Looking to save a little money during your resort stay? Refillable resort mugs might be the answer. From grabbing a drink with your meals, to soda by the pool, to a quick refreshment before heading out to the parks, these mugs can be a convenient (and sometimes valuable) addition to your vacation. Let’s take a closer look at how they work — and whether they’re worth it for your family.
Disney Resort Refillable Mugs
Disney Resort refillable mugs can be a solid value for many families. They currently range around $23 (subject to change) and are active for up to two weeks, which covers most vacation stays. They are available at every Walt Disney World Resort owned and operated resort, and pricing is consistent across property.
Refill stations vary slightly depending on the resort layout. If the resort has a food court, you’ll typically find the refill stations located there. For example, at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, stations are located inside Everything Pop — which serves as both the merchandise location and the main food court.
At Deluxe resorts without a large food court, refill stations are usually located inside the marketplace quick-service area. A good example is the Beach Club Marketplace at Disney’s Beach Club Resort.
Most resorts also have refill stations located near the main pool area, making it easy to grab a drink while relaxing in the sun. They’re typically just steps away from the fun.
One important thing to remember: Disney Resort refillable mugs are not usable inside the theme parks. You’re welcome to fill them before you leave the resort and carry them with you during the day, but you will not be able to refill them inside the parks. They are strictly a resort-only amenity.
Universal Orlando Resort Refillable Mugs
Universal Resort refillable mugs are also available when staying at an official Universal Orlando Resort hotel. They are priced a bit differently than Disney’s version. Instead of one flat activation period, Universal mugs are priced by the number of days you choose, starting at a two-day minimum. Pricing can vary, so it’s always best to check directly with the resort upon arrival for current details.
Like Disney, these mugs are valid for use at your resort’s refill stations. However, Universal’s resort mugs do have a fun upgrade over their counterparts — each hotel features its own unique design. For example, the mugs at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort are a personal favorite. They reflect the resort’s modern mid-century aesthetic and the designs often change seasonally, which makes them a fun souvenir as well.
Another added perk: Universal Resort mugs include unlimited ICEEs, which can be a real treat — especially on a hot summer day.
Refill stations are conveniently located inside the resort food courts and near pool areas, making it easy to grab a drink throughout the day while enjoying the resort.
Keep in mind that Universal also offers a separate Coca-Cola Freestyle mug for use inside the theme parks. These park mugs are completely separate from the resort refillable mugs and are not interchangeable. If you would like unlimited refills inside the parks, you will need to purchase the Freestyle park mug in addition to — not instead of — the resort version.
Final Thoughts
Refillable resort mugs can absolutely be a great value — but like most things on a theme park vacation, it depends on how your family tours and relaxes. If you plan to spend time at the resort, enjoy pool breaks, or typically grab soda or coffee throughout the day, they can pay for themselves pretty quickly.
However, if you’re heading to the parks from open to close and spending very little time at the resort, you may find you don’t use them enough to justify the cost.
It really comes down to your vacation style.
And for families who mainly want bottled water, sports drinks, juice boxes, or coffee waiting in the room, grocery delivery can sometimes be the more practical and cost-effective option — especially for shorter stays.
As always, a little planning ahead can save both money and frustration during your trip.
Planning a trip and not sure what makes the most sense for your family? Feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to help.
