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Don’t Pop It! The Trick to Flying Home WITH a Disney Balloon

Left side: Close-up of colorful Mickey Mouse balloons with a red Mickey balloon inside a transparent one. "Walt Disney World" and Mickey's face are printed on it. Right side: Airplane painted blue with Disney designs, including Mickey Mouse, near an airport runway — it's like flying with a Disney balloon.
Credit: Disney Tips

Walt Disney once said, “Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.” But if there’s one more thing that can keep the magic alive long after your visit, it’s a colorful Disney balloon floating above your head as you stroll down Main Street, U.S.A.

Whether you’re young or young at heart, these iconic balloons bring joy to everyone. But what happens when it’s time to head home? Fear not, fellow Disney lovers! We’ve got the ultimate tip for preserving your Disney balloon after your magical vacation.

The Disney Balloon Experience

disneyland entrance balloons

Credit: Disney

There’s something truly enchanting about Disney balloons. From the classic Mickey-shaped balloons to specialty designs that change with the seasons, these helium-filled wonders are a must-have souvenir for many guests. It’s nearly impossible to walk through the parks without spotting a cast member holding a bouquet of vibrant balloons, each one a floating piece of Disney magic.

Currently, Disney balloon prices range between $13 and $17, depending on the type and size you choose. They’re known for their durability, often lasting several days. These balloons are more than just a pretty face—they’re a piece of the magic you can take home, but only if you know the secret trick to keeping them safe for the journey!

What to Do with Your Balloon at the End of Your Trip?

As your unforgettable Disney vacation comes to a close, you might be wondering how to bring your balloon back home without it losing its magic. After all, no one wants to pop their balloon after all the joy it’s brought! Unfortunately, the Orlando International Airport (MCO) has a strict policy against taking inflated balloons on planes. So what’s a Disney fan to do?

For years, many of us have simply accepted that our beloved balloons wouldn’t survive the trip home. We either left them behind or popped them, a heartbreaking end to such a magical keepsake. But those days are over because there’s a simple trick that will let you take your balloon home and relive the Disney magic whenever you want!

Secret Tip: Deflate, Don’t Pop!

Disney Balloon

Credit: Disney

Here’s the insider tip that will change the way you handle your Disney balloons forever: Don’t pop your balloon—deflate it instead!

Before you head to the airport, make sure to stop by the Disney Store located inside the Orlando International Airport. Yes, even at the airport, Disney magic is still within reach! Here, you’ll find helpful cast members who are ready to assist you with a smile. Simply ask one of them to deflate your balloon, and they’ll do it for you with expert care.

By deflating the balloon, you can safely pack it in your luggage or carry-on, ensuring that it won’t take up too much space or get damaged during your travels. Once you’re back home, you can refill your balloon with helium at any party store or with a home helium tank, bringing it back to life as if you were still walking through the parks!

Why Deflating Your Balloon is the Best Option

A cluster of colorful balloons featuring Minnie Mouse with a red bow, Mickey Mouse, and translucent balloons shaped like Mickey's head. The scene is outdoors, with a pink building and lamp post in the background.

Credit: Disney

You might be wondering why deflating your balloon is the superior choice compared to simply leaving it behind. Here are a few reasons why this method is a game-changer for Disney fans:

Preserve the Magic: Deflating your balloon allows you to keep a tangible piece of your Disney experience. Every time you see it floating in your home, you’ll be reminded of the magical memories you made at the parks.

Eco-Friendly Option: By deflating and reusing your balloon, you’re making a more environmentally friendly choice. Instead of popping it and contributing to landfill waste, you’re extending the life of your balloon.

Easy to Reinflate: Once you’re home, refilling your balloon is a breeze! You can take it to a local party store or use a helium tank to bring it back to its full glory. Some stores might even do it for free if you’ve made a purchase.

Lasting Souvenir: Balloons are a unique and whimsical keepsake that many Disney fans cherish. Deflating it ensures you can enjoy it for years to come, making it a lasting memento of your trip.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preserving Your Disney Balloon

A cluster of colorful balloons floats against a bright, sunny sky. The balloons are inside clear outer balloons with vibrant designs, including flowers, butterflies, and cartoon faces, creating a whimsical and joyful scene. In the background, you can slightly see trees as a dad refuses to take his daughter to Disney.

Credit: Disney

To make sure you get the most out of your Disney balloon, follow this simple step-by-step guide:

Enjoy Your Balloon at the Parks: Take in all the joy and magic your balloon brings as you explore Walt Disney World. Whether it’s bouncing along as you walk down Main Street, U.S.A., or floating above your stroller, make the most of your time with it!

Enjoy Your Balloon at the Parks: Take in all the joy and magic your balloon brings as you explore Walt Disney World. Whether it’s bouncing along as you walk down Main Street, U.S.A., or floating above your stroller, make the most of your time with it!

Pack Your Balloon: Once deflated, your balloon will be easy to pack. You can fold it gently and place it in your luggage or carry-on. Make sure it’s stored in a safe place to avoid any creases or damage.

Reinflate at Home: When you’re back home and ready to relive the magic, take your balloon to a party store for refilling, or use a home helium tank. Watch as it floats up, just like it did at the parks!

Display and Enjoy: Now that your balloon is reinflated, display it in your home, where you can see it daily. It’s a fun way to keep the Disney spirit alive long after your vacation is over.

Bonus Tips for Balloon Lovers

Disney balloons

Credit Brian McGowan on Unsplash

If you’re a true Disney balloon enthusiast, here are a few extra tips to make the most of your balloon experience:

Purchase Multiple Balloons: Consider buying a few different designs during your visit. Deflate and bring them all home so you can rotate them throughout the year or save them for special occasions.

Plan Ahead for Special Events: If you know you’re attending a birthday party or other celebration shortly after your trip, your Disney balloon will make a unique and magical decoration.

Capture the Memories: Take lots of photos with your balloon while you’re still at the parks. These photos will be cherished memories, especially if you plan to keep the balloon for a long time.

Keep the Magic Alive

With this simple tip, you can extend the life of your Disney balloon and keep a piece of the magic with you long after your trip has ended. Instead of saying goodbye to your balloon, say hello to a wonderful souvenir that will bring smiles and Disney joy for years to come.

Remember, the next time you’re at Walt Disney World, don’t just think of your balloon as a temporary treat—consider it a lasting piece of the magic that you can bring home. Happy travels, and may your Disney memories float on forever!

Ready to bring your Disney balloon home and keep the magic alive? Follow these tips and share your balloon adventures with us!

About Jamie Sylvester

I'm a Disney nerd! A kid at heart who loves the magic and memories of Walt Disney World. I follow all things Disney and enjoy the vacations, day trips, and weekend getaways, and geek out over the planning of such events. My goal is to experience as many Disney desserts and cocktails as possible! Married to another Disney nerd and blessed with a daughter and son, we thoroughly enjoy the magic at Disney and are here to help others experience the magic as well.