There is nothing more magical than a trip to Disney World: Castles, fairy tales, excitement, your favorite animated stars come to life. But as prices rise with each passing year, it is become one of the most expensive vacations a family, couple or group of friends can take. How to make the hit to your bank account hurt a little less? Follow these 12 cost-saving tips for visiting Disney on a budget.
Stay in the same parks
Some might argue that Disney hotels are expensive. But, you get so much more from them than just a room to sleep in. 24-hour courtesy transportation to each Disney park means zero parking and car rental fees. In addition, benefits such as access to parks that open earlier or stay open longer on select days. And, while the “budget” hotels offered by Disney may not be the most glamorous options, they are very efficient.
An added benefit of staying at Disney hotels are the convenient electronic bracelets that serve as your ticket to parks, attractions, and even your hotel room and are free when you stay at one of their resorts.
Buy your tickets in advance
The more days you decide to visit Disney World and enjoy its parks the amount of money to pay will be much less. The price of passes for a day inside a park can be $100 per person, but if you decide to stay for three days, that price can drop to $80. Incredible! Don’t you think?
For this reason if you decide to visit Disney World on your next vacation, do not expect to buy the tickets or passes when you arrive. Not much less buy them daily. In addition, parks make adjustments to their rates each year, so if you plan ahead, you can invest before those increases go into effect.
Avoid visiting Disney World during the holidays
Holiday dates are a disaster when it comes to crowds and money. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and basically the entire summer are seasons to avoid if you are traveling on a budget. Ticket prices during the holidays can be from $15 to $40 higher.
From mid-January to the beginning of March and from the end of August to the end of September you can usually find very good deals on tickets. And, of course, visiting during the week is much cheaper than on weekends, especially on Saturdays which can be more expensive.
Compare prices
Discounts can be hard to come by if you do not know where to look. There are currently websites that keep track of sales for a limited time of tickets, deals, discount coupons, and vacation packages.
Take advantage of free activities
Disney World is your own little universe, and there is much more to discover beyond the parks themselves. Some luxurious park hotels allow non-guests to tour their facilities and delight in their great attractions. Another option to enjoy for free and without reservations when you visit Disney World is the opportunity to be outdoors in front of a bonfire while a Disney movie is shown during the evenings.
Plan every day of your trip, including meals
Between the rides, the lines, the meals, the characters, the shows, the shops, and the time you spend at the resort, time flies! While it may seem like a headache to plan everything in advance, you will thank yourself when you are there. You can make a schedule so you know when to go to the most popular attractions and cut down on wait times. Also, choose where to have lunch and dinner ahead of time so you can secure those reservations and not have to debate what to eat, or end up paying more because it is the only restaurant with space available and it is the most expensive in the park.
Make the most of your visit
The parks do not close when the sun goes down, and neither should you. The light show, extended park hours, and fireworks are free with park admission and worth staying up for an extra hour or two to enjoy.
Do not be seduced by all the additional expenses
There is a lot of pressure to make Disney perfect, but you do not need to take advantage of all the amenities to create memories that will last a lifetime. Add-ons like a photo pass or water park pass can look tempting. But, if you are concerned about staying within your budget, just say no. You will be able to take your own photos, and even park characters are willing to help you take a picture with your own camera.
Do not buy character meals
Unless you are traveling with young children, in which case, this experience is a must. Avoid paying for character meals. If your group is older, your favorite friends are already scattered throughout the parks, which makes finding them even more fun!
Avoid an all-inclusive meal plan
One travel tip that few visitors take advantage of is bringing your own food. This is a little-known fact: Disney World allows you to enter with food from outside (except glass bottles and anything that requires a microwave). Disney Resorts allow guests to deliver drinks and snacks to their hotel room in advance. Bringing your own food is not only cheaper, but it also provides a quick solution to fight hunger on the spot, without having to wait in a long line.
Do not buy water bottles
After spending eight hours or more walking between restaurants and attractions, exploring and enjoying yourself, you will get thirsty. So it is best to bring an empty water bottle that will save you $5 for each bottle you would have bought. You can fill your bottle or container at quick-service restaurants. These provide water and ice to guests for free, even if you are not buying food. This is good for your pocket and it is better for the environment.
ALFA