Bringing your own snacks into Disney parks is allowed, but there are some rules and restrictions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about bringing food and drinks into Disneyland and Disney World, including what’s allowed, what’s prohibited, and tips for sneaking in snacks.
What Foods and Drinks Can I Bring Into Disney Parks?
You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into Disney parks. This includes things like:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Chips, pretzels, crackers
- Granola bars, protein bars
- Nuts, trail mix
- Cookies, candy
- Sandwiches, wraps
- Water bottles
- Juice boxes
Essentially, you can bring any shelf-stable foods and snacks that don’t require heating or cooling. You can also bring baby food, formula, and milk for infants. Just make sure your snacks are properly sealed and packaged.
What Foods and Drinks Are Prohibited?
While Disney parks allow outside food, there are some restrictions on what you can bring in. Prohibited items include:
- Alcohol and cannabis products
- Glass containers
- Cans or large Coolers/ice chests
- Food that requires heating up
- Food that could be messy like soup
- Anything that could be used as a weapon
Disney also doesn’t allow you to bring in large quantities of outside food that could be considered a full meal. You can bring snacks, not buffet spreads. And you can’t have food delivered to the parks.
Tips for Sneaking Snacks Into Disney Parks
While Disney allows outside snacks, park rules do restrict quantities and container sizes. Here are some useful tips for sneaking extra snacks past security:
- Use snack size ziploc bags instead of bulk packages.
- Hide snacks in the bottom of stroller bags or diaper bags.
- Put snacks in jacket pockets or cargo shorts.
- Use Disney snack bags from previous trips.
- Mix in outside snacks with purchased Disney snacks.
- Have different family members carry a few snacks each.
As long as you aren’t obvious about it or bring in excessive amounts, using these sneaking strategies can help you save money on snacks inside the parks.
Where Can I Eat My Own Snacks in Disney Parks?
Disney doesn’t allow guests to eat outside food while waiting in line for rides or during shows. But there are designated snack areas throughout the parks where you can eat your home snacks. These include:
- Designated picnic areas
- Benches
- Food courts
- Theme park lobbies
- Areas near restrooms
You can also eat snacks while walking around the park. Just be mindful of other guests and clean up any mess. Avoid eating near restaurants, food carts, or trash-free “lands” like Tomorrowland.
Buying Snacks Inside Disney Parks
Bringing your own snacks can save money, but you’ll still want to treat yourself to iconic Disney snacks inside the park! Some must-try snacks include:
| Snack Item | Park Locations |
|---|---|
| Churros | Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios |
| Dole Whip | Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom |
| Mickey Ice Cream Bars | All parks |
| Beignets | Port Orleans French Quarter |
| Turkey legs | Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios |
Disney also offers snacks like popcorn, pretzels, ice cream novelties, and unique treats like cronuts and whoopie pies. You can easily share a few purchased snacks alongside your home snacks.
Is Bringing Snacks Worth It?
Here are some pros and cons of bringing your own snacks into Disney parks:
Pros:
- Saves money compared to buying snacks in the park
- Can bring kid-approved snacks and allergy-friendly foods
- Don’t have to carry purchases around all day
- Healthier options
- Can take snacks on rides
Cons:
- Need to plan ahead and prep snacks
- Have to carry snacks around the park
- Can’t eat snacks in some areas
- Miss out on iconic Disney treats
- Possibility snacks may be confiscated
Overall, bringing your own snacks into Disney can provide convenience and cost-savings for families. Just be discreet, follow the rules, and also indulge in magical Disney snacks during your visit.
Conclusion
Disney parks do allow guests to bring their own food and drinks, within reason. You can bring shelf-stable snacks like fruits, vegetables, chips, protein bars, sandwiches and more. But you can’t bring alcohol, glass containers or full meals. If you want to sneak in extra snacks, hide them well in bags and jacket pockets. While home snacks can save money, Disney’s unique treats are part of the magic, so enjoy both!
