Hi Kathryn and welcome back to planDisney. As one of the current UK panellists, it will be my absolute pleasure to assist you with your question.
First of all, how exciting that you've booked a 14-night stay at
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge for next year. If you're anything like me, there is nothing that makes me happier than having a brand new trip to Walt Disney World, to count down the days to!
You're in for a real treat at this stunning, African-inspired, Disney Resort hotel which is home to over 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, kudu and flamingos. Uzima pool is also a fantastic place to recharge your batteries after visiting the theme parks. It's zero-depth entry point, children's wading pool and waterslide are sure to be a hit with your grandson.
Top Tip - Be sure to make an advance dining reservation for dinner at
Sanaa, at the nearby Disney's Animal Kingdom Villa's - Kidani Village, during your stay. It's one of my family's favourite restaurants to dine at when we visit Walt Disney World - the Indian-Style Bread Service is to die for!
Going back to your question, Kathryn, unfortunately, it is not currently possible to purchase
Disney Gift Cards, from here in the UK, which can be used as payment for merchandise etc. once you arrive at Walt Disney World.
In the past, it was possible to purchase gift cards from the UK Disney Stores however, these could only be used in UK Disney Stores and were not valid for use in the Disney Parks or anywhere else. The sale of these was however temporarily paused a good while ago now.
If you are looking for ways to provide your grandson with some spending money of his own, to use during your stay, perhaps, you could consider using a prepaid travel card or, getting some money changed into US dollars for him. I have done this for my children in the past and then ordered some nice, personalised, Disney-themed money wallets from Etsy, to put the US dollars in.
Another option would be to wait until you arrive at Walt Disney World where you will be able to purchase a Disney Gift Card for your grandson to use, during your stay. Disney Gift Cards are sold throughout the theme parks and Disney Resorts hotels including
Zawadi Marketplace at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.
I hope that this has answered your question, Kathryn. Please feel free to re-visit us, here at planDisney, if we can be of any further help with the planning of your 2026 trip.
Wishing you a magical holiday filled with memories which will last a lifetime!
Emma