2-years at Disney World. I never buy these 10 park items

As someone who attended Disney World every year as a child, worked there for two years, and now works as a travel agent, I have established opinions about what I do and do not spend money on at the parks.

Here are things I never buy at Disney.

I never spend money on single-use water bottles, despite the importance of hydration.

Each water bottle at Disney can cost upwards of $4. When in the Florida sun all day, it is important to stay hydrated, but not at this expense.

There are water faucets available around Disney World, but I typically bring a water bottle to refill throughout the day.

Most quick-service restaurants offer complimentary cups of water, so there’s no need to spend $4 on a beverage every time you want one.

Popcorn buckets are supposed to help you save money, but purchasing Figment popcorn buckets at Disney World defeats their purpose.

Every season, it seems, amusement parks offer new, adorable popcorn buckets.

There are usually several options, and some Disney fans enjoy collecting them. However, I do not grasp the appeal.

I do not understand where people store these enormous buckets when they are not at Disney. Even in the parks, I prefer not to carry something cumbersome in addition to everything else I bring.

If, unlike me, you enjoy eating popcorn in theme parks, you may be able to save money on refills. Since each bucket costs between $13 and $25, it will only ever be profitable if you limit yourself to one.

I am not a fan of generic quick-service restaurants.

One of my favorite aspects of visiting Disney World is sampling the various cuisine options. I frequent my favorite quick-service and specialized restaurants, frequent the festival food kiosks at Epcot, and keep a look out for new seasonal options.

However, I always try to avoid foods that are available outside of Disney, such as Caesar salad, chicken nuggets, pizza, and simple cheeseburgers.

Spirit jerseys are absurdly costly
Typically, spirit jerseys cost around $90.

Kayleigh Cost

Years ago, when Disney first began producing spirit jerseys, I was the biggest admirer. However, I find myself avoiding them recently.

Long sleeve T-shirts have virtually doubled in price over the years, and I simply cannot justify spending more than $80 on one.

I like to purchase other Disney goods.

If you frequently visit the parks, I do not believe it is worthwhile to get Lightning Lane passes.

As a local of Orlando, I cannot rationalize purchasing a Lighting Lane pass to avoid attraction queues.

It will cost roughly $16 per person per day if you purchase Genie+ (which usually gets you a few Lightning Lane passes a day). Or, you can purchase à la carte Lightning Lane passes for a limited number of rides for between $7 and $17 per person each day.

I’ve been on all the rides numerous times, so I can always return if there is a lengthy line.

I believe Lighting Lane is only worthwhile for those who are unable to visit the parks frequently and wish to experience every attraction.

I don’t understand why folks prefer Disney-themed Crocs.
I’ve never been a fan of Disney’s Croc patterns.

Kayleigh Cost

I’ve never been a fan of the various Crocs versions that Disney produces.

Additionally, I dislike the shoes in general. I’d rather spend my money on a variety of Disney products.

I bring my own umbrella or poncho to the park to avoid purchasing rain gear there.

If you’ve been to Disney World, you’re aware that a typical day includes a rainstorm.

As someone who has been visiting parks since before they taught me to walk, I always pack rain protection. This saves me from having to purchase a Disney poncho or umbrella, which may cost between $12 and $40.

The Mickey balloons are adorable but not very practical.
Disney World even has seasonal balloons for sale.

Even though many of the Disney balloons are gorgeous, I never purchase them.

They are impractical, fairly pricey at $14, and must be carried all day.

Numerous structures and attractions on the property prohibit balloons from entering, making it quite difficult to dispose of them.

Outside of the parks, misting fans may be purchased for much less.

Disney World can become very hot, especially in the summer. But if I anticipate extreme heat, I always pack my own misting fan.

I can often locate a working one for far less money on Amazon or at Walmart than the $22 version in Disney parks. As an alternative to the larger fans that Disney sells, I prefer purchasing a backpack-friendly, compact fan.

There are significantly more interesting snacks than packaged candy and popcorn.
There are more delicious goodies in the park.

Kayleigh Cost

I’ve tried the various packaged sweets and popcorn from Disney gift stores numerous times, and they’re never worthwhile.

I like fresh popcorn or a dessert made to order when visiting amusement parks.