Best Disney Souvenirs To Buy BEFORE a Disney Vacation
Shopping for the best Disney souvenirs before you go on vacation? Keep reading for the best Disney souvenirs to seek out ahead of a vacation, along with finding the top items at the lowest prices.
What are the Best Disney Souvenirs?
Narrowing it down to the best Disney souvenirs is really a matter of personal preference. While some guests prefer practical souvenirs like t-shirts and coffee mugs, others gravitate towards popcorn buckets, Minnie Mouse Ears, and bubble wands.
Disney parks are the most magical place! And naturally, your family wants to bring home a piece of the magic when vacation time is over. While there are some items that can really only be found in the park (or at a premium price on Ebay), many souvenirs can be purchased ahead of your trip.
Is there a list of the best Disney World souvenirs? What are the must-have items for a Disneyland vacation? What are the absolute best Disney souvenirs?
I'll be outlining a few of the best Disney souvenirs with a focus on the items that can be purchased ahead of your vacation. Keep reading for the ultimate guide of best Walt Disney World souvenirs and Disneyland souvenirs to buy before you go!
Why Buy Disney Souvenirs Ahead of Time?
Planning to bring home Disney World souvenirs before your trip? Yes, that seems a little backwards, but there are some great practical reasons why you should purchase souvenirs before a Disney trip!
Why should you consider buying your Disneyland souvenirs before your vacation? These are four top reasons to pre-buy souvenirs.
Cost benefit of pre-purchasing Disney souvenirs
You'll save a great percentage by buying items at home and bringing them with you versus purchasing them in the Parks. If you want cheap Disney souvenirs, this is a great reason! Many licensed Disney products are found in lower priced retail stores like Walmart and Target.
More choices when you purchase souveniers ahead of time
No need to feel "stuck" with the limited choices available in the Parks, at Disney Springs, or Downtown Disney. You'll have the option of picking from the entire world wide web if you order before you leave home!
You'll save precious vacation time in the theme parks
Why spend your vacation shopping for trinkets when you could be maximizing your Park time, swimming in the resort pool, or sipping another Dole Whip float? Pre-purchasing souvenirs is particularly important if you have a short Disney vacation planned and there's little downtime for shopping in the souvenir shops.
Avoid the shopping meltdown all together
Going into the souvenir shops and toy stores can be meltdown inducing for many young kids. Avoid the stress of shopping on vacation with toddlers in tow by purchasing ahead of the trip.
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Best Disney Souvenirs on a Budget
When figuring out a Disney vacation budget, working in the cost of souvenirs is part of the planning process. Setting aside money for souvenirs is just as important as budgeting for a hotel or dining, especially if this is a once-in-a-lifetime Disney trip! You'll want to research which souvenirs are worth the expense.
Do Disney souvenirs cost more at the theme parks?
Disney souvenirs bought in the Disney parks can be more expensive. When compared to buying similar or even the exact same items at Disney Store, the online prices can be much lower.
Aim to shop when you can use a discount coupon or take advantage of a sale. Sign up for the Disney Store emails and you'll know when sales happen.
Are there exclusive souvenirs only found at Disney theme parks?
Yes, there are some exclusive Disney souvenirs that can only be found in the parks. If these are a must-buy for you, these are definitely the items you should purchase in the park rather than getting price-gouged on Ebay. Limited edition popcorn buckets are an example.
How much to budget for Disney souvenirs?
Disney theme park souvenirs come in a variety of prices, from just a few dollars to many hundreds of dollars.
If you're planning your first Disneyland vacation, you might be unsure what to budget for souvenirs. Start the budget planning by looking at the price of items on the Disney Store website.
More often than not you can purchase items while at home for a reasonable price. There are also some cheap Disney souvenirs that you can purchase ahead of your trip and take them with you on vacation to use in the Disney parks!
Many items like Mouse Ears and Spirit Jerseys will have similar pricing in the parks. Other items like plush, toys, and dolls are often higher priced at Disneyland and World Disney World shops. It's best to buy these types of souvenirs online ahead of your vacation.
Create a vacation budget that includes souvenirs
Work those must-have souvenirs into your budget when planning out how much a Disney vacation costs (use this free printable worksheet!).
Keep reading for my list of best Disney souvenirs to buy BEFORE you go on a trip. Read more if you're planning a First Disney World Vacation!
Can You Ship Items to the Disney Resort Hotel?
No need to fill up your suitcases before your trip. Order items to have them arrive when you return from your trip as a surprise for the kids!
Another option is to have items sent directly to meet you at the Disney Resort hotel. You can have souvenirs shipped to you at the hotel for some Disney magic when you check-in.
Work in a few extra days for shipping delays and sorting time. These are the stipulations for deliveries to the hotel, from Disney:
From the Disney parks website: "If you intend to receive mail during your vacation, be sure the letter or package" -
- Includes the mailing address of your Disney Resort Hotel
- Clearly features the word “Guest” on the front and the date of your arrival
- Please note that a per package handling fee will apply to all packages that are received through the Front Desk (except groceries) at Disney World. There may be an additional fee if you request to have items delivered directly to your Disney Resort hotel room.
Disney Souvenir T-Shirts
I saw a souvenir t-shirt at Walt Disney World that I was considering for my baby girl on my last visit. That was, until I saw the price tag of $30 - yikes! You can get three for the price of one if you shop wisely beforehand.
Target, Disney Store, and Amazon all have fantastic authentic Disney designs and you won't be paying more than you should for one tee.
Unique and Personalized Disney Vacation Shirts
If you'd prefer a more unique look, try shopping the small businesses on Etsy for your Disney-themed shirts. You'll be unlikely to see anyone else wearing the same shirt you are while in the parks!
Minnie and Minnie Me T-shirts on Etsy (similar to what is shown on my daughter & me in the photo above)
Polka Dot Pixie Shop on Etsy has tons of creative designs, including this it's a small world themed tee.
Where to find discounted t-shirts at Disney parks
There are deals to be found at the Disney parks, if you know where to look! This special rate of quantity purchased tees was found at Downtown Disney at Disneyland.
I can't guarantee that you'll find them this inexpensive, but the World of Disney usually offers a bundle discount on t-shirts. These are unique designs not to be found in other retailers - and the price is comparable.
What are the Best Disney Vacation Accessories?
Disney Mouse Ear Souvenirs
Those iconic Mickey Ear Hats and Minnie Mouse Ear Headbands aren't essentials, but they definitely add magic to your Disney wardrobe. Did you know you can get the classic Mickey Ears hat before your first Disney trip?
If it's Minnie Ears you're after, the prices at Disney and the prices online are the same. Disney Store sells Minnie Headbands at the same price as in the parks. However, you can often apply a discount code or take advantage of sales online to save money.
Budget-Friendly Accessories for Disney Vacations
If you're aiming to save on the cost of your travel accessories, Amazon offers inexpensive options for all ages. Expect lower quality pieces that you should be able to use for several trips - if you handle them with care.
Disney themed ball caps and hats
For those looking for additional practicality, choose Disney hats that will shield the sun from your eyes. A Disney baseball hat will also be wearable after your trip.
Where to Find the Most Unique Disney Accessories?
As an alternative to shopping at the theme parks, consider purchasing handcrafted and unique designs on Etsy. Yes, these handmade styles are often more expensive than the Disney versions. However, they are usually also more comfortable and wearable!
Minnie Ear Headbands - Artisans craft uniquely creative and beautiful Minnie Headbands, like these from OrangeBlossomEars.
Hair Clips - These Magical Pigtail Clips from PopililyBowtique are a sweet choice, especially for younger visitors. Very reasonably priced and won't cause discomfort like headbands often do.
Is a MagicBand+ Important for Disney Vacations?
MagicBand+ has been an important part of a Disney World vacation for years. MagicBand+ in Orlando can be used to enter theme parks, to redeem Lightning Lanes, make purchases, and unlock hotel rooms.
This can make MagicBand+ very convenient for guests at Walt Disney World. They are however, not necessary when visiting Disneyland.
Should you purchase a MagicBand before vacation?
Yes, you should absolutely buy your MagicBand+ before going on a Disney vacation, for several reasons.
MagicBand+ needs to fully charge and get set up before your trip, ideally while you're still at home. The interactive MagicBand+ must also be paired to your smart device. This version can be used on both coasts and comes in a variety of styles.
Disney Pins for Trading and Souvenirs
Disney trading pins are a fun and small-sized souvenir. Some guests like to trade their enamel pins with other travelers or with Disney cast members in the parks. Pin trading is both a fun activity and a way of acquiring unique souvenirs.
Can you save money on Disney trading pins?
Some of these souvenir Disney pins are PRICEY! Purchase ahead of time by shopping for individual Disney Parks authentic trading pins from Disney Store when they are on sale.
A word of warning if you purchase trading pins elsewhere - they may not be authentic Disney pins. They may look a lot like official Disney trading pins, but they're not. Be aware that inexpensive mystery or bulk lots are often filled with counterfeit "scrappers". You get what you pay for, in this case.
If you must buy trading pins in the Parks, choose only those pins that can't be purchased elsewhere or that are limited edition event specials. You'll also know that when you purchase at the theme parks you're buying authentic merchandise.
Disney Princess Dresses
The mark up on a Disney Princess dress in the parks is extreme. Yes, these are the exact same dresses you can find online at Disney Store or in similar styles at retail shops with a deep discount.
Purchase the Disney Princess dresses and accessories online before you vacation, especially when you can take advantage of a sale or use a coupon code.
Can you bring your own dress to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique?
Yes. Even if your child is participating in Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, they can still wear a pre-bought Disney princess dress (or whatever they'd like to wear).
There are lower priced packages at this Disney parks make-over salon that eliminate the cost of the outfit add-on. This will include the hair styling and make-up, but you'll be wearing your own clothing.
Use this guide to the Best Places to Buy Disney Princess Dresses, with tips for buying high quality and low priced costumes for kids.
Looking for another budget-friendly princess make-over option? Skip the in-park upsell completely and do your own DIY Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in the hotel room!
Kid's Budget Disney Dress Up Alternatives
When looking for the best kid's Disney outfits, seek outside the normal princess costumes and go for comfort! There are lots of basic cotton designs that are perfect for a day in the theme park and are much easier to play in.
These adorable cotton princess dresses from Amazon are under $20 each and can be worn after vacation is over.
Disney Lanyards
Lanyards can serve multiple purposes. Use lanyards to hold trading pins, paper park tickets at Disneyland, or your medical identification.
Purchase a lanyard in the Parks or find them online. Some even have a coin purse or pouch to hold cash. Amazon sells Theme Park Authentic Lanyards that have convenient clips and loops.
Disney-Themed Coffee Mugs
Many of the same Disney coffee mugs and water bottles can be found online ahead of your trip. Purchase online and have them shipped to your home. This can help avoid the possibility of breakage in your suitcase on the return flight!
Where can you buy the Starbucks Disney mugs?
These park-specific Disney mugs are found inside the Starbucks at each respective theme park - or at inflated prices on Ebay. Been There Starbucks mugs are only sold in the theme parks.
The You Are Here line of Starbucks mugs were briefly sold online, but have now been discontinued. If you want to start a Starbucks Disney mug collection, you'll want to pick these up while you're on vacation.
If you want these popular mugs for your coffee cup collection, count on purchasing in the parks. At around $20 each they are a decently priced Disney souvenir (and are personally my favorite to buy!).
As an alternative to the mugs, Starbucks Tumblers are regularly found on Disney Store.
Disney Keychains to Buy Before Your Trip
A keychain or trendy bag charm can be an inexpensive souvenir to shop for on a Disney vacation. There are tons of different options, both in the theme parks and online.
Purchase these keychains from Disney Store when on sale to save more money (then use the savings to get a churro!).
Souvenir Disney Plush
Buying a cute little stuffed animal in the Parks come at a premium price. Why not buy them upfront and take advantage of frequent sales and special offers? Online stores have deep discounts on popular Disney plush characters.
You can still get Mickey and Minnie - but you'll likely get them for a steal when you buy them beforehand. Some plush toys, like these found inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, might not be found outside the parks.
Disney Autograph Book
One of the best low cost Disney souvenirs is an autograph book. Collect the signatures from your favorite characters in a Disney autograph album that you purchase before your trip. Gift the kids personalized autograph books and a pen as a great souvenir before your vacation.
Inexpensive autograph keepsake for a Disney trip
Favorite characters sign their autographs in some meet 'n greet locations and Disney World or Disneyland character dining experiences.
For a completely unique souvenir, save space in the autograph album to add a photograph next to the signature.
Disney Toys and Entertainment
There are so many Disney toys sold in retail shops and online. You should definitely avoid making toy purchases while on vacation. These are a few of the best Disney souvenirs to buy ahead of time then bring with you on the trip for kids to play with.
Action figures
Small Disney action figures invite imaginative play! My kids loved to carry around a few characters with them throughout the day to play with while waiting in line or at a restaurant.
Bubble wands
Disney bubble wands are notoriously expensive, then often quit working as soon as you get home. Tipping them sideways to pack in luggage tends to cause them to clog and stop working.
Instead of buying bubbles wands at the theme parks, purchase an inexpensive version online to bring with you. Pack bubble solution separately to fill in the park. Rather than packing them to bring home, pay it forward by gifting the bubble wand to another child at the end of your vacation!
Vehicles
Disney-themed vehicles can be a great way to entertain kids in the hotel room. This set of small mini Cars racers are fun and easy to carry with you.
Disney Jewelry and Accessories
Many Disneyland and Disney World theme parks sell jewelry, all in a wide range of prices. Souvenir shops offer kids costume jewelry sets with plastic beads, personalized pieces that are customized in the store, as well as high-end gold and silver jewelry.
Children's costume jewelry, bows, and hair extensions (like these sold in Bibbibi Bobbidi Boutique) are easily purchased online at a fraction of the price.
Disney Pandora Charms
Okay, I'll admit it, I can't seem to stay out of the Pandora shop! I've purchased myself Disney Pandora charms at both the tiny shop in New Orleans Square in Disneyland and the dreamy Main Street U.S.A. shop at Walt Disney World. They also sell Pandora at the World of Disney too!
Can you buy Disney Pandora charms on sale?
Pandora seems to have a set price on their charms, so you won't find that the price higher or lower by much. They do sometimes put the Disney Pandora charms and jewelry on sale at Disney Store.
If you have the inclination to purchase Pandora charms, check Disney Store first and see if you can use a discount code.
Souvenirs to Save the Memories
Don't leave your pictures trapped in the camera. Buy these items ahead of time as a reminder to go through images and print the photos! Capture your memories on vacation - then you'll have a place to display them when you return from the trip.
Disney themed picture frames
Perfect for framing and displaying those coveted Disney character meet 'n greet images. This solid oak Personalized Pixar Character Frame from LoveOlivex on Etsy captures favorite Pixar characters in a fun display of your memories!
Disney parks photo magnets
Show off the best shots from your trip in a prominent spot! These Disney fridge magnets from OneLittleSprk come in both Disneyland and Disney World versions.
Disney vacation photo album
This stunning Disney wooden photo album is personalized with the family name for the ultimate gift. It's a beautiful keepsake that is sure to become a precious part of your home.
Disney memories photo ornament
Display on the Christmas tree or all year round, these Personalized Photo Ornaments from EDesignShopUSA on Etsy can be customized with your choice of personalization.
Souvenirs to Purchase in Advance for the Disney Resort Pool
Resist the urge to buy a new bathing suit, sandals, sunglasses, or towel in the Disney Resort gift shop. These impulse purchases will cost twice as much as if you were to buy in advance.
Purchase Disney swimwear and towels before you leave home on Disney Store when they go on sale.
Best Disney Souvenirs to Keep Cool
Going to Disney when it's hot? Read this article for more tips to Surviving Disneyland in the Heat and other items to buy before your vacation.
Misting fan
This colorful Mickey-ears misting fan has a USB rechargeable battery, rotating handle, and misting feature to give you a blast of refreshing cool air throughout the day.
Cooling towel
Simply wet and snap this Mickey icon cooling towel. Drape around your neck to reduce core temperature on scorching days in the theme parks.
Sunglasses
A must have on bright and sunny days, the Disney souvenir shops do sell sunglasses at a premium price. Bring a pair of these Minnie Polka Dot Sunglasses with you. There are over 15 colors to choose from!
Disney Souvenirs to Keep You Warm and Dry
I have several "souvenir" sweatshirts from day trips to Disneyland when the weather was chillier than expected! $80 later - I wasn't cold anymore. But I could certainly buy a nice Disney-themed sweatshirt or jacket for much less at home. Here are a few ideas on what to buy ahead of your vacation to keep you cozy.
Sweatshirt
Polka Dot Pixie Shop on Etsy has some of the cutest designs and I have several tees from them. Love this Peter Pan-inspired Neverland Sweatshirt!
Cold Weather Hat
During cool months, choose a warm Disney beanie that will keep your head toasty. The pom-pom ears are adorable and there are several version available.
Spirit Jersey
A Disney Spirit Jersey will cost the same in the parks versus online at Disney Store ahead of your trip. The benefit of buying online is the ability to take advantage of a sale or use a discount code on your purchase!
Rain poncho
Don't forget to pack rain ponchos if showers are in the forecast! Read these tips for what else to bring to Disneyland on a rainy day.
Disney Souvenirs to Light Up the Night
Light up items are one of the best Disney souvenirs. However many of the toys in the parks are highly overpriced. No need to skip glow items - just buy them before your trip and pull them out when night falls!
Glow Sticks and Jewelry
I'm a big fan of these inexpensive bulk glow bracelets and necklaces. The glowing jewelry makes it easy to spot my kids after sunset. I also use a few to wrap on the handle of the stroller so we can find it in the crowd once it's dark.
Light Up Toys
As soon as the sun is setting, the Disney Parks crew will pull out the carts stocked full with fun toys that glow and spin.
Come prepared with your own light-up souvenirs for the kids, like the Mickey Mouse Glow Wand. You're going to save yourself a ton of money having these already purchased before your trip!
Bonus Way to Save Even MORE When Buying the Best Disney Souvenirs!
Consider signing up for a website bonus like Rakuten, that sends you cash back simply for shopping through their link. I have the Rakuten browser extension on my desktop and the mobile app on my phone. Rakuten just applies a pop-up when you shop on a site that offers a cash back percentage, so you just have to click one button to start saving!
See these Bluey and Bingo Squishmallows that are sold at Disney theme parks? They sell these same plush online at Disney Store, and they're currently on sale! Then, you'll save an additional 2% cash back (or more) through Rakuten, just by activating the link button. It's so easy and you can save a decent amount if you frequently shop online.
Disney Snacks to Pack
While not a souvenir, some snacks should be pre-purchased and packed in with you. Tote in your usual snacks in a Disney theme to add to the magic.
Pack snacks in a Disney-themed container that can be used on vacation and reused at home. Retailers also offer Disney-themed snack foods like Goldfish, fruit snacks, and these Foodles snack packs.
What Disney Souvenirs SHOULD Be Purchased in the Parks?
Are there any souvenir items you should always purchase in the parks? Buying your souvenir in the theme park can be a sentimental way of memorializing the special occasion of a your first trip.
If you plan on shopping on vacation, try the World of Disney Store along with shops inside the parks to find the best souvenirs. Keep in mind that some items will only be found IN the theme parks and not at Disney Springs or Downtown Disney.
These are some of the top Disney Parks merchandise items to consider purchasing on vacation:
Mickey Mouse balloons
Theme park exclusive balloons may include different styles, including Mouse Ears inside of an event-themed balloon. These are sturdy balloons. Some guests deflate Disney balloons for travel, then reinflate again once they get home.
Pressed pennies
There are pressed penny machines located all around the theme parks and hotels. The penny designs represent different locations around Disney property, an excellent (and inexpensive) memento of the trip. My son has a Pressed Penny Collectors Album like this one to store his pennies.
Disney exclusive Christmas ornaments
Disney ornaments representing a variety of styles and characters can be found in shops throughout the resorts. Decorate the Christmas tree with the perfect souvenir from Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Magic Kingdom or Plaza Pointe at Disneyland.
Seasonal event souvenirs
These unique Disney souvenirs are only sold during annual special events, including the Disney Food & Wine Festival.
If you fall in love with something that commemorates a special event at the theme park, better buy it there. You probably won't find that sold anywhere else and they change up the merchandise offerings each year.
Disney park snacks and treats
Certain snack items and sweets are only sold within the theme parks. If these are a must have take-home item, buy them before your vacation ends.
Theme park exclusives linked to a limited-time event
Some events at the theme parks only happen once or once-in-a-while. Exclusive merchandise often won't be found outside of the park gates. So if there's something you see while attending the event, best to purchase it, as you likely won't see it again!
This article originally published on Feb 9, 2017 and has been updated and republished with a new date.
