ice water (I think I'd still feel embarrassed to ask if I wasn't buying anything else). AND wondering if the carts at Universal do the same?

[ibelieveindisneymagic]

In terms of the water, it is 100% true that any location with fountain drinks will give you free ice water. Except for Tomorrowland in MK, since it is filtered, the free water tastes just fine. We were hesitant too, but a couple of trips ago started asking for water and found that many places have them filled with ice, just waiting for someone to ask.

In terms of packing ... sounds like you're well prepared!

[Figment!]

I have over the counter medications for EVERYTHING....as I proudly and (loudly) announced to my daughter in the drug store.."From headaches to diarrhea, I've got it all!" (not sure why those people in line all backed away).

First, I also travel this way. Second,

And is it TRUE that carts will give you free ice water (I think I'd still feel embarrassed to ask if I wasn't buying anything else). AND wondering if the carts at Universal do the same?

Yes, any dinning location at Walt Disney World that is capable of providing will serve complimentary ice water. I don't think any of the roll-around carts can accommodate and they would likely direct you to the nearest drinking fountain. As Heather said, anywhere that serves fountain drinks would be a safe bet.

As far as I am aware, Universal also has the same policy.

[lindique]

For the water issue (and, yes, it does not taste good), I highly recommend buying Brita bottles. They hold about 20 ounces of water, and have a small filter inside that removes the "Florida water" taste. Each person can carry one.

[Cinderelley]

We are leaving the same day as you, and people think I am crazy for packing already. Glad I am not the only one.

[CanadianWDWFan]

Another vote for the Brita bottles here! Plus there is a water fountain by the first aid station in MK where the water is always COLD. We typically fill up our bottles there.

[texas211]

The packing and prep is one of my favorite parts.
I second the brita bottles. Also if you are bringing a camelbak or geiggerig, then get the filter. Though, heavily icing helps as ice reduces the intensity of flavor by 40% (why serious scotch drinkers don't put ice or cool their beverage). I find lemon/lime products help quite a bit with the water. Even if filtered, could still taste/smell slightly funky (it's Florida).

What are fruit leathers?

[#1donaldfan]

Oh my, your packing logistics is amazing .... each outfit, separated already ... yikes !! hahahaa
We always ask for ice water, wherever and whenever we need or want it and never once have we EVER been looked at weirdly. Can you order a case of water from the Garden or Green grocer (can't remember the name) for delivery ?? We did several years ago, along with some other things and loved the service.

[mom2morgan]

The packing and prep is one of my favorite parts.
I second the brita bottles. Also if you are bringing a camelbak or geiggerig, then get the filter. Though, heavily icing helps as ice reduces the intensity of flavor by 40% (why serious scotch drinkers don't put ice or cool their beverage). I find lemon/lime products help quite a bit with the water. Even if filtered, could still taste/smell slightly funky (it's Florida).

What are fruit leathers?

Dried, pressed fruit - I think the brand "fruit to go" is one that is available in the US. I'm sure you know what they are, but by a different name.... all my weird Canadian language like "pop", LOL I just don't know what you'd call them.

[magicofdisney]

Fruit Roll-Ups!

I use liquid water enhancers (ie Mio, Crystal Light). It's about the only way I can tolerate the water to drink the proper amount of fluids.

Years ago, when I began traveling frequently, I designated a small carry-on suitcase as my toiletry "bag". For a while, I too had an extension cord in there. As hotels have gotten better about power supplies, I now just keep a power strip in the suit case. The case is always on standby, ready to go at a moment's notice. In my book, it's never too early to be prepared.