Welcome to planDisney, Jackie!
We're thrilled you floated over to our practically perfect corner of the internet today. Florida is called the Sunshine State for a reason, so you're certainly smart to consider UV protection for your upcoming visit.
While I've seen an array of sunscreen available for purchase in both the parks and resort gift shops, I must admit, I've never noticed whether UV umbrellas were also located nearby. I reached out to a Cast Member, who confirmed that rain umbrellas and ponchos are typically available for purchase at many
merchandise locations (you may need to ask a Cast Member at the register for them), but unfortunately, they couldn't confirm specific details of currently available products. As you can imagine, inventory is always subject to change, so you might want to come prepared with your own compact UV umbrella just to be safe.
If you're looking to add a bit of flair to your accessory collection, personalized hand-painted parasols are available for purchase at the Parasol Cart on Main Street, U.S.A. (in the alcove between Crystal Arts and Uptown Jewelers) in
Magic Kingdom Park. While they make a gorgeous souvenir and "provide excellent protection from the sun’s rays and Florida’s rain showers," according to Rubio Arts (the same talented team responsible for classic hand-cut Silhouettes and the iconic Mickey balloons you see all over the parks), they don't fold down into a compact size. They certainly serve their purpose and make for beautiful photos, but you might want something that easily fits in your park bag for added convenience.
When I visit, I stock my park bag with essentials like a refillable water bottle, hand sanitizer, sunglasses, chapstick, and hair elastics (for taming post-attraction hair). I always pack a few disposable ponchos in case of a pop-up storm as well. Some days I feel like Mary Poppins digging through her carpetbag for treasures, but I'd rather be overprepared when "somethin’ is brewin’ and bout to begin." Sunshine can quickly change to "winds in the east, mist coming in" before you can finish a spoonful of sugar.
I recommend reviewing the
prohibited items list to ensure you don't accidentally pack something that goes against Walt Disney World Resort property rules. I'd also suggest removing any magnetic or metal items from your bag and holding them out ahead of you as you walk through the security scanners. My sunglasses case sets the alarm off every time, so keeping it out ahead helps the security Cast Members determine what's triggering the alarm without having to go through my entire bag. Umbrellas may do the same, so it’s worth keeping in mind.
Jackie, I'm sorry I didn't have a firmer answer, but I'm wishing you a
supercalifragilisticexpialidocious vacation all the same. If we can answer any additional questions, please "step in time" right back to planDisney and let us know. We always make sure that in every job that must be done, there is an element of fun!
Magic and memories,
Amy