If you’re planning a trip to Disney World, some items are banned from the parks that you need to make sure not to bring.
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World may be known as “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” but not everything is welcome inside the gates. The parks have a surprisingly long list of banned items. Some you’d probably expect, like weapons or alcohol, and others that might catch you off guard. These rules are in place to keep guests safe and the magic running smoothly, but there’s one particular prohibited item we still see slipping past security almost every single day…
If you’ve been to Walt Disney World lately, you’ve probably spotted them — selfie sticks popping up in lines, midway through crowds, even in front of iconic attractions. But here’s the thing: bringing selfie sticks into the parks is flat-out not allowed. Disney’s official property rules state, “Selfie sticks, hand-held extension poles for cameras or mobile devices, flags, and banners are not allowed in any theme park or water park.”
No Selfie Sticks!
Why such a harsh stance on what seems like a harmless photo tool? For one, safety. A selfie stick mistakenly swung or dropped in a fast-moving ride can seriously injure other park guests or even damage ride mechanisms. Then there’s etiquette: those sticks extend into others’ personal space, block views during shows or parades, and generally add a layer of inconvenience in already crowded areas. Disney knows that even one guest misusing a stick can ruin the experience for many.
Selfie Stick in the Wild
Despite the rules, selfie sticks remain surprisingly common, especially in queues and photo spots. We aren’t sure if enforcement has relaxed over the years, but we have seen them in the parks. We’ve seen them on rides or even during fireworks. Other times, guests may simply not realize the rule exists until a Cast Member asks them to put it away.
Cinderella Castle
Luckily, there are safer, policy-friendly ways to capture your Disney memories. First, use Disney PhotoPass photographers. They’re stationed throughout the parks, and if you purchase MemoryMaker. Even if you don’t, these Cast Members can take photos with your phone if you ask them. If you’re traveling solo, consider using a small tripod that fits in your backpack and doesn’t extend; those are typically allowed. Most importantly, skip the selfie stick. You’ll keep everyone safer and preserve more of that magic for yourself and your fellow guests.
PhotoPass Opportunity
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Selfie sticks should be taken away or the guests should be removed. The parks are way too crowded for this nonsense and it’s a safety issue. I have seen poor guests whacked in the head many times with these things (although not intentionally). Use the darn Photo Pass, and try to be respectful of others.
Selfie sticks are rude
When I saw this headline, I just knew it was going to be about selfie sticks. And I absolutely agree with Disney that selfie sticks should be banned in the parks, especially after my mother almost got poked in the eye with one.
I just saw a woman at HS with one last week.