5 Disney Impulse Buys You’ll Definitely Regret and How To Avoid Them
Written by
Lydia Kibet
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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You’re finally on a Disney vacation, and suddenly everything feels like a must-have. You spend money on a cocktail because it’s hot, a souvenir because a ride was amazing and a poncho because of an unexpected downpour. But once the trip is over and you’re at home, you’re left wondering why those Disney splurges that felt like must-haves are now regrets.
Here are a few common impulse buys that almost everyone regrets after a Disney trip and how you can avoid them next time.
Bottled Water
When the sun starts wearing you down, a cold bottle of water or soda can help you cool down. But at Disney World, these drinks are often expensive. It doesn’t take long before you realize how much you’re spending just to stay hydrated, especially if each family member is grabbing a drink every few hours.
Pro tip: The best way to avoid this is by bringing your own refillable water bottle and requesting free cups of ice water at quick-service restaurants. There are refill stations around the park if you know where to look.
Mickey-Shaped Snacks
The cute Mickey pretzels with ears are a popular item at Disney, and they always scream “Buy me.” You can hold it up in front of Cinderella’s Castle to snap a few pics, and you’ll feel like you’re living your best Disney life. However, they’re regular pretzels with a face. The same goes for the Mickey ice cream bar. It’s literally a vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate. You’re paying Disney prices for the shape.
Pro tip: We are humans, so pick one Mickey-shaped treat and spend the rest of your snack budget on things that are worth the price. Opt for something more special, like a Dole Whip or seasonal desserts that are exclusive to the park.
Alcohol
Drinking around the world at Epcot is fun. You walk around the World Showcase, sipping a fruity drink, thinking it’s the best day ever. A few hours and a couple of cocktails later, and you’re tired and carrying a drink you don’t even want anymore.
Pro tip: If you want a drink, go for it, but be picky. Choose something you’ll enjoy. Don’t fall for the trap of trying different drinks. You’ll end up regretting it.
Ponchos
Rain is almost guaranteed at some point during a Disney trip, and when the skies open up, Disney ponchos become one of the most common panic purchases. You don’t want to ruin your day, so you cave and buy a poncho. The worst part is that the rain usually passes quickly, leaving you wondering why you didn’t plan better.
Pro tip: Always keep a rain poncho in your bag. It doesn’t take up much space and could save you from shelling out more money. The only thing worse than being drenched at Disney is realizing you paid $10 or more to not be.
Plushies
Cute plushies can be irresistible, especially for plush collectors. But once you get home, you may realize you don’t have space for them and end up tossing them on a shelf or in a closet.
Pro tip: Instead of buying them the moment you see them, snap a pic and go about your day. If you keep thinking about them later, maybe they’re worth buying.
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