A Disney vacation is one that is on every family’s bucket list travel board. We find ourselves looking at the planning guides and dreaming of that magical location year after year. Though for many, the thought of Walt Disney World means spending a lot of money. In fact, some would say it is one of the most expensive vacations they will ever take. Here is what we say, “Think again!”
With a few smart preparations tips, money-wise tactics, and out of the box strategies you can save a bundle and still enjoy a fabulous Disney vacation.
Hotels and Accommodations
Visiting Walt Disney World during the hot months of the year and the colder months can mean smaller crowds and that often equals savings as the demand is lower. Generally speaking, after the first week of September to early-October and between the end of January to the beginning of May.
This is when hotels have rooms available and may offer them at a lower rate. You can save even more when ebooking to compare and locate the best location and property that fits your budget and desired amenities. Additionally, if you can visit during the week (Monday thru Thursday), rather than the weekend you can save money on a nightly rate too. You will also see less traffic and smaller lines at the theme park. It’s a win, win for sure.
Finally, look at hotels and resorts that are off the Disney property but not too far away to save money. Many top quality hotels surround the theme park and they provide shuttle service to and from the park. You can save a bundle staying off site and have a delightful vacation.
Meals and Dining
Meals and snacks can add up quickly at the theme park. Be money smart by visiting the supermarket before you get to your hotel to stock up on drinks, snacks, and quick eats like sandwich making supplies. Then when getting ready to head to the park, pack a cooler with snacks, fruit, water, and even things to drink. You are allowed to exit and reenter Disney on the same day making this tip one that can especially save big bucks on food costs.
You might look for a hotel that offers a free breakfast to save money on eating out. This is something we do every time we are traveling. Not only will it save you the cost of a morning meal, it will also save you time.
For those that want the full Disney experience, be sure to consider checking out the Disney Dining Plan. It’s a fixed-price meal plan that’s available for all guests. You purchase a package of meal tickets that good for one meal at a Disney restaurant in a variety of locations. This means that the menu price doesn’t matter and you can save up to 30% of your dining expenses on site.
Travel, Tickets, and Extras
There are any number of opportunities to spend money at Walt Disney World. You can stock up on souvenirs outside the park to save money. There seems to be a Disney themed store every few blocks in the Orlando area. For those of us like myself that love that authentic merchandise, make a rule: one souvenir per person. Set a price limit and ensure that everyone sticks to the budget or pull all the funds together for something truly special, like a custom lightsaber!
You can spend money on extra ticket items like a night at the movies at the Disney village, Disney’s newest front of the line feature, Genie, and more. While those things are not necessary, they maybe something you really want to add. Budget the extras in advance so that there are no surprises. But before you start booking, do your research on all the freebies actually available at Walt Disney World. Be sure to experience and enjoy the myriad of Disney World events and free Disney activities like the nightly fireworks.
Looking to visit Disney World more than one day? You can save money by purchasing a multi-day pass which allows you to get into all of the parks on one pass. In fact, we always suggest visiting three days if possible. There is so much to see and leaving feeling like you missed out is something we never want to see.
For those only visiting Disney World on your vacation, we say skip the car rental. In addition to offsite hotels offering free shuttles to the park, many hotels will pick you up at the airport for free. You can also use the free Disney transportation from one park location to the next in the Disney family when using multi-park passes.
You see, Walt Disney World doesn’t have to break the bank. You can enjoy a fabulous vacation for much less than you would think. Just take a moment to plan ahead, set a budget, and take advantage of the money saving opportunities available to you.
It’s definitely on every families bucket list . Also very expensive , any way to save money would help . The memories would be worth every penny though .
I learned a few years back that you can request a free cup of ice water at the parks. I wish I knew this back when they had the Florida resident special for all four parks for $100. I think my boyfriend and I had spent over $100 on water because we went during one of the hottest weeks.
Will definitely refer to this before returning to Disney World.
Pinning this for my next visit to Walt Disney World. Thanks!
I so needed to read this one thanks for sharing. We would love to go here and really needed to know the ins and outs to saving money especially now.
Great tips!