What food and medication can I bring into Disney World?
When you’re on vacation at Walt Disney World, you’ll want to have what you need so you can feel comfortable. If you have medication that you need with you at all times, or perhaps you have special dietary needs, you’ll need to know what you’re able bring into the parks. Thankfully, Disney is very accommodating, making it pretty easy for guests to bring what they need with them.
By Dani Dennison Meyering
What food can I bring into Disney World?
The great news is you can bring your own food into Disney property, including the theme parks and water parks. This can be helpful for saving money, and for dietary restrictions. However, the food you bring in must be for self-consumption only, and it cannot require any heating or other special preparation.
Disney does a great job of working with guests on their individual dietary needs, and generally receives high marks for being able to accommodate practically any specific needs there may be at any of their dining locations. So there’s no need to feel like you have to bring your own food to be able to fit whatever needs you have; just know that bringing your own food is permitted.
No alcohol or glass is permitted. And Disney’s official guidelines state that food that has a strong, pungent order is not permitted. This seems a little subjective, so guests should use their best judgement.
It is very important to note that large coolers are not permitted. Suitcases, bags, coolers or backpacks—with or without wheels—larger than 24 inches long by 15 inches wide by 18 inches high (61 centimeters x 38 centimeters x 46 centimeters) are not permitted at the Disney theme parks, water parks, or the NBA Experience (when in operation). Additionally, loose ice is not permitted; you will need to utilize reusable ice packs. Cups of ice are available at all food and beverage locations at no charge.
What medication can I bring into Disney World?
Disney now uses electronic scanning machines to check bags and other items for prohibited items. Any guest is subject to additional screening if needed. Most medical devices would not be a cause for additional screening, but it is possible that additional screening can be conducted.
Disney’s website does not have any specific guidelines regarding over-the-counter or prescription medication. Generally any medication that is clearly marked as prescribed with a guest’s name is permitted so long as it is not in a glass container. Medication that is considered to be a controlled substance may require document prescriptions and could be subject to screening.
Important life-saving medication, like EpiPens, antihistamines and asthma medication, can be brought into Disney property, including the theme parks. Currently, substances that contain CBD or other similar substances are not permitted at Walt Disney World.
Tips for bringing your own food or medication to Walt Disney World
Besides being familiar with Disney’s official guidelines, you’ll want to plan ahead to make your trip as smooth as possible. Make sure any food or medication that you are bringing is easy to get to if additional screening if needed.
Having food in clear containers will help, but keep in mind that glass is not allowed. Keeping medications in their own clear zipped bag will help if you need to pull them out for additional screening.
If you need any over-the-counter medications or first aid treatment, each of Walt Disney World’s theme park has their own first-aid station located near the center of the park. It’s free for park guests and they can help with many basic medical needs. After all, you should be comfortable in the Most Magical Place on Earth.
If you have any questions about your specific medical needs please contact Walt Disney World’s Disability Services at (407) 560-2547 or email [email protected].
