11 Things to Buy BEFORE Your Next Disney World Vacation
When it comes to packing, there are two kinds of people: the ones with a detailed checklist who pack everything a month in advance…and the ones shoving their clothes into a suitcase the night before and hoping for the best.
Photo: Disney
While neither method is right or wrong, there’s definitely something to be said for a little planning and preparation. After all, just a bit of forethought can save you QUITE the headache down the line!
If you’re packing for a Disney vacation, you’ve probably (hopefully?) been thinking about exactly what to pack in your park bag. Because planning ahead isn’t just about reducing stress – it’s ALSO about SAVING MONEY.
Suitcases
Yup, that’s right!
If you’re looking to save money in Disney World (and let’s face it, WHO ISN’T?), you can get ahead of the game by buying certain items BEFORE you get to the parks.
Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom
Sure, you can find just about anything you might need on Disney property. From diapers and toothpaste to over-the-counter medicines, Disney usually has you covered in a pinch.
But on the flip side, many of these items will cost you MORE to buy on Disney property than they would at home.
Photo: expressodisney.com.br
So before you head off for your next magical Disney vacation, check out these 11 items to buy BEFORE you get there!
11 Items to Buy BEFORE Your Next Disney Vacation
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something, we may earn a commission.
1. Ponchos
If you think you won’t need a poncho on your Disney World vacation, I’d gently encourage you to think again. Florida weather can be unpredictable, and often involves a daily rainstorm (especially if you’re traveling between June and November).
Disney World in a Storm
For that reason, a PONCHO is an absolute park-bag essential! Sure, you COULD buy one inside the parks, but it’ll definitely cost you a pretty penny.
Instead, plan ahead and grab a family pack of ponchos — like these Lingito Rain Ponchos – for a fraction of the price.
Credit: amazon.com
These disposable ponchos come in adult and child sizes and are conveniently lightweight, making them super easy to throw in your park bag.
2. Snacks
I know, I know — half the reason you’re going to Disney World is for the SNACKS! You haven’t even left yet, and you’re already salivating over DOLE Whip, Mickey pretzels, churros, and more.
Lime Pie Dole Whip
But if you want to save some money on food in Disney World, you should know that you can (and should!) pack your own snacks from home. Obviously, I am NOT suggesting you forgo your favorite Disney Parks snacks – but staple snacks from home can tide you over in a pinch AND give your wallet a much-needed breather.
We suggest portable, non-perishable snacks that won’t melt in the Florida heat. Our favorites include KIND Nut Bars…
Photo: Amazon
…GoGo Squeez Applesauce Pouches…
Photo: Amazon
…and single-serve Nature’s Garden Healthy Trail Mix Snack Packs.
Photo: Amazon
These simple snacks will save you some cash AND help you stay healthy on your next trip.
3. H20
If you’ve ever been inside any theme park anywhere, you already know that bottled water is NO small investment.
Photo: Disney
Instead of forking over your hard-earned cash to stay hydrated in Disney World, opt for a reusable water bottle like the Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle.
Photo: Amazon
This 24-oz bottle is easy to carry and will keep your water cold and refreshing for up to 24 hours!
4. Stroller Covers
If you’re visiting Disney World with kids in tow, there’s a whole bunch of extra gear you’ll need to pack in that suitcase.
One thing that’s SUPER important but often overlooked is a stroller cover. Honestly, it’s just one of those things that you forget you need until you NEED it (and trust me, you probably will need it at some point).
Rain in Magic Kingdom
Of course, Disney’s always one step ahead of the game, and you can find stroller covers at many gift shops and merchandise locations throughout the resorts and parks. But you’ll save yourself a lot of money if you buy one BEFORE you go.
We like this Bermece Universal Stroller Cover for a single stroller…
Photo: Amazon
…and this Weather Shield Double Stroller Universal Rain Cover if you’re toting a double.
Version 1.0.0
5. Disney Gear
Of all the things to buy BEFORE your Disney vacation, Disney gear is probably the most fun to purchase. So don’t wait until you’re inside the parks to splash out on a new Mickey Mouse t-shirt! Chances are, you can find something VERY similar for MUCH cheaper — if you just plan ahead!
For example, we love this classic Disney Mickey Mouse Men’s T-Shirt, which you can score for a fraction of what you’d spend in a Disney Parks gift shop.
Photo: Amazon
Planning a trip to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique? You can save a bit of cash by buying your princess’s Disney Princess dress ahead of time (NO, you don’t have to buy the ones they sell inside the shop!).
We love this Disney Princess Aurora Dress Costume…
Photo: Amazon
…and this Snow White-inspired Dressy Daisy Princess Dress, which offers a more comfortable and park-friendly option for active kids.
Photo: Amazon
Even better? This one also comes in versions inspired by Cinderella, Rapunzel, Belle, and more!
6. Sunscreen
If there’s one thing you don’t want to run out of in Disney World, it’s SUNSCREEN — so avoid paying premium prices by stocking up before you go!
For maximum protection, we love this highly-rated Banana Boat Sport SPF 50+ for its sweat- and water-resistant formula.
Photo: Amazon
When you buy ahead of time, you can take advantage of sales, deals, and discounts that you won’t get on Disney property.
7. Autograph Books
In case you missed it, autographs are a BIG thing in Disney World. If you or your kids are planning to meet your favorite Disney characters, do yourself a favor and buy your autograph books before you show up for your park day!
Scrapbook Autograph Book
Minnie Mouse fans will love this pink Disney Minnie Mouse Autograph Book, which features thick, unlined pages that are just perfect for autographs…
Photo: Amazon
…while this version celebrates Mickey and the WHOLE gang!
Photo: Amazon
8. Portable Phone Charger
In Disney World, your cell phone is your most valuable tool. You’ll use it to manage your schedule, book your Lightning Lane selections, and navigate the parks. Not to mention all the pictures you’re taking!
Photo Source: Engadget
Of course, with all the use your phone will get on your Disney vacation, a portable charger is an absolute must.
Fuel Rod
Don’t wait until you get to the parks to find out that hard way that YES, this is one gadget you really DO need. While you can buy portable chargers inside the parks, you’ll find them much cheaper elsewhere, so be sure to get yours before you go.
We like this INIU Portable Charger, which comes in several colors and is compatible with iPhones, iPads, and Samsung phones.
Photo: Amazon
9. First Aid Items
Nobody likes to think about getting sick or being injured on vacation, and luckily, there are plenty of options if you require health services in Disney World. Still, planning ahead is always a good idea — and just a little bit of forethought can save you a lot of time, stress, and money!
AllergyFreeMouse.com
When you’re packing for Disney World, be sure to include over-the-counter medications, like Tylenol, Pepto Bismol, allergy medications, and anything else you think you may need.
It’s also wise to pack a First Aid Kit, like this Johnson & Johnson Travel Ready First Aid Kit, which includes bandages, gauze, cleansing wipes, and more.
Photo: Amazon
10. Misting Fan
When it comes to beating the heat in Disney World, misting fans are ALWAYS a win. Unfortunately, the ones you’ll find inside the parks can come with a hefty price tag.
Disney Misting Fan
Instead, buy one ahead of time to save yourself some cash! These O2COOL Deluxe Handheld Water Misting Fans come in a variety of colors and are small enough to stash in a standard-sized backpack.
Photo: Amazon
11. Insect Repellent
When heading for a warm-weather climate, most of us remember to pack the sunscreen. But have you thought about insect repellent? Florida is home to plenty of bugs, including pesky mosquitoes and no-see-ums, making insect repellent an absolute necessity.
We like this OFF! Fragrance-Free Insect Repellent for Adults and Kids…
Photo: Amazon
…and these Cliganic Mosquito-Repellent Bracelets for a DEET-free option.
Photo: Amazon
Ready to Book Your Next Disney Vacation?
MickeyTravels can help! Their talented agents can help you secure the perfect accommodations and plan a magical Disney itinerary, all at no extra cost to you!
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As always, stay tuned to MickeyBlog for all the latest Disney Parks news!
