18 Essential Disney Souvenirs to Buy Before You Go

Learn which items to purchase before heading to the most magical destination!

The time has finally arrived—you’re going to Disney World!

You’ve scrimped. You’ve saved. You’ve planned. And, probably planned some more! Finally, your resort reservations are made, Genie+ times secured, and dining plans booked.

As a result, you’re thinking, “I’ve got this—I’m totally ready to go to Disney World.” Not so fast! While you’re making your lists and checking them twice, be sure to use our list of things to buy before you visit Disney World to maximize your savings and minimize expenses.

Trust me. A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your pocketbook isn’t empty when you return home.

bright yellow fireworks shooting over the Walt Disney World Cinderella Castle in Orlando, Florida, USAWhat to Buy for Disney Trip: The Essential List

Hand Sanitizer

Disney World Theme Parks might pride themselves on being a super clean park (and it is). But nevertheless, germs are still everywhere. And, if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll pick up those germs as an unwanted souvenir.

Instead, purchase hand sanitizer before you go so you can easily wipe those hands when they start touching everything. It’s also a wise move to bring a disposable pack of Lysol wipes.

You can wipe down strollers and dining tables to ensure cleanliness with these in tow.

Related Post: Current Festivals and Events at Walt Disney World Resort

Ponchos

Picture this: you’re having a magical time at Disney World. Then, it starts to rain. (In Orlando, pop-up showers happen all the time.)

To avoid your family becoming a soggy mess, you shell out $10 a pop for ponchos that’ll most likely end up in the trash before you get home. Don’t do this! Instead, invest in a few cheap ponchos before you go.

Stow them in your backpack (you should bring a bag to the park), and you’ll avoid an expensive mistake. This is one of the things to buy before you visit Disney World that’s a huge money-saver.

Grandpa with two grandchildren in Disney hats at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Walt Disney World via Facebook

Must Have for Disney Trip – Mouse Ears

You might not think you want Mouse Ears when you visit Disney World. However, once you get to the park and the magic takes over, you’ll be jealous of everyone rocking their Ears.

As such, your kids (and you!) will probably break down and spend the money to join the magic masses of Mouse Ear wearers. But, if you purchase your Mouse Ears in advance, you’ll not only save money but can start wearing those ears as soon as you enter the park.

Two women in bright pink and red outfits showing off their matching pin ears and bows at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Natasha Williams via Facebook

What to Buy Before Disney – Disney Costumes and Clothes

The same sentiment about Mouse Ears holds true when it comes to Disney costumes and clothes. Once you enter the park, it seems like everyone is in Disney gear.

And, all of the shops selling outfits will beckon to your children. Without a doubt, they will see a ton of Disney World must haves.

However, you can avoid shilling out premium dollars for in-park t-shirts and princess dresses with a little bit of planning and pre-purchasing. Before you visit Disney World, some of the best things to buy for Disney World are family t-shirts and costumes for your little ones.

Related Post: 5 Tips for a Successful Disney World Winter Vacation

Typically, they’re about half the price, so you’ll save a ton of money by doing so.

kids hugging donald duck at the disney world welcome center meet and greet with characters

Disney Souvenirs to Buy Ahead of Time – Autograph Books

Any visit to Disney World isn’t complete until you’ve experienced a character meet and greet. This is a magical moment made even better for kids when they get their favorite character’s autograph.

As such, buy an autograph book before you go. That way, your kids can have their memory-making moment, and you can rest assured you didn’t spend top dollar on an autograph book.

Pro Tip: Purchase clickable sharpies before you go, too. Characters don’t have pens at the ready, and these clickable sharpies mean you don’t have to fiddle with caps.

Elsa and Anna with two young girls signing their autograph books at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Walt Disney World via Facebook

Sunscreen

You’re visiting the Sunny State, so it seems like packing sunscreen would be a no-brainer. However, the basics can sometimes slip through the cracks with everything else you have to pack.

Don’t let this happen, though, or you’ll end up paying theme park prices when your skin starts to fry. Sunscreen is one of our must haves at Disney World.

Related Post: Ultimate Guide to Walt Disney World®: Coupons, Discounts, and Deals

Souvenirs to Buy Before Disney – Disney Pins

Pin trading at Disney World is a big deal. It’s also a really fun way for your kids to engage with Disney Cast Members, and they make for a fun souvenir.

Purchasing pins at the park can get expensive fast, though. So with that in mind, purchase a pin starter pack before you go. That way, your kid can start trading once they enter the park.

Disney Souvenirs to Buy Before You Go – Lanyard

A lanyard is one of the things to buy before you visit Disney World if you plan on pin trading. Lanyards make it easy for you to store your pins.

In addition, they make a good holding spot for other items like tickets and printed Genie+ passes. Just be sure you don’t put any tickets or Genie+ passes in your kids’ lanyard if they’re prone to losing things.

family walking through disney world's animal kingdomExternal Battery Pack/Phone Charger

When you’re at Disney World, you’ll be using your phone a lot. Between using the My Disney Experience App, taking pictures, and keeping kids entertained in ride lines, that battery power can quickly go from 100% to 10%.

Avoid this by bringing a portable battery charger with you. This way, you can keep your phone charged on the go. Trust me. This is one of the Disney World must haves. A dead phone can quickly ruin the day.

Related Post: How to Meet Disney World Characters: Your Guide to the Magic

Water Bottles

Did you know you can fill up your water bottle free of charge at any Disney concession? It’s a free and easy way to stay hydrated throughout the day.

In addition, you won’t have to spend $3 on a bottle of water every time one of your kids is “so thirsty!” I recommend collapsible water bottles as they take up less space in your daypack.

Must Have Items for Disney World Trip – Cooling Towels and Misting Fans

Walt Disney World is in Central Florida. As a result, it can get hot and sticky—especially if you visit during the summer months. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to bring items that help you beat the heat. Cooling towels and misting fans will be your best friends when that Florida heat starts to make you melt.

Pack Snacks

Yes, Disney World does have some delicious snacks you should definitely try (what to buy at Disney World? Dole Whip…yum!).

However, you’ll also want to pack some healthy snacks for your family, so you’re not forking over a fortune every time someone is starving (which seems to happen every hour!).

Family on vacation at Toy Story Disney World Orlando Florida

Disney World Trip Must Haves – Glow Sticks and Light-Up Toys

Once night descends on Disney World, a whole new variety of things to buy at Disney World pop up. And, once your kid sees those glow sticks and spinning light toys, they’ll simply have to have one as it’s one of the best things to buy in Disney World.

Create your own magic by making these items some of the things to buy before Disney. For example, you can easily and cheaply pre-purchase glow stick bracelets, wands, and necklaces that’ll make your kids feel like a part of the magic.

Related Post: Insider’s Guide to Walt Disney World®

Ear Muffs

Ear muffs on our list of Disney World stuff to buy? Parades and shows at Disney World are seriously magical. But, unfortunately, they’re also seriously loud. So, depending on the age of your little one, you might need ear protection to save them from the high volume of shows and parades.

Purchase ear muffs before you go, and you can rest easy knowing your tiny tyke won’t suffer any hearing damage at the most magical place on earth.

First Aid Kit

Traveling with kids undoubtedly means someone will experience a boo-boo. (And, if you’re like me, it may just be mom!) So come prepared with a small first aid kit so you can easily nurse those small scrapes and bruises back to health.

child dining with mascots with plates of food on table at Disney World Character Dining in Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Walt Disney World via Facebook

Foldable Blanket

This is an item I wouldn’t have thought to purchase until I saw someone using one. But then, I had blanket envy! It’s a wise item to pack for watching parades and fireworks as it gives you something cushy to rest on. It beats concrete any day of the week.

ID Tattoos for Children

Disney World is a safe place. That said, kids can go a bit looney upon seeing their favorite characters in person. As a result, they might run ahead and easily get lost in the crowd.

Be sure to have their contact information on their person so Disney cast members can contact and reconnect you ASAP.

Bubble Wands

I dare you to blow bubbles with a frown. It’s simply impossible! With that in mind, bubble wands are one of the things to buy before you visit Disney World that’ll keep your kids preoccupied while waiting in line or waiting for shows/parades to start.

Character Mascots Woody and Jessie along with other Toy Story characters ready to interact with guests at Disneyworld, Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Perry Merrity II via Unsplash

What to Know Before You Go

What is The Cheapest Date to Go Disneyland?

If you’re budget-conscious and seeking the least expensive timeframe to visit Disneyland, the trick is to go during their designated off-peak season. The periods of mid-January to February and September to mid-November usually offer the most affordable options. Visiting during these times not only saves you money but also allows you to enjoy the magic of Disneyland without the peak-season crowds.

Related Post: Best Times to Go to Disney World: An In-Depth Guide

Should I Bring Cash to Disneyland?

Rest assured, cash is still absolutely accepted at the Disneyland Resort. Furthermore, just to offer you utmost convenience, you’ll discover ATMs aplenty within the resort grounds, ready to dispense extra cash should you need it during your stay.  No need to worry about inconvenience!

What Clothes are Not Allowed in Disney?

Clothing with objectionable material, including obscene language or graphics is definitely off the list when it comes to what to wear in Disney World. Aim for clothing that’s comfortable and weather-appropriate. Disney is a place known for its all-day walking, so it’s crucial to choose attire that won’t hinder your enjoyment. A pair of comfortable shoes and light clothing seem like the perfect choice!

Make the Most of Your Magical Visit

With this list, you can pre-purchase items that’ll not only save you money but time. Make a checklist before you go, too, so you’re sure not to miss packing any essential item.

Do you have an item you recommend buying before visiting Disney World?

If so, tell us about it in the comments.

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1 comment about “18 Essential Disney Souvenirs to Buy Before You Go”

Maria Smith

August 8, 2022 at 4:07 am

Cooling towels
Great for cooling you down, all you need is a little water and the cooling is activated.


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