Hi Niki,
You are absolutely welcome to bring food and drinks into the
Walt Disney World theme parks. Packing some of your food for a day in the parks is a great way to save money and to have snacks and lunch readily available. There are just a
few restrictions: no outside alcohol is allowed and you should avoid glass containers except for baby food. All bags are subject to search when you enter.
You can pack your food in a small cooler or in a backpack or tote. I also like to bring my own water bottle to stay hydrated. It can be refilled at water fountains or -- my top way -- by asking for a free cup of ice water at any counter service location.
When my kids were in strollers, I would tuck a small cooler into the storage basket underneath. If you don't have a stroller or don't have room there, you can also put your lunch in a
rental locker (which are located at the front of each park) until you want it. Or you can carry it with you.
I've seen families unpack simple meals -- a loaf of bread, a big bag of chips and a jar of peanut butter -- and elaborate meals -- hot dishes of homemade food, complete with dessert. I usually pack snacks such as protein bars, fruit or nuts rather than a full meal.
I hope that's useful, Niki. Thanks for asking the Disney Parks Moms Panel your question. Please let us know if there's anything else we can do to help as you make your plans. Enjoy!
Wilma