Entering the Wizarding World is like a dream come true, and the memories made there will most certainly last a lifetime. Inevitably, however, you will want to bring some of that magic back home with you. Of course! No problem….but wait…what about your budget??
That’s OK! You’re reading this article which means that you will arrive prepared. While there will likely be things that catch your eye, you will at least have an idea of how to prioritize your souvenir budget. (Prices listed are current at the time of writing, do not include tax, and are subject to change- prices are to help guide your souvenir budget only)
Well, let’s jump right in, shall we?
Wands ($63-75): Why not start with the most obvious? Wands are not only the epitome of Wizarding World souvenirs, but they are more than just a souvenir. The wands here are truly magical! You will be able to perform spells that may even rival Dumbledore himself…(well, not really, but they’re pretty cool). The best part is that you can bring your wand back on your next trip and use it again. Wands can be found in most shops throughout the resort, but the most magical way to acquire your wand is at Ollivander’s after watching the ceremony! You can read more on wands in <this article>.
Robes ($139 youth and adult sizes): You might be thinking, “when will I wear this again?”…obviously, on your return to Hogwarts! But seriously, I use mine to do photo shoots, make videos, play dress up with my daughter, attend other Potter related events, and (of course) everytime I return to the Wizarding World! These robes are well made, durable material, and have nice deep pockets as well as a wand pocket. They can be a little toasty in the FL heat, but they are great for cooler days/evenings to add just enough warmth. Again, these can be found in most gift shops, but head to Madam Malkins in Diagon Alley for the best experience!
Sweaters and Sweatshirts ($30-110 most expensive being the Quidditch Knit Sweaters): I almost never pack a sweatshirt when I head to Universal! Why? Because I probably need a new sweatshirt…OK, yes, I have a bit of a sweatshirt problem. I LOVE a comfy hoodie. Average pricing is $50-60 for a hoodie. Not only does this souvenir help to remind you of your trip, but you get to use it anytime there’s a chill in the air (hopefully not due the the presence of Dementors). If you’re anything like me, this is a great and useful souvenir option! These are found all over the parks, but some select styles may only be available at certain shops.
Tumblers/Water Bottles ($19-35): AGUAMENTI! Staying hydrated in the parks is your number ONE job! It is so easy to forget to drink water between rides, shows, spell casting, and shopping. Well, grab a souvenir that will remind you of your magical adventures every time you take a sip! If you haven’t noticed, I love a good utility based souvenir! Pro Tip: There are Coca-Cola Freestyle machines throughout the parks and resorts that will allow you to fill any receptacle with plain water! As with sweaters, these are found almost everywhere, but specific styles may only be available in certain locations.
Lanyards/Badge Reels + Pouch($15+$1-10): Another great, useful, and potentially dual purpose item! At Universal, you will want to be able to access your tickets/passes, room key, and Express Passes frequently and conveniently throughout your days on property. Team Members may need to see your ticket other than just at the entrance (think getting on Hogwarts Express and during Early Park entry), your hotel key card also can be used for resort-wide charging as well as a quick way to let Team Members know you qualify for Early Park Admission. Don’t be fishing in your pocket for them, have them ready to go on a lanyard that also shows your Hogwarts Pride!! Also, if you have a job with a badge, these are great to jazz up your work attire. Available at all shops.
Treats in Collectible Packaging ($13-30): Another great way to get more value for your money, if you’re the collectible type! Eat the treat inside and keep the gorgeously designed packaging as part of your Wizarding World display at home. (I cannot be the only one that does this!). Popular treats include: Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans, Cauldron Cakes, Exploding Bon Bons, Peppermint Toads, Skiving Snackboxes, U-No-Poo, and MORE! The best treat selections are found either in Honeydukes in Hogsmeade or Sugar Plums in Diagon Alley, but also check out Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes. Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Botts can be found at most shops. Check out my article on treats!
Ornaments ($15-30): One of the things we love to do is to collect ornaments from various places we have been. Looking at these on the Christmas tree makes that time of year even more magical as we remember how special all of these memories are and how thankful we are to have gotten to experience them. There is a Christmas Shop near the front of Islands of Adventure that will be full of ornaments, but you can find selections at most of the shops.
Cards + Postcards ($7-13) Value ALERT! Some of the least expensive souvenirs you can find AND get an experience from are these! You can find the beautiful Mina Lima Designs cards for about $6.99 with an envelope included or a pack of 10 postcards for $13. Bring stamps (or purchase there) and head to the center of Hogsmeade Village and see the witch or wizard there for a special postmark stamp! Then you can mail your card to yourself for a fun experience when you get home to keep the magic alive! Something else I like to do is to get small frames for these and hang them at home for great Wizarding World decor! For the best selection, check out Dervish and Banges right near the Owl Post in Hogsmeade.
Bonus Wand Hack ($300 – hear me out): If your souvenir budget meets or exceeds the $300 mark, you’ll want this hack! Head to the big Universal Store in City Walk (you can get them other places, but this usually has the best selection and lets you acquire the card without having to enter the parks – best to do on arrival day so you have it ready to go). Go to the register or find a team member and ask about the gift card/wand deal. Now, there’s no guarantee how long this will be a thing, but currently, if you put $300 on a merchandise gift card, you will get a FREE non-interactive wand. This gift card will work on any merchandise (not food) throughout the resort. Now, not only are you going to be able to stick to your souvenir budget, but you also get a bonus souvenir – You’re welcome!
Drumroll please…. Shutterbuttons Photography Session ($89.95 12 scene session with DVD, $35 per print) Another experience and souvenir all in one! Use props onsite or bring your own to create the most magical photo shoot ever. The witch or wizard photographer will guide you through your magical journey that you can relive at home each time you need a little magic in your life. This can also be booked as part of the Harry Potter Exclusive Vacation Package with your chosen time and date. Otherwise, walk up in Diagon Alley to request a return time during your visit.
Surely, there may be other magical items that catch your eye, but only you know which magical items will be of most value to you. Nothing, however, will beat the memories that will be made experiencing the Wizarding World just as you imagined it when you first read the books or watched the movies (it is also OK if you have done neither).
Ready to start making memories to last a lifetime? If you’re already working with a Smart Moms Travel Agent, I know you are being well taken care of! Not working with an agent yet? My wizarding skills are honed, and I would be most honored to help you create magical memories for your family! Universal pays for my services and includes that cost in their pricing. That means I can help you for FREE!! Let’s get your magical vacation booked! Start by filling out this form.
