Packing for Great Wolf Lodge: What You Actually Need (and What You Don’t)

Packing for Great Wolf Lodge is simpler than most family trips because the resort provides the basics and you’ll spend most of your time in a swimsuit, so the list is shorter than you think.

We’re about to embark on our fourth trip to Great Wolf Lodge. If you’re still deciding whether a trip there is worth it, start with my full Great Wolf Lodge review first. But for this post, I want to focus on preparation, because I always see families hauling half their house with them. Some of it is necessary. Some of it… not so much. Let me help you decide what’s actually useful and what you can absolutely skip.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely use and love.

Let’s start with the non-negotiables. Some of this might seem obvious, but I recently showed up to the airport without ID, so no detail is too small here.

First up: swimsuits. I always say to pack two per person because no one likes putting on a cold swimsuit. Flip flops or shoes you’re fine getting wet are also a must. You will get splashed. For my kiddo, goggles are essential.

I like to bring a coverup I feel comfortable walking around in because you inevitably get distracted by the ice cream shop or arcade between pool visits, and I’m not a fan of wandering the resort in just a swimsuit. If you think you’ll want your phone in the water park, I’d recommend a waterproof phone case or dry bag. Refillable water bottles for everyone are also a must.

They technically say you can’t bring outside food or beverages into the water park, but I’ve had snacks and my tumbler in my bag every time and have never had an issue. I also recently got an awesome beach tote that’s been a game changer because I can set it on the ground and everything doesn’t get soaked.

And of course, if you’re staying overnight, you’ll need the essentials: pajamas, changes of clothes, and toiletries.

Next, let’s talk about the nice-to-haves.

I love bringing a laundry bag on trips. It gives you an easy place to toss dirty clothes and helps keep the room from turning into chaos. A bag for carrying things around the resort is also helpful. I mentioned my pool bag, but a backpack works just as well. You’ll definitely want something.

If you have an automatic bubble wand at home and want to avoid buying an overpriced one onsite, charge it up and bring it. They are everywhere, and I have made the mistake of showing up empty-handed more than once.

If you’re a white noise person, bring one. There are Magic Quests on most floors and kids running around constantly. It’s nice to have a way to drown out the noise when you’re ready to rest.

Rooms have mini fridges and microwaves, so if you want to save money on food, I highly recommend bringing some family favorites. For us, that’s fruit, string cheese, sandwich stuff, lower sugar kids drinks, and some adult beverages. Just simple things you can grab quickly. There are plenty of food options onsite, but you’ll save a lot if you bring some basics.

Now for the things you don’t need.

Toys and games. There is so much to do all day, every day, that you’ll likely have very little downtime in the room. Dress-up clothes are unnecessary. It’s an extremely laid-back environment. Most people are in swimwear or pajamas. While there are nicer restaurants and bars at many locations, I’ve never felt underdressed no matter what I was wearing.

I’d also avoid bringing a large stroller unless it’s absolutely necessary. It’s busy, crowded, and navigating with something bulky would be tough. For the pool, you don’t need towels or life jackets. They’re provided. And leave the giant flamingo floatie at home. They aren’t allowed.

One thing I’ve learned about Great Wolf Lodge is that opinions are very divided. I can’t wait to come back and share my full review.

If you’re ready to plan a trip to Great Wolf Lodge or anywhere else and want help with the logistics, I offer travel planning services and would love to help. Wondering what that costs? The answer might surprise you… here’s my honest breakdown.

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Becca Marsh

Becca Marsh is a certified travel advisor affiliated with Fora Travel and the voice behind Wanders & Wink, based in Grants Pass, Oregon. A lifelong traveler who has explored every U.S. state and dozens of countries from the street food stalls of Vietnam to the Michelin-starred restaurants of Paris, she specializes in food-forward family travel that actually delivers on the fantasy. She takes her own family on at least six trips a year (research, she calls it…) and brings that firsthand experience to every itinerary she builds for her clients. She believes great travel is accessible to everyone and will always tell you exactly where to go and what to order.