Former Disney World Cast Members Are Sharing the Souvenirs They Never Buy and Why

Ever leave Disney World with a suitcase full of souvenirs only to realize you didn’t actually need half of them?

Disney World is definitely a treasure trove of merch, from shiny new Loungefly bags to bubble wands that light up Main Street. But if you ask former Cast Members, the people who know the parks best, they’ll tell you there are some souvenirs they just don’t buy. Whether it’s because of price, practicality, or just knowing a better alternative, here are the Disney World souvenirs that former Cast Members skip – and why you might want to as well.

Loungefly Bags (In the Parks)

Loungefly bags are adorable, no doubt. But buying them in the parks? Well, that’s where things get tricky.

Former Cast Members know that you can usually find a much bigger selection (and sometimes cheaper prices) online. Many of the same styles pop up on sites like the Disney Store or Amazon, where you might catch a sale or discount. Plus, carrying a brand-new backpack around all day isn’t exactly the most convenient move.

Disney Stuffed Animals

Sure, they’re cute. But they’re also everywhere. Disney plush toys are available in almost every shop around the parks, yet former Cast Members often skip them because they can also be found online or at Disney stores outside the parks for a better price.

Plus, when you’re already hauling bags of souvenirs, do you really want to carry around a jumbo Stitch or Mickey? Probably not.

Autograph Books

To be sure, meeting Disney characters is one of the most magical experiences at Disney World, but for that, do you really need a plain old autograph book? Former Cast Members say there are way cooler things to get signed.

Think outside the box. Try a tote bag, a reusable water bottle, or even a photo mat for a truly unique keepsake. You’ll end up getting a souvenir that’s more personal and something you’ll actually use or display.

Stickers

Believe it or not, Disney gives out stickers for free. Cast Members often have them on hand and will happily give them to guests, especially kids.

While the sticker packs in the stores might look tempting, there’s no reason to spend money on something you can easily score just by asking a friendly Cast Member.

Coffee Mugs

Disney coffee mugs are some of the cutest souvenirs around, but they come with a few downsides. First, they’re often priced higher than similar designs you can find online. Second, some of them aren’t even microwave or dishwasher safe (which, honestly, feels like a crime against coffee lovers).

Lastly, they tend to be awkwardly shaped, making storage at home a bit of a nightmare. Former Cast Members know that if they really want a Disney mug, they’re better off hunting for one outside the parks.

Bubble Wands and Balloons

They might be fun in the moment, but former Cast Members say these souvenirs are more trouble than they’re worth. Bubble wands are a hit with kids (and maybe a bit of a headache for parents), but they’re bulky, battery-operated, and you’ll be dodging bubbles in your face all day.

As for balloons, while they’re an iconic Disney sight, getting them home can be a real challenge.

Many airlines won’t allow them fully inflated, so unless you’re okay with deflating them and re-inflating later, they can end up being a waste.

The Bottom Line

Disney World is full of tempting souvenirs, but before you load up your suitcase with plushies and mugs, take a second to ask yourself questions like, “Can you get this cheaper elsewhere?” “Will you actually use it?” “Or is it just going to collect dust once you get home?” Your wallet and your luggage will thank you later.