Look, I get it – you’re already spending a small fortune on your Disney World vacation. Between tickets, hotels, and those irresistible snacks (hello, Dole Whip!), every dollar counts. Let me share one of my favorite money-saving tricks that’ll help you redirect some of that budget toward the experiences that really matter.
Budget is important when thinking about a vacation to Walt Disney World, but not in the ways that you would normally consider.
Why spend more than a dollar at a Disney World Resort gift shop when you can buy it for a buck at home in the dollar store and then toss when after your vacation to make room for a new souvenir?
Yes, this is consumerism and horrible for the planet – but work with me on this and you’ll save more space in your budget for new and exciting experiences.
Show Me The Savings!
Let’s break down exactly what you’re saving (and trust me, it adds up fast):
- Ponchos: Dollar Store ($2-4) vs Disney World ($13-17)
- Bubble Wands: Dollar Store ($2-5) vs Disney World ($15-25)
- Light-up Toys: Dollar Store ($1-5) vs Disney World ($15-30)
- Basic Umbrellas: Dollar Store ($1-5) vs Disney World ($20+)
On just these four items alone, a family of four could save over $100. That’s a nice table-service dinner right there!
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Essential Dollar Store Finds
Ponchos
This is a basic for anyone who doesn’t want to get soaked in a classic Florida downpour. It’ll happen, and even if you’re prepared – it’ll still be uncomfortable when you’re hunkered down in a gift shop surrounded by families spending $13-$17 on an “official” Disney World plastic bag with Mickey on it (aka a poncho).
Bubble Wands
Easy to pack and a hit with the entire family (regardless of the ages) – pick up a package that includes a refill and it’ll save you $15+ on something that you would definitely not bring home at the end of your trip.
Light-up Toys
After the sun goes down, the parks become a sea of Disney merchandise carts with light-up toys that range from $5-$30 and usually break after the first couple days. I’ve seen guests exchange if they do break, but when you’re done the vacation – the toys just end up in a pile at home and will eventually make their way to a donation bin.
Socks
This is horrible to suggest but is also absolutely hilarious to see in practise. Imagine getting rained on in the typical mid-afternoon downpour and then walking around in wet socks for the rest of the day. Now think about how your feet would be if you changed socks after the rainstorms…..no one would know but it’s such a game-changer!
Batteries
Do you have anything that requires AA or AAA batteries? You definitely don’t want to spend $10+ on a replacement pack of batteries when you can have a replacement set in your backpack that will last you until you’re at the hotel.
Gum
Did you know that you can’t buy gum at Disney World? You know where you CAN buy gum….
Stickers
Keeping your family distracted in line could be as easy as pulling out the sticker book. I’ve seen it happen and it can change the mood from a potential meltdown at the worst possible time.
Cough Drops, Ibuprofen, etc
Anything that you could need to make it through a potential mid-day headache or cough-attack will make everyone happy. There are official Disney First Aid walk-in medical facilities in the parks that can provide these if you forget, just in case you need help!
Headphones
Bring your good headphones with you for the travel portion, but if you need a cheap pair that you wouldn’t mind break or get soaked in a Florida rainstorm….cheap dollar store for the win.
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New Must-Have Items You Might Not Think Of
- Hand sanitizer (those tiny bottles are perfect for park bags and you’ll use them constantly)
- Disney-themed party supplies (perfect for surprising someone with an in-room celebration)
- Basic first aid supplies (trust me, bandages for blisters are worth their weight in gold)
- Cooling towels (a lifesaver during those scorching Florida afternoons)
- Zip-top bags (great for protecting phones on water rides or storing partially eaten snacks)
Honourable Mentions
- Umbrellas (cheap-ish will save you $15+ in the parks)
- Disney-themed Candy ($1 on princess candy will save you $5-$8 at Goofy’s Candy Co)
- Charger Cables & Battery Packs (Get these on sale and you’ll be glad to have a backup, incase you don’t have a FUELROD membership)
- General Snacks (Granola bars, fruit snacks, potato chips, etc)
- Water bottles (We tend to recommend Swell and other higher-performance based water bottles, but anything is better than spending $5 on a bottle of water)
And the most recommended thing to buy at the dollar store…
Sunglasses
Have you ever heard that the most reliable sunglasses are the cheapest pairs, while the ones that constantly break are the expensive ones? Bring a pair of cheap sunglasses (sport-style are the best) and you’ll be fine if you drop them. I also tend to use my cheap ones on water rides, as I don’t like to miss the action!
Where to Find Dollar Stores Near Disney
If you can’t pack these items or forget something, don’t worry! Here are some nearby options:
- Target Superstore and Five Below (about 5-10 minutes from Disney Animal Kingdom at Rolling Oaks Commons)
- Five Below at by the Orlando Premium Outlets (great for tech accessories)
What NOT to Buy at the Dollar Store
Let’s be real – some things are worth spending more on:
- Rain jackets (if you want something actually waterproof and reusable)
- Phone chargers (stick with trusted brands – your expensive phone deserves better)
- Sunscreen (Florida sun is no joke – get the good stuff)
- Insulated water bottles (invest in quality if you want ice to actually stay frozen)
Smart Packing Tips
- Buy these items before you leave home – prices are usually higher in tourist areas
- Pack dollar store items in outer pockets or a separate bag – makes it easy to grab what you need
- Consider which items you’re willing to leave behind to make room for souvenirs
- If flying, remember that some items (like aerosols) might need to go in checked bags
Hope this was helpful! Remember, every dollar you save on these basics is another dollar you can put toward making magical memories (or, let’s be honest, more Mickey-shaped snacks).
Quality Expectations
Quick reality check: these dollar store finds aren’t meant to become family heirlooms. They’re meant to get you through your vacation while saving money for the experiences that really matter. Think of them as your Disney “disposables” – they serve their purpose and then make way for those special souvenirs you’ll actually want to keep!