What to Wear to Disney World in May (Weather and Packing)

If you’re thinking about booking a trip to Walt Disney World in May, you’ll want to understand the weather so that you know what to pack. It doesn’t really share weather habits with very many places in the world, and it’s not as predictable as the tropics but far hotter than more northern climates. It’s also really humid. Combine that with the fact that you’ll probably be outdoors and not in shade more than you’re used to, and the Florida weather might catch you by surprise.

Pin those photo to Pinterest if you find the article useful!

Also, each month in Central Florida has different average highs and average lows, and the rain amount varies as well. Don't let any of this scare you because our many personal experiences in May at the most magical place on Earth have been amazing without exception. We go in May frequently, partly because my birthday is in the beginning of the month and partly because our kids usually get out of school before Memorial Day weekend.

Therefore, I put together this article about what to expect from the weather, what to pack for Disney. I’ll also cover what crowds and events to expect at Disney during May, and few of our best tips in general for a great Walt Disney World vacation. 

Weather at Disney World in May

First, the average low is 69 degrees Fahrenheit (or 19 degrees Celsius for non-American guests) and the average high is around 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius). There’s a lot of variation in the temperature between the beginning of the month, which is just a little higher than perfect, and the end of the month, which can frequently get into the 90s.

Here are the highs and lows for Disney World in May. Photo Cred: Weather Spark

Also, it’s important to remember that the time of day is key here. It will always be relatively comfortable in the mornings before 10AM and in the evenings after 7PM. However, like I mentioned above, the window for comfortable shrinks dramatically towards end the of the month. That being said, the brutal Florida summer doesn’t truly arrive until July and August, so if you’re coming for Memorial Day, you’ll enjoy it…probably. We do, and we’re headed back this year, just before the summer months start.

Last temperature thought—Florida is extremely humid, and you’re going to be outside in direct sunlight a lot (and probably walking a lot) during long days at the park. Therefore, take those temperatures and add 5-10 degrees to what you’re expecting, especially on park days.

Here’s the birthday button my wife got me for a trip in May. Sorry to the other dads I beat out for this award.

Now let’s talk how much it rains at Disney in May. It can rain a lot at Disney World any time of year. The end of May is the beginning of the rainy season (goes through October). So, while it only rains 20% of the time at the beginning of May, it gets as high as 40% by the end. Therefore, expect rain. Either plan to run, get wet, or bring a poncho.

The good news about the rain during rainy season is that it’s usually sporadic. A thunderstorm will move in quickly, soak everything, then leave. Then the sun will dry most everything up in an hour. The only exception is if a real weather system moves in, so check the weather. The sporadic showers usually don’t show up on the radar fast enough for you to prepare (so be prepared anyway).

How to Deal with the Heat at Disney

No matter how you prepare, it might be insanely hot, especially from 2-4PM every day. If that doesn’t sound like fun to you, check out the water parks at Disney World. Since Covid, Disney has kept either Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach open year-round. This is definitely a great way to beat the heat and still get some thrill rides. Water rides at the water parks or Kali River Rapids and Tiana's Bayou Adventure are always a great option in the warm weather. You can also hang out at the awesome resort pools (Disney lifeguards are amazing), take a nap in your hotel room, or head to EPCOT, which has by far the most air-conditioned areas. Finally, stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

For a full guide on dealing with the heat, check out my article about staying cool at Disney World.

What to Pack for Disney World in May

For the month of May in Disney World, it's a good idea to pack mostly T-shirts, shorts/skirts, dresses, tanks, biker shorts, jumpers/onesies, or whatever you wear to stay cool. Bright colors also help because dark colors absorb more heat. I almost never wear shorts, even in the summer (and I live in Atlanta), but I can’t handle the Orlando heat in pants after February. Now, I do recommend bringing a light hoodie or light jacket and long pants if you plan to be out at night or you’re planning on being inside for a long time. In order to save room, don’t bring multiple pairs of pants or hoodies.

Here’s the comfortable outfits we wore to Disney in May.

Also remember as you’re packing that you’ll be getting in and out of rides and using a public restroom a lot. Think about those activities before getting dressed in the morning.

For your kids, I recommend bounding-style princess dresses and other costumes rather than real princess dresses or worse, a full Sully or Beast costume. They are usually far more comfortable in the heat, which results in less whining and heat rash. Or you can just bring a change clothes once they get tired of the costume. A lot of times, we have different outfits for a morning at Magic Kingdom and an afternoon at EPCOT or Hollywood Studios, but we're extra.

And don't forget your bathing suit! There are plenty of chances to swim.

Also make sure to pack lots of waterproof/sweatproof sunscreen, chafing cream, aloe, hats, and sunglasses. Finally, if you’re really worried about the heat, check out my best portable fans for Disney. Also, the heat wears you (and especially your kids) out. Even if your kids haven’t been in a stroller for years, I recommend bringing one to keep the whining down. You might be uncomfortable in the heat, but in their mind, they are crossing the Sahara. Here’s the best single strollers for Disney and best double strollers for Disney.

What to Pack for Disney Any Time of Year

There are certain things you’ll want for a Disney trip any time of year. Pack all your Disney gear - hats, ears, shirts, and princess dresses. Don't forget the fun things - bubble wands, three-fingered gloves, and shoulder pets (my daughters just got me the devil/angel shoulder pets from Emperor’s New Groove).

Click on this link for the a full Disney Packing List

Again, it rains a lot, so pack ponchos or raincoats. Skip the overpriced park ponchos and grab a cheap multi-pack online or at Walmart.

As I mentioned above, if you’re bringing a stroller or scooter/ECV, bring a waterproof cover to keep the seats and souvenirs dry (most people opt for a poncho or shower curtain with clips, rather than a real cover). It’s rained plenty of times while I was in an indoor line. It was sunny when I went in and sunny left, but everything was soaked. So many soggy goldfish.

Next, good, comfortable shoes are critical. I highly discourage flip flops and fancy heels. Pack comfy socks and good walking/running shoes. Disney days are long, and you'll be doing some serious mileage, like over 10 miles a day. Blisters and Disney rash (it’s a thing, Google it) are real vacation breakers. I actually did a ton of research on the best shoes for Disney, so check it out.

Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses - always, no matter the season, but especially in May through the Summer. Florida sun is sneaky strong even when the temperature is low outside. Don't accidentally cosplay as Anger from Inside Out by day 2.

Wear sunscreen to avoid ending up like this guy we met.

Make sure to hydrate regularly. Bring a reusable, filtered water bottle, or get a large pack of water bottles delivered to your resort. Water fountains and free ice water are plentiful, but the taste can be...unique. Florida tap water in general has a sulfuric after taste, like eggs.

Lastly, pack for comfort! You'll be walking, riding, and having a blast. Save the fancy outfits for another time. Your feet and exhaustion level will thank you. But seriously, don't forget your Disney outfits.

Here’s my Amazon packing list (if you use my link, I may earn and go to Disney for my birthday).

Crowds and Events at Disney in May

The crowds at Disney are tolerable during May. Most school systems are still in school and past spring break, and even Memorial Day week tends to be lower than other holidays for whatever reason. However, there’s still a lot of special events going on at Disney World in May that you may (see what I did there?) want to be aware of. First, there are several sporting events in 2025. For a list of the upcoming events at ESPN Wide World of Sports, click here https://www.espnwwos.com/events/#view=list.

Sporting events typically cause random crowds and lulls because if everyone is competing, all the hotels are full (especially All-Star resorts and Coronado Springs), and no one is at the park. But when they’re at the park, well, they’re at the park.

Now let’s talk holidays and events. The first is May the 4th be with you. I’ll let you guess what date it’s on. It’s a Star Wars celebration focused on Hollywood Studios that has merchandise only available that day. Avoid Hollywood Studios if you’re not interested because it will be packed.

This was actually May the 6th (Revenge of the Sixth?) because we aren’t crazy enough to go on the 4th. But that Rey looks a lot like Rey don’t you think?

Next, Disney has the EPCOT International Flower and Garden festival going on during May. Head there for amazing topiaries, a butterfly garden (my daughters’ favorite when we go), creative food offerings, and beautiful horticultural and artistic displays celebrating Spring.

We found a topiary Figment at EPCOT during the Flower and Garden Festival.

Finally, there may be some summer celebrations near the end of the month. Nothing has been announced yet, but this year (2025), Universal is opening Epic Universe around that time, and Disney might feel a need to compete.

What Not to Pack for Disney World

To round out this packing guide, there are a few things you should never bring to Disney World. People over 14 years old can’t wear costumes unless it’s a Halloween Party. They don’t want adults tricking or confusing the kiddos.

You will not need a heavy winter coat in May, unless you have the flu or something. In which case, you shouldn’t come anyway. This will also take up a lot of room in your suitcase.

I also want to reiterate that you don’t want flip flops or high heels (though, you’ll see both).

Finally, don’t bring obscene or revealing clothing. Everyone has different opinions on what that means, but Disney will turn you away if they think your clothing is inappropriate or likely to malfunction.

Here’s a full list of prohibited items from Disney’s website.

Conclusion and Further Reading

May is a great time to go to the Disney parks. The average high temperature hasn’t topped out yet, and the crowds are relatively low. Furthermore, you can celebrate my birthday and anniversary with us, so it's obviously a great idea to head to Disney in May!

I’ve written about going to Disney in December and other months, so just use the search to Google the month you want. I also have a detailed packing for Disney guide, as well as a comprehensive Amazon shopping list.

If you’ve been on a Disney vacation in May, let me know what else you recommend in the comments.