Disney Adds New Entry Measure for All Babies Entering Theme Parks

When you picture a day at Disney—magic-filled rides, joyful music, and playful characters—you probably don’t think of contraband hidden behind babies in strollers. Yet one Reddit post recently put a spotlight on exactly that scenario:

“Alright, which one of you tried to sneak contraband in behind your baby? … Hiding weapons/drugs/or other banned items behind your baby to sneak in to a theme park is peak low life behavior.”

Yes, it’s as disturbing as it sounds. The user wasn’t criticizing Disney’s extra stroller searches, but rather the reasons behind them—because apparently, some individuals have stooped to hiding prohibited items in stroller compartments or even under a strapped-in child.

In response, commenters rattled off additional eyebrow-raising attempts:

“Security person told us once people try to smuggle in their small dogs as well.”

“I once heard about someone tying their puppy to one of the plastic park strollers and leaving it in town square in full sunlight while they waited to meet Mickey. People can be awful.”

“When I did guest screening overtime shifts… I used to tell kids we were looking for alligators. They like to sneak inside the parks in bags and purses.”

These anecdotes underscore a harsh reality: contraband isn’t just a theoretical concern—it’s part of why Disneyland and Walt Disney World have tightened stroller screening protocols.

What Disney Actually Prohibits: A Deep Dive into the Rules

Disney Parks have clear, comprehensive lists of what’s not allowed, enforced via guest screening at park entrances. Some highlights:

• No pets (outside of trained service animals; kennels are available)

• No wagons, stroller wagons, or any trailer-like attachments

• Weapons—including toy or replica weapons, pepper spray, and self-defense items

• Alcohol and any illegal substances, including marijuana, are banned.

• Glass containers are prohibited unless they contain baby food, medication, or small perfume bottles under 4 oz.

• Disruptive items such as air horns, laser pointers, or megaphones are not allowed.

• Folding chairs, large tripods, selfie sticks, drones, sports equipment, wrapped gifts, cremated remains, and more all fall under the prohibited category.

Bags, strollers (including underneath), coolers, and more are subject to inspection—even diaper bags and stroller contents are fair game under Disney’s screening rules.

Real Guest Experiences with Stroller Checks

Some Disney visitors report increased stroller scrutiny:

“They have made us remove the diaper bag under the stroller and remove the kiddo since last year.”

“We went at the beginning of 2024 with a 1.5‑year‑old and a 4‑year‑old—they made us take both out of the stroller.”

“We had to take our son out of the stroller and carry him through the scanner 4/5 days of our August trip…”

These changes don’t seem tied to child age, but rather stem from genuine concern about hidden items being smuggled under strollers. As one commenter put it, “Last year… didn’t have to get out… it wouldn’t surprise me if people try to sneak things in via their kids. People are gross.”

Another account reveals how many visitors suddenly face extra bag checks:

“We were there for 10 days … Not a single stop from security … Until the last two days when we went to MK. I got stopped 5 times. No one else cared, lol.”

Stroller Security and Theft: Additional Concerns

Beyond smuggling, stroller theft and misplaced items are real concerns:

“Never got our stroller stolen but I did have someone try to take a lightsaber that I left in it and pushed off to the side to get a drink.”

“We just had a pin stolen off our stroller… an Olaf bubble wand stolen off our stroller.”

Park guests advise tagging strollers with visible cues or using AirTags so they’re not confused or moved:

“I do slip a Tile tracker in the stroller … I usually tie a brightly colored cooling towel around the handle.”

These precautions aren’t overkill in a bustling crowd.

Why These Measures Are Necessary

Disney’s stroller screening—though inconvenient—serves a critical safety function:

1. Combatting contraband smuggling via hidden compartments under children.

2. Deterring misuse of stroller wagons or oversized devices that create hazards.

3. Preventing theft and confusion that disrupt guest experiences.

Indeed, without such safeguards, parks would likely decline into chaos. Tactical searches, odd as they may feel, keep the experience safe and enjoyable for the majority of guests.

Tips for a Smoother Stroller Experience at Disney

To breeze through entry and minimize disruption:

• Use standard-sized strollers, no wagons or oversized attachments.

• Pack minimally in diaper compartments or stroller undercarriages—especially avoid items like glass containers, unsupported coolers, or suspicious items.

• Place valuables like wallet, keys, phone in a fanny pack or on your person, not the stroller .

• Mark your stroller with identifiable items—a bright ribbon, AirTag, or distinctive handle wrap helps.

• Expect potential diaper/stroller inspection, and have your child ready to be carried through security if requested.

That Reddit post about hidden contraband isn’t just a wild anecdote—it’s the straw that broke the security team’s back. These policies and checks are reactions to actual incidents. They’re not a punishment for responsible families, but a safeguard against those exploiting the system.

By understanding and respecting the rules—especially around strollers—you’ll help keep Disney a safe, smooth, and magical place for everyone.

Let me know if you’d like a stroller-accessory checklist or tips for stroller rental options next time you visit!