One of the BEST pieces of Universal Orlando advice I ever got was to get the refillable soda mug.

Universal

Unlimited soda refills? Coca-Cola Freestyle machines? Delicious unique beverages? Seriously, the perks of Universal’s system are SO MUCH BETTER than Disney’s. But if you’ve never tried the refillable mugs at either resort, we’re breaking down the differences between Disney World’s refillable mug options and Universal Orlando’s.

Disney World’s Refillable Mugs

Starting things out at Disney World, the most common place to get a refillable mug is at your resort hotel. Every resort on property sells them, and if you get the Disney Dining Plan added to your vacation package, each person with the Dining Plan will get a refillable mug included for the length of your stay.

Disney Refillable Mugs

But here’s the kicker — these mugs can ONLY be refilled at your resort. You can’t take these into the parks and get free soda refills throughout the day like you can at your hotel. And sometimes, the soda fountains at your resort will have limited hours, like if they’re located inside a food court.

Refillable mug and drink Station at Drop Off Pool Bar at Disney’s Pop Century

Disney World doesn’t offer a refillable mug option in the theme parks, however, there IS typically a refillable mug you can buy exclusively for your day at the water parks. These can be very helpful for a day when you’re spending a lot of time in the sun.

Water Park Refillable Mug

If you decide to get the refillable mug for your resort, you’ll be paying $22.99 for a hotel stay of up to 14 days. (That is, unless you get it included with the Dining Plan.) If you refill the mug in the mornings and evenings and you’re staying for a few days, you can definitely get your money’s worth. However, it’s still not quite as nice as Universal Orlando’s system.

Universal Orlando Refillable Mugs

Over at Universal Orlando, you can purchase refillable mugs that can be used at all four parks (including Volcano Bay and the new Epic Universe). Purchasing one of these cups will cost you $17.99 plus tax, while purchasing multiple at a time will give you a discount on each (if you buy two, they’re $15.99 plus tax each, and if you purchase 3-6 they’re $13.99 each plus tax).

Fill up at Freestyle machines

These cups can be refilled at Coca-Cola Freestyle machines all around the park — found at many snack stands and at several quick service restaurants. And even if you don’t see a Freestyle machine, you can often get a refill at any snack stand with a regular soda fountain. After your first day of use is over, you can reactivate your souvenir cup for $10.99 on a future visit (I’ve personally had one for YEARS that I keep reactivating each visit!).

My ol’ reliable refillable mug!

Universal also has a few other refillable cup/souvenir cup options, including a classic cup that you can pay to refill each time, but the Coca-Cola Freestyle mug reigns supreme, in my opinion. And at the new park, Epic Universe, you can even try unique novelty sodas in Celestial Park, Dark Universe, and Isle of Berk.

Freestyle Machines

So ultimately, I believe that the Universal Orlando program is a much better deal than Disney’s! I love that I’ve been able to use my same mug for years and possibly save hundreds on sodas at this point. It’s a great way to stay hydrated while in the parks, which is extra valuable in the summer.

And if you’re heading to Universal’s NEW park Epic Universe soon, make sure to check out our video below for the list of best eats!

Click Here to Learn More About Disney’s Refillable Mug Rules!

Have you ever used a refillable mug in Disney World or Universal Orlando? Tell us in the comments!