I’ve spent decades souvenir hunting and visiting every store in Disney World, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that there are hacks hundreds of guests are likely not using.
The Emporium in Magic Kingdom
When you’re on vacation, you want to bring home a piece of the magic with you, but it can feel overwhelming. Between impulse buys, crowded stores, and waiting until the last minute, it’s easy to overspend and still leave wishing you’d bought something better. As someone who has been inside every single store at Disney World and also was a merchandise Cast Member, here are my top hacks for shopping for souvenirs!
1. Don’t Skip the Resort-Only Merchandise
Many guests never realize that some of Disney World’s best merchandise isn’t inside the parks at all. Resort gift shops often carry items you won’t find anywhere else, including apparel, home goods, and resort-branded souvenirs that feel more exclusive.
Shopping at resorts is also calmer and less crowded, making it easier to browse thoughtfully instead of grabbing something in a rush. I love collecting a souvenir from each resort that I stay in, whether it’s an ornament or a resort-themed pair of Minnie ears; it helps me remember my stay there!
BouTiki
2. Don’t Buy Items First Thing in the Day
Buying souvenirs early in the day is one of the most common shopping mistakes. Morning purchases often turn into all-day baggage, and impulse buys made before you’ve seen what else is available can lead to regret. Many items are sold in multiple locations across the parks, so there’s rarely a need to grab something immediately.
Taking note of what you like and circling back later in the day allows you to shop more intentionally and enjoy your day hands-free. If you do want to buy something but don’t want to carry it around, Disney does offer lockers at the front of each park that you can rent for a fee.
The Emporium
3. Don’t Wait Until the End of Your Trip to Buy Everything
While waiting until the last day might sound smart, it can backfire quickly. Popular items sell out, certain designs are location-specific, and end-of-trip shopping often feels rushed and stressful. A better strategy is to buy items when you find something you truly love, especially if it’s unique to that park or store (and if you see that there are only a few left), rather than assuming it will still be there later. Strategic, spaced-out shopping leads to better souvenirs and fewer disappointments.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Stores
4. Use Mobile Checkout Whenever Possible
Mobile checkout is one of Disney World’s most underrated shopping tools. Available in many larger stores, it allows guests to scan items, pay through the My Disney Experience app, and skip the traditional checkout line entirely. This can save significant time, especially during peak hours or at popular locations like World of Disney. If you know you want an item and just need to grab it quickly, mobile checkout makes souvenir shopping far more efficient. I love using it as a price checker tool as well for items that don’t have a price on the tag.
Mobile Checkout at Creations Shop in EPCOT
5. Shipping Items Home Is Worth It
Disney offers the option to ship purchases directly to your home, and for many guests, it’s a game-changer. Shipping eliminates the need to cram fragile or bulky items into luggage and reduces the stress of traveling with souvenirs. This is especially helpful for items like artwork, home décor, or multiple purchases made over several days. While there is a fee, many travelers find the convenience well worth the cost. When you head to check out, let the Cast Member know you are interested in shipping this item home, and they will have you fill out some paperwork.
Disney World Stores Raise Shipping Prices Significantly
You can get your items mailed directly to your home!
6. EPCOT’s World Showcase Has the Best Stores
If you’re looking for souvenirs that don’t scream “theme park,” EPCOT’s World Showcase is the best place to shop. Many pavilions feature items sourced from or inspired by their respective countries, including home goods, snacks, beauty products, and handcrafted pieces. These gifts often feel more authentic and meaningful than standard Disney merchandise and make excellent presents or keepsakes. World Showcase shopping is ideal for guests who want something distinctive and memorable. I love the wide range of items that I can find in Japan’s Mitsukoshi store, and China’s House of Goods store has unique snack flavors to try!
Mitsukoshi Department Store
We want to help our readers by providing information so you know what might be worth your money, or what you can do to save some on vacation. For more Disney World tips and trip-planning resources, be sure to follow us at DFB.
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The MAJOR problem with Japan’s Mitsukoshi store is they do not honor the passholder discount.