Can you believe it’s already halfway through November? The leaves are turning, temperatures are dropping and wallets are shrinking. The holidays are here, and for many that means shopping. If you’re traveling to Walt Disney World, here are a few tips to ponder before tackling the gift shops in search of that perfect present.

Discounts

While Disney prices are definitely higher than your average shop, discounts are offered here and there that can cut your bill a bit. Annual Passholders are eligible for a 10% discount at Disney owned and operated shops. Be sure to have your physical discount card on you, as most passes are now on Magic Bands. Disney Vacation Club members, with proper ID, are eligible for discounts at select locations on property. Disney Visa Card members may receive a discount when making a purchase with their Disney Visa. Minimum purchases tend to apply with the Visa discount.

Additionally, we’ve sporadically seen discount coupons offered at quick service locations. Keep an eye on your receipts! We’ve taken advantage of a 20% discount several times as a result of these random (or seemingly random) offers. Typically, users may use the discount at the flagship gift shop in each park and Downtown Disney (i.e., The Emporium, MouseGears, etc.) prior to 12:00 P.M.

Get Park Wise: When in doubt, ask! Some non-Disney shops offer discounts to passholders and Disney Vacation Club members, as well!

Delivery

Did you find the perfect gift just before your Mine Train FastPass time? Not thrilled with the idea of jamming a snow globe or gigantic Mickey Mouse between your feet in the cart? If you’re a Disney resort guest, you’re in luck! If you’re more than one day from checkout, your package will be delivered to your resort gift shop (or your room if you’re staying club), and you can romp through the parks with free hands. If you’re not staying on property or checking out sooner, your package will be delivered to the front of the park for pick up on your way out.

Or maybe you opted for a Cinderella Castle toy, and there’s no way that sucker’s fitting in your luggage. Again, you’re covered. Disney offers shipping direct from the World to your (or anyone’s!) front door. Shipping charges, of course, will apply.

Get Park Wise: As Disney notes in most shops, snow globes may not be carried onto your flight. These must be packed in checked luggage or shipped.

Details

Here are a few more details to keep in mind when shopping at Walt Disney World:

If you have car access, consider heading out to the outlets. If you’re in the market for holiday-specific merchandise, you can usually find a few options at the Character Warehouses for a fraction of the park prices. I’ve picked up Christmas ornaments similar or once even identical to one I had my eye on at Magic Kingdom for $1.99!

If you’re thinking about an item, keep in mind that some items may only be found at one gift shop. General “Walt Disney World” themed items, as well as general Disney items can be found throughout the property, but ride-, resort- and land-specific merchandise is typically limited. If a Tower of Terror tee has caught your eye and you’re not planning a return stay at the Hollywood Tower Hotel this trip, pick it up while you’re there.

Returns are accepted on most items with the accompanying receipt. If an item is defective or breaks, the shops will typically return or exchange the item with no questions asked. If you’ve returned home and experience an issue, call the number on your receipt, as it leads to their merchandise hotline. I’ve personally received great service through this department, so don’t hesitate to make contact even if you think you’re out of luck since you’re no longer on property.

Share your favorite Disney shopping tips with your fellow MiceChatters below!

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