This year, we took our 5th trip to Great Wolf Lodge, and I finally feel like I’m starting to get the hang of it. Especially if you’ve never been there, figuring out what to pack can be a nightmare! The good news is, Great Wolf veterans are always there to share some tips.
You MIGHT Want Floaties
Great Wolf Lodge has a ton of life vests in every size a kid could need. On our trip this year, I noticed something new: Puddle Jumpers! There is a limited number of this specific style floatie, but there were always plenty available while we were there. If your kids are comfortable with life vests, there are PLENTY to go around.
Do NOT Pack Towels
My biggest rookie mistake, that I made two times in a row, was packing bulky beach towels. This is my biggest tip: do NOT pack beach/pool towels for Great Wolf Lodge. When you walk into the water park, you won’t be able to miss the big box of towels. Take what you need, but don’t hoard them. There are plenty to go around. It really does make your packing so much lighter and your trips to and from the water park from your suite so much easier.
Bottled Water
Spending time in the pool can definitely dehydrate you. What’s the best way to battle that? Drinking water! There is water available for purchase at Great Wolf Lodge, but we always bring a big case with us. Our family drinks A LOT of water as it is, and bringing our own is more convenient and saves a little money. There are plenty of recycle bins around the lodge for your plastic bottles, but you could also bring a few gallon jugs of water and refill your own reusable bottles.
No Bed Rails? No Problem.
Traveling can be tricky when your kids outgrow the crib (and pack and play) but roll themselves right out of the big bed. There are two great solutions at Great Wolf Lodge that mean you do NOT need to pack an air mattress or bed rails. If you are staying in one of the suites with bunk beds, there is a raised lip around the bed to help little ones stay snug and safe. If your kids are sleeping in traditional beds, you can ask the friendly staff at GWL help you get rails installed in time to snuggle in for the night.
Other Quick Tips:
- Every room has a fridge and a microwave. The food options at The Lodge are good, but sometimes it’s nice to have your own stuff in your suite.
- There are suit spinners in the locker room. Before we leave the water park, I always make a trip to the locker room so that everyone can spin the excess water out of their suits. This way, the can definitely be dry after hanging up in the room. I also think 2 suits per person is the perfect amount to pack.
- You’re not really going to need “real clothes.” Our family spends our time at GWL in swimsuits and coverups or in sweats and t-shirts. Be comfy and, like they say, have a howling good time!
This is still on our to-do list . . .great list and tips!
Mine too. This will be helpful if we ever make it there.
Which location did you visit? There are a few.
I think she went to Charlotte.
Hi there! Yes, just like Erin said, we were in Charlotte. I’d love to check out Williamsburg sometime soon though. I’ve heard good things. =)
I’m going on Saturday, I’m so excited! How much money do you think we should bring? For the gift shop and stuff.
I know this isn’t the most helpful answer, but it’s honestly up to how much you want to spend. I’d look at the Paw Passes online before you go and see what you think. Otherwise, you can spend as little or as much as you want.
Can you do a packing list too? This was very helpful. Also if your room does not have a fridge say you have medicine you need to be cold and they will bring you one right up with no charge!
I’m hoping to take the kids soon so thanks for the tips!
Love this. We took the kids to GW in Kansas City a few years ago – they were IN LOVE. It is such a great place to visit – esp in the Winter 🙂
Thanks for the tips. You show the floaties and puddle jumpers, but I was wondering if those were for sale or to use while in the swim park … Thanks.
They are available while you are there.
I have gone to Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound, WA and it was sooooo fun! I am going today for my 4th time and I agree that not bringing towels is the thing to do. The towels are fairly small so I normally get 2. Locker rooms are very crowded, so I figured out to dry off and go up to my room to change. 🙂