Whether it’s your first time to Walt Disney World, or if you’ve been before, you likely already know that it can be costly. That said, there are many great tips and tricks out there to help you save more money on your Disney vacation. This is what makes it possible for couples, families, and friends to attend the Disney parks and enjoy all that they have to offer. Lets look at how to save on a Disney vacation!
Disney has to be the ultimate vacation destination for families. There’s so much to see and do. Not to mention that it’s every child’s dream come true. What may not be a dream come true is the cost. A Disney vacation can be quite expensive, but there are ways to save money – some that may shock you.
How to save on a Disney vacation
You may already know about how you can use certain credit cards to earn reward points that you can use towards plane tickets for Disney vacation trip, but what are some other ways you can save even more?
1. Consider A Disney All-Inclusive Vacation
It may seem counterintuitive to plan a vacation where you’ll be staying and eating all your meals at the Disney parks. However, it’s actually much more affordable. Disney has packages to meet almost any budget. The best part is you don’t have to worry about driving to and from the parks, you can stay in the parks later, you don’t have to worry about food costs, etc. There are so many additional benefits to the these packages that you can check out on Disney’s site.
Planning a Disney World trip on a budget
If you don’t want to go with a vacation package, no worries. Sit down and create an overall budget. What is the max you want to spend on your vacation? Next, break down the total into subcategories. How much do you want to spend on travel, a hotel, food, souvenirs, etc. Make sure you have all your bases covered and over-estimate what you’ll spend. This way, there’s no surprises.
Set a Date
It’s one thing to plan a vacation and it’s another to actual go. Set a date for your vacation and book it. This forces you to lock in your plans and ensures that you’ll actually be able to get in the park once you’re ready.
2. How much should i save for a trip to disney world
Look at your budget and date and determine how may pay periods until the big day. For example, if you’re going in a year, and get paid every other week, you’ll have roughly 26 weeks to save up. Each week, you would need to save 1/26th of your total budget. If you can, always put in more than that just in case you have a week where you can’t put in the full amount.
3. Plan for Small Expenses
You want to have a plan so that you spend your money wisely. For example, on the drive to Disney, fill your car with snacks and drinks before leaving. This will prevent the need to spend money in convenience stores. Also, research options for buying souvenirs. Disney Outlets, Targets and other stores are some of the best places to find Disney merchandise for a great price. Don’t spend more than you have to.
4. Go in the off season
There’s no real “off season” for Disney, since everyone loves it, but there are certain times of year that people visit more frequently than others. For example, summer is popular because the weather is nice and students are out of school for summer vacation. That said, the Disney parks are located in warm climates and you can choose a less popular time of year to visit and save some. Remember this tip to save even more on a Disney vacation!
5. Shop Costco for savings
Costco sometimes has some great travel tickets and fun passes like the CityPass on discount. Check it out to see how much you can save.
6. How to save at disney world
Disney is a great vacation destination, but you need to be smart about your finances. While you may be tempted to stay outside the resort, you can actually save money staying at a Disney resort. Do your homework, compare your options, and go with what works best for your family and budget.
Order groceries in
Did you know that you can have groceries delivered to your Disney hotel and prepare meals in your room to save on the costs of eating out in the park? Even with the delivery fees, you’re going to save a ton. A soda can cost as much as $4 inside the park and trying to feed a family multiple meals a day is really going to add up.
Kids under three get in free at Disney
Nothing more to add. If you have little kids, you can save more on admission.
Do your Disney character meals at breakfast instead of dinner
If you’re planning a character meal, you can save much more by choosing breakfast instead of dinner.
Don’t buy bottled water
You can get free water at the counter-service restaurants in the park.
Now that you have these tips on how to save on a Disney vacation, you’re ready to start planning your next Disney trip today. Have a magical stay!
Ordering groceries and also the costco tips are two I didn’t know about, thanks!
Great tips- thank you! I would love to be able to afford a Disney vacation!
Great tips to save whilst on a Disney vacation which is the most expensive vacation I’ve ever been on, with 7 kids it’s no wonder one was under 3 but still.
I love the idea of character meals at the beginning of the day before everyone gets tired!
Yes, especially with toddlers!
I would definitely try to choose going other times than summer as suggested. Cutting down on the crowds somewhat always helps.
Totally agree! Off peaks are best!
You’ve got great ideas here and although it’s been over 20 years since I’ve been there, it still seems like yesterday because I had such a great time.
It so magical for children of all ages! Hoping to go back soon!
If ever I could afford a Disney vacation!
You’ve got great ideas on helping to save for Disney especially the grocery and water
Thank you!