What Can You Bring Into Walt Disney World?

So you’ve planned the ultimate family trip to Orlando, but you’re not quite sure of one thing: what can you bring into Walt Disney World?

Disney World’s security policies have evolved over the years. Understanding what you can and cannot bring into the parks saves time and prevents disappointment at the gates.

Here’s everything you need to know before you arrive at any of the theme parks.

You CAN Bring Food and Drink

Despite what many first-time visitors assume, Disney World is surprisingly accommodating when it comes to outside food and beverages. You’re absolutely allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the parks, including full meals, sandwiches, crisps, fruit, and basically anything you’d pack for a day out.

Water bottles are permitted, including reusable metal ones, which is particularly useful given Florida’s sweltering climate. You can also bring soft-sided coolers, provided they’re no larger than 24cm x 38cm x 51cm. For families visiting on a budget, this policy is a genuine lifesaver – theme park food adds up quickly, and there’s nothing stopping you from bringing a packed lunch.

The exceptions are straightforward. Glass containers aren’t allowed, with the sole exception of small baby food jars. Alcohol is banned, as is anything requiring heating or preparation. You also cannot bring loose ice, though ice packs and frozen water bottles are fine.

You’ll see plenty of families sitting on benches throughout the parks eating their own sandwiches without any issues. If you’re bringing a cooler, pack ice packs rather than loose ice, and be mindful that you’ll be carrying it around all day – Florida heat can turn a heavy cooler into a serious burden.

Size Restrictions on Bags and Personal Items

Disney imposes size restrictions on bags to keep queues moving and maintain crowd flow. Your bag cannot exceed 61cm x 46cm x 28cm, which rules out suitcases, large hiking rucksacks, and anything that looks like you’ve packed for a weekend away. Standard backpacks, handbags, and nappy bags are absolutely fine.

Wheeled bags are prohibited unless they’re required as a mobility aid. This includes those small wheeled suitcases some people use as day bags – they won’t make it through security.

One item that catches people out is wagon-style pushchairs. These are banned, though standard prams and buggies are welcome. If you’re travelling with young children, make sure your pushchair fits Disney’s guidelines before you arrive.

Camera bags and photography equipment are allowed within the size restrictions, so if you’re planning to take serious photos, you can bring your gear without issues. However, if you’re planning commercial filming or photography, you’ll need separate permission from Disney’s media team.

Items That Might Surprise You

Here’s where it gets interesting. Selfie sticks are not allowed in any of the parks. They were banned in 2015 after a number of incidents involving them. Likewise, folding chairs are not allowed.

You can bring small portable phone chargers – in fact, they’re practically essential given how quickly your battery drains when using the My Disney Experience app all day.

All medication is permitted, including EpiPens, inhalers, and prescription medicines. You don’t need documentation for personal medical supplies. Baby supplies – formula, baby food, nappies – can be brought in unlimited quantities, and Disney doesn’t make parents feel awkward about it.

What’s Banned From Disney World?

Several items are firmly banned. Drones and remote-controlled toys aren’t allowed anywhere on property. Any weapons, including toy guns or replica weapons, will be confiscated. Fireworks and explosives are obviously prohibited.

Large tripods are generally banned, though small tabletop ones may be allowed on a case-by-case basis depending on the cast member’s discretion.

Clothing with offensive language or imagery isn’t permitted, and costumes are banned for guests aged 14 and over, except during special ticketed events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

Special Circumstances

If you have mobility needs, both Disney-provided ECVs and wheelchairs and your own personal mobility devices are welcome. Medical equipment and supplies face no restrictions – bring whatever you need.

The distinction between service animals and emotional support animals matters at WDW. Trained service animals are permitted throughout the parks, whilst emotional support animals are not, following standard ADA guidelines.

What Can You Bring Into Walt Disney World? Pack Smart, Enter Quickly

Disney World’s security policies are, for the most part, remarkably guest-friendly, particularly when it comes to bringing food and drink into the parks.

The key is planning ahead. Leave prohibited items at your hotel, keep your bag organised, and you’ll breeze through the gates and into the parks with little delay.