Question: Can I bring my own food and drink into Walt Disney World?
Answer: Yes. Though bag searches at the parks have been beefed up over the last year, if there’s one thing Disney security remains soft on, it’s their outside food and beverage policy. So whether you’re trying to shave a bit off of your budget, supplement your dining plan, feed your little ones on the go, stay hydrated or cater to dietary restrictions, visitors are allowed to bring along a stash of tasty treats to get them through their Disney days.
There aren’t any real restrictions on food or beverages allowed into the parks except for alcohol or glass containers with are both prohibited. Families with small children are however allowed to bring in small jars of baby food. For those wanting to keep their food and drink cold in the Florida heat, coolers are also allowed into the parks but cannot be any bigger than 24 by 15 by 18 inches. This is the same size as the largest lockers you can rent at Walt Disney World, ensuring that those visitors who don’t feel like lugging their food and drink around with them all day have a place to stash their goodies for later.
The only notable exception to the cooler policy is Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. For the same reason you won’t find any plastic straws, lids or balloons on site, Disney takes the protection of its animals very seriously. Because of this, coolers are a no-no. Visitors should instead use soft-shelled bags like backpacks or diaper bags. Exceptions will be made for those with special medical needs in which case the coolers will either need to be placed in a locker or held by Guest Services. Juice boxes with plastic straws and wrappers are also not permissible and may be confiscated for the potential risk they pose to the animals.
With such an open policy, guests can feel comfortable eating their own food with pride. Whether it’s a picnic lunch, a quick snack to tide you over or a bottled water that will save you having to pay big bucks at the theme parks, bringing your own food to the parks is definitely one quick and easy way to save money on the essentials so you can spend it on your favorite souvenirs instead. However please note that microwaves are not available to guests nor are Cast Members allowed to nuke your food, so leave the TV dinners at home.
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