3 Essential Things to Bring to Cedar Point

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Cedar Point is one of my all-time favorite places—but it’s no joke if you’re not prepared. One of the most common questions I get is: “What should I bring?”

Most people don’t realize the walk from the front gate to Steel Vengeance is nearly a mile—and if you’re there all day, you might hit 20,000 steps without even trying. You don’t want to carry more than you need, but you also don’t want to be stuck without the essentials.

Here are the 3 things I always bring with me—no matter what:


  1. My Park Bag

Your park bag might seem like a small decision, but it can make a big difference in how comfortable you are all day. The right bag can save your shoulders—and your wallet. Depending on what you bring (and how intense your ride plans are), you might even be able to skip purchasing a locker altogether.

I’ve got two go-to bags that I rotate between, and I recommend both for different reasons:

White tee shirt wearing a black cross body bag with a front zipper. To the right of the shirt is four more bags displaying the colors black, dark grey, light grey, and pink

Cross Body Belt Bag

Lightweight, comfortable, and just big enough for the essentials. I use this for days that I want to travel light and ride the big coasters!

Cross Body Belt Bag
Good for:

  • Traveling light

  • Storing a few items like your phone, debit card, sunscreen, and a car key

  • Securing your belongings during the rides (peace of mind you won’t lose anything!)

Head’s Up:

  • This bag is small and meant for minimalist travelers

  • You are not allowed to wear the bag over your shoulder while riding, it must go around your waist

  • This CAN be worn on most rides and is ideal to make sure your items are secure

    • Must use a locker for Top Thrill 2, Steel Vengeance, and Siren’s Curse


Purple backback with orange accents. There are two main compartments with one zipper pocket in the front.

Small Sling Backpack

A bigger option that is still lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to wear. I use this bag on days I need to bring more with me into the park.

Small Sling Backpack
Good for:

  • Families or groups that need to bring extra snacks, ponchos, wet wipes, sanitizer, tablets, multiple phones and/or wallets

Head’s Up:

  • This cannot be worn on any roller coasters meaning you will need to purchase a locker (Will easily fit into a locker)


2. Sunscreen

It’s super tempting to leave your sunscreen in the car with plans to reapply later but trust me, mid-day trips back to the parking lot feel extra long.

Cedar Point sits right on a Lake Erie peninsula, and the weather can shift fast. It often feels windier, cooler, or even sunnier than it does just a few miles inland depending on the season. Even on cloudy days, you can still get sunburned.

I recommend packing a travel-size sunscreen you can keep on you. I personally love roll-on versions—they’re quick, mess-free, and don’t leave your hands greasy.

Here are a few of my favorites:

A sunscreen stick that says "Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face &  Body Stick Sunscreen, Mineral Sensitive Skin, 50SPF"

Face & Body Stick Sunscreen

This roll on sunscreen is my go-to for park days. It’s easy to reapply while on the go and small enough to toss in my belt bag. I mainly use it on my face and shoulders.


3. Portable Charger

If you’re someone who likes to use their phone while waiting in lines or relies on the Cedar Point app for wait times or to scan your ticket, your battery will drain very quickly. Outlets in the park are hard to find and the few that exist (like the ones on the second floor of the pavilion or at Starbucks) are usually taken. A compact portable charger is a must if you want to stay powered up all day and bonus points if you can get multiple charges.

Here is the one that I have used for several years:

Anker

Power Bank

Cedar Point days are long and phone batteries might not last the entire day. I like to attach my cord and leave the charger in my bag while I walk around or stand in lines. This battery gives multiple full charges on one battery.


The items on this list are items that I believe every park guest should have when traveling to the park. They help me stay comfortable, prepared, and stress-free so that I can enjoy the day with my friends and family. Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth time, having the right gear makes all the difference.

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