Souvenirs are all part of the Disney World experience. You walk into the Emporium on Main Street USA, take one look at the colorfully stocked shelves, and before you know it your arms are full of 5 stuffed animals, 2 mugs, and a Spirit Jersey, and you’re standing there wondering “How did this even happen?”
Yup, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying souvenirs during your Disney trip. But as your friends here at DFB, we’re gonna let you in on the souvenirs you should totally stay away from and save a bit of that extra cha-ching in your pocket for something a little more worth it (and maybe even an extra snack or two).
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Stay away from balloons!
We get it. They’re colorful, they float, and sometimes they feature your favorite Disney characters. But it’s a trap, we tell ya! Balloons are fun in the moment, sure, but one POP! and it’s bye-bye souvenir. Another big con to purchasing balloons is that they are not allowed inside of Animal Kingdom.
Yup, if you’re planning to park hop to Animal Kingdom at any point during the day, we’re sorry to inform you but your new inflatable pal can’t come with you.
Also, if you’re traveling with a stroller and plan to tie the balloon to it, you’ll be smacking a lot of people in the face all day, including yourself (those floating menaces, tsk tsk).
However, Disney World is the place where dreams come true, so if your heart still desires a balloon, just keep in mind that you can have it deflated at the Disney Store in the airport. Once you’re back home, you can take it to any place offering helium and have it re-inflated. A happy ending for all!
We must end the reign of Bubble Wands once and for all!
Ok, we’re joking here. We love bubbles as much as the next person, but bubble wands at the Magic Kingdom can cost a pretty penny. And all for maybe a couple minutes of playtime before either the bubble solution runs out (oh — and heads up ’cause that stuff will get all over the inside of your park bag) or the kids get tired of holding that heavy bulky thing all day. Yeah, no, I think we’ll pass.
We do understand though, that sometimes the joy that lights up your kiddo’s face when they see the first cloud of bubbles float from out of their wands is absolutely worth it. So if you want to gift them that experience but rather save your Disney bucks, we recommend purchasing them online.
The Disney Store official website has a ton of great character-themed bubble wands, including this adorable Sorcerer Mickey-themed one, and they are currently FREE with a $100 purchase (just use code GIFT at checkout!). This is a great opportunity to buy those souvenirs you’ve been eyeing while also getting a bubble wand and avoiding the extra cost of it at the parks.
Shop this Bubble Wand at the Disney Store!
Ponchos will possibly be a big regret.
When we think of a perfect trip to Disney World, we picture clear skies and warm weather. However, in Florida, that’s not always the case. So now you’re at Magic Kingdom and it’s pouring rain and you’re left with no choice but to purchase a poncho as your souvenir. An expensive one at that.
So even if you’re fantasizing about picturesque weather, we think you should definitely be prepared and purchase a poncho online where they’re priced reasonably. That way you won’t be forced to shell out for one at the parks (because why buy a poncho as a souvenir when there’s plenty of better stuff you can purchase at Magic Kingdom? Like bubble wands! J/K LOL).
This rain poncho comes in a pack of 2 and is still wayyyy less than the price tag of one at the parks. And because they’re designed as a rain jacket, they’re a lot easier to put on and take off — something that will come in handy with how unpredictable the weather in Orlando can be. Better quality and a better price? Count us in!
Shop this Rain Poncho on Amazon!
Autograph books? We’ll pass.
Autograph books are a great keepsake. You have a fun way to interact with characters and a great way to remember all your Disney trip memories. But this souvenir suffers from the same issue as most of the items on this list: they are CHEAPER ONLINE! And sadly, Disney World doesn’t offer price matches.
So although we’re not saying these are souvenirs you should avoid, we do think it’s best you purchase them online beforehand. A lot of these autograph books feature popular characters and have really fun designs, making them a great alternative choice to the ones at the parks.
This Disney-themed autograph book features all our favorite Disney pals. It even comes with the cutest Mickey pen! With all the fireworks in the background and a classic castle, it’s the perfect souvenir to bring with you to the parks and to keep after as a reminder of all your fondest trip memories.
Shop this Autograph Book on Amazon!
Fuel Rods
OK, you’ve probably heard all about FuelRods because we truly do swear by them; BUT, we think it’s a much better option to avoid purchasing them at the parks and buying them online instead.
For the price of one FuelRod at the parks, you can get 2 on Amazon, along with cables and adapters! And even if you purchase them online, they can still be switched out for fully charged ones at the FuelRod kiosks inside of the Disney parks. A definite win-win. Look at you thinking ahead!
It’s a no for the Minnie Ears
Finally, the controversial Minnie Ears. But before you come for us (and we totally get why) hear us out for a sec. We love Minnie Ears as much as the next person, but we’re not gonna lie and say that the ones at Disney World aren’t EXPENSIVE. And although it makes us look and feel adorable, it’s sometimes not worth the (literal) headache we get from wearing them.
We’re not saying you should avoid getting them entirely, though. The truth is, you can find more comfortable pairs of Minnie Ears online! Not only that, but you can find really unique ones with stunning designs themed after characters, attractions, your favorite treats, and more! The best part? They’re a whole lot cheaper, too!
And there you have it. Some Disney World souvenirs you’ll regret buying in Magic Kingdom. Stay tuned as we bring you all the latest and greatest tips, tricks, and Disney news!
Disney Is Giving Out FREE Souvenirs Online Today!
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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Do you have a Disney souvenier you regret buying? We’d love to read about it in the comments!
The post 6 Disney World Souvenirs You’ll Regret (!!!) Buying in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog.