We’re sharing the items we won’t be buying again in Magic Kingdom to help you learn from our mistakes!
Cinderella Castle
After countless trips to Walt Disney World, including our fair share of trial-and-error purchases, our Disney expert team has learned exactly what’s worth spending money on — and what’s just not. We’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to. Here are five things we absolutely never buy anymore in Magic Kingdom.
1. Balloons
Those giant Mickey balloons are a pain. They might look magical floating above Main Street, but the reality is they’re awkward to carry, especially when you’re juggling snacks, maps, or wrangling kids. Even clipped to a stroller, they have a way of bouncing into your face (or someone else’s) when you’re walking. And after the novelty wears off — usually before lunch — you’re stuck managing a massive balloon for the rest of the day. It’s also good to note that you cannot take balloons inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge for the safety of the animals.
Balloons
2. Bubble Wands
Every child’s dream and potentially, every parent’s mild regret. Bubble wands are adorable, and the kids go wild for them for about 30 minutes. After that, you’re stuck with a pricey toy that constantly needs refills, which cost extra. If you have more than one kid, prepare to buy multiple. You can grab cheaper ones before your trip to save you money and time!
Ariel Bubble wand in Magic Kingdom
3. Rain Gear
It’s Florida, which means it’s probably going to rain. But buying ponchos or umbrellas inside the parks? We say skip. We’ve been there when you are caught in a sudden downpour, racing into a shop, paying an absurd amount for a thin plastic poncho that feels like wearing a sticky trash bag. And umbrellas? They’re bulky, overpriced, and in those Florida storms, they won’t hold up. Now, we always pack rain gear ahead of time. You’ll get better quality for a fraction of the price, and you’ll be ready when those inevitable clouds roll in.
Our Tips and Tricks for Conquering Rainy Days in Disney World
Don’t forget your rain gear!
4. Bottled Water
Buying bottled water throughout the day in Magic Kingdom adds up fast. It’s hot, you’re walking miles, and staying hydrated is a must, but there’s absolutely no reason to keep shelling out $5 every time you need a drink. We bring our own reusable bottles and refill them at water fountains or ask for free cups of ice water at any quick-service restaurant. It’s a game-changer and one of the easiest ways to save money in the parks.
Water Bottle Refill Station By TRON
5. Anything Large
That giant stuffed Mickey might seem like a fun souvenir. That is until you realize you’re about to ride Space Mountain and have nowhere to put it. We’ve learned (the hard way) to never buy anything bulky early in the day. Unless it fits in a locker or easily tucks under a stroller, it becomes a logistical nightmare. You’ll be stuck carrying it, squishing it into tight ride queues, or paying to ship it home. If you must have it, grab it at the end of the day or have it shipped to your house so you have a nice little gift waiting for you when you get home.
The Cinderella Castle toy
As much as we adore the magic of Disney, not everything sold inside the parks is worth your time or money. With a little planning, you can avoid these common pitfalls — and have more fun (and fewer regrets) on your next Magic Kingdom adventure. We will bring you our favorite Disney World tips and tricks, so be sure to follow DFB!
Magic Kingdom Is Planning a Dramatic Attraction Overhaul — Here’s Everything We Know
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About tip number 5 – Is resort package delivery back? I would have expected the online equivalent of a parade on DFB if so! 😁
Sadly, resort delivery has not yet returned, but you can have items shipped to your house.
Aw, darn. Thanks Gigi!
I have NEVER bought those things. Balloons are a bother, bubbles are annoying, bottled water is expensive, rain gear makes you sweat, and big things don’t fit in my suitcase…
In no particular order here is my list:
1 – Park Tickets
2 – Parking
3 – Lightning Lane
4 – Food of any kind
5 – After hours events
I just feel like the Magic of Magic Kingdom is gone for some reason. Maybe after the new lands it will be different.