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Tricks are for kids, but balloons are for everyone!
One of the cutest souvenirs you can buy in the parks is a balloon with your favorite character’s face on it. The best part is these aren’t just for kids.
But since they’re quite large, they can be a little difficult to maintain, especially throughout the parks. We’ve outlined 10 ways to keep your balloon safe amongst shows, rides, and character meet-and-greets!
10 Tips to Keep Your Disney World Balloon Safe
Here are the best tips we’ve found to keep your balloon safe during park days in Disney World.
1. Tie It to Your Stroller
The best way to keep our balloons safe is to tie them securely to your stroller. This ensures the balloon stays put while you enjoy attractions, shows, or dining experiences. It’s also a really helpful way to locate your stroller in the sea of parked strollers!
2. Have Disney Deflate It Before Leaving
When you’re ready to head home from your Disney trip, stop by the Disney Store at the Orlando International Airport. They can professionally deflate your Mickey balloon so it stays intact and can travel safely with you, even on a plane. While Disney doesn’t guarantee re-inflation, it’s a great option to keep your balloon as a souvenir.
3. Be Aware of Balloon Restrictions
Keep in mind that balloons are not allowed at all in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Lodge, or the water parks for the safety of the animals and other guests. If you accidentally bring a balloon to these locations, you’ll have to surrender it to a Cast Member.
4. Consider Gifting Your Balloon
If you don’t want the hassle of traveling home with your balloon, consider gifting it to another child when you check out of your Disney hotel. It will make their day and you won’t have to worry about transporting it.
We left our balloon in the room for the cleaners to take home.
5. Carefully Deflate It Yourself
If you want to bring your balloon home, you can carefully deflate it yourself. Use nail clippers to slowly clip away the tied string until it pops off and allows the balloon to deflate undamaged. Then you can re-inflate it once you’re home.
6. Pack Deflated Balloons in Checked Luggage
Once deflated, pack the balloon in your checked luggage, NOT your carry-on bag. The changes in air pressure could cause balloons to pop or burst in the airplane cabin.
7. Avoid Rides with Balloon in Hand
While your child may want to carry their beloved balloon everywhere, avoid bringing it on rides, especially those with any speed or sharp turns. The balloon could fly out of their hands and become a hazard. Have them leave it with a non-rider or tie it to the stroller.
8. Use Balloons as a Stroller Identifier
Tying distinctive Mickey balloons to your stroller makes it much easier to find in the crowded stroller parking areas. It acts as a great identifier!
9. Keep Balloons Secure During Shows
When attending shows or dining experiences, make sure to loop the balloon string around the stroller handle multiple times so it doesn’t float away when left unattended. For extra security, tie the string in a knot.
10. Bring Your Own Small Balloon
If your child becomes upset without a balloon in their hands, consider bringing your own small non-helium balloon that you can inflate yourself and let them hold onto for comfort, while keeping the larger Mickey balloon safely on the stroller. Just be cautious about bringing it on rides.
Final Thoughts
With these 10 tips in mind, you’re ready for a magical Disney adventure with your balloon in tow. From securely tying it to your stroller to having Disney deflate it for safe travels home, you can ensure that it stays safe throughout your park days. So go ahead, and pick out that perfect Mickey balloon—with a little preparation and care, it will be the perfect addition to your Disney memories.
FAQ
For everything you need to know about keeping your Disney World balloon safe, check out our FAQ section below.
Can I bring my own balloons to Disney World?
No, outside balloons are not permitted in any of the Disney parks or resorts. Only balloons purchased at Disney are allowed on the property.
What happens if my balloon pops or deflates during my trip?
If your balloon pops or deflates while you are still at Disney World, bring the remnants to a balloon vendor or merchandise location. They will usually replace it for free, as long as you have proof of purchase.
Can I take my balloon on Disney transportation like buses and monorails?
Yes, you can bring your balloon on most Disney transportation. However, be courteous to other guests and make sure your balloon doesn’t block walkways or take up too much space. Avoid bringing balloons on crowded transport during peak times.
Are there any activities I should avoid with a balloon?
In addition to rides, avoid bringing balloons to character meet-and-greets. The characters’ costumes could get tangled in the string or the balloon could block the photo. Be mindful in large crowds as well to prevent the balloon from bumping into others.
What if I’m staying at a non-Disney hotel?
If you are not staying at a Disney resort hotel, you will need to deflate and transport the balloon yourself to bring it home. Follow the tips in the article for carefully deflating it and packing it in your luggage.
Can I ship a deflated balloon home instead of packing it?
Yes, you can take your deflated balloon to the hotel gift shop or Disney merchandise location and they can ship it home for you, for an additional fee. This saves you the hassle of packing it in your luggage.
