Mimi Does Disney

More Resources to Save Money at Disney World

Visiting Disney World is a magical experience, and part of that magic includes bringing home souvenirs to remember your trip. However, with so many enticing options, it’s easy to overspend. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you budget for souvenirs at Disney World, ensuring you get the most value without breaking the bank.

Set a Souvenir Budget and Stick to It

Before you even step foot in the parks, determine how much you’re willing to spend on souvenirs. Consider your overall vacation budget and allocate a specific amount for souvenirs. This will help you stay on track and avoid impulsive spending. For example, if you’re planning a week-long trip, a budget of $100-$200 might be reasonable, depending on your financial situation.

Research Prices Ahead of Time and Save a Little Every Week

Do some research on typical souvenir prices to get an idea of what to expect. Websites, blogs, and forums dedicated to Disney World can provide current prices for popular items such as Mickey ears, t-shirts, and mugs. Knowing these prices in advance can help you plan and prioritize your purchases. It will help you put the right amount of money to the side, or help you know how much in gift cards you should buy. Do this every week to help minimize the budget hit.

Make a Wish List

Create a wish list of the souvenirs you really want. Prioritize these items and focus on purchasing them first. This helps you avoid buying unnecessary items and ensures you get the souvenirs that matter most to you. Include a mix of small, affordable items and perhaps one or two higher-priced keepsakes.

Use Disney Gift Cards & Shop Smartly

Purchase Disney gift cards before your trip and use them exclusively for souvenirs. This method helps you stick to your budget since you can only spend what’s loaded onto the card. Gift cards can be purchased in various denominations and are available at many retail locations and online.

• Buy Early or Late: Consider buying souvenirs at the beginning or end of your trip. Shopping early ensures you get the items you want before they sell out. Shopping late helps avoid carrying items around all day.
• Look for Sales: Disney occasionally offers discounts and sales on merchandise. Keep an eye out for these deals, especially in Disney Springs or during special events.
• Consider Off-Site Shops: Stores near Disney World, such as those in Orlando, often sell Disney merchandise at lower prices. While the selection might differ from the parks, you can find great deals on authentic Disney items.

Mix and Match

Combine high-priced items with more affordable souvenirs to stretch your budget. For example, if you splurge on a high-quality item like a Disney Dooney & Bourke bag, balance it out with smaller, less expensive items like pins or keychains.

DIY Souvenirs

Create your own Disney-themed souvenirs before your trip. For example, purchase plain t-shirts and iron-on patches or fabric markers to design custom Disney shirts. This can be a fun family activity and saves money. We have more ideas here: Mimi Says Bring the Magic Home.

Take Advantage of Annual Passholder Discounts

If you’re an annual passholder, remember to use your discount on merchandise. These discounts can range from 10% to 20%, which adds up to significant savings, especially on higher-priced items.

Use Disney’s Mobile App

The My Disney Experience app allows you to browse and compare prices before making purchases. You can also check stock availability, ensuring you don’t miss out on must-have items.

Plan for Next Time

If your budget doesn’t allow for all the souvenirs you want this trip, start planning and saving for your next visit. Knowing you can get those coveted items next time can help reduce the temptation to overspend now.

Souvenir shopping at Disney World is a fun and memorable part of the experience, but it doesn’t have to be a financial strain. By setting a budget, prioritizing your purchases, and shopping smartly, you can enjoy bringing a piece of Disney magic home without overspending. Remember, the best souvenirs are those that hold special memories of your magical trip, not necessarily the ones with the highest price tags. Happy shopping!