A Disney vacation sounds like a dream come true for many. However, when they learn the cost of this vacation, they may find it becomes a horror story. It doesn’t have to be.
With the right tips and tricks, a person can plan an affordable Disney vacation. Certain expenses are non-negotiable, such as the park tickets, but people can find other ways to save. The key lies in minimizing necessary costs while avoiding those that aren’t essential.
Planning
To have a fantastic time at Disney without spending a fortune, a person must plan the trip. Lodging prices vary by the time of year, and a person might find they are eligible for discount tickets through their employer or another group they are associated with. Warehouse clubs might offer discounts, and Disney provides seasonal offers, so be sure to check them out. Avoid going during the holidays or tourist seasons to save money and spend less time waiting in lines.
Stay at Disney
Disney has a range of hotels on-site to choose from. People often assume they will pay more if they decide to stay on the property. Resort guests benefit from free transportation, so there will be no fuel costs unless the family chooses to leave the property and explore other local attractions. There are no parking fees for resort guests, and people love exploring the different transportation options the theme parks offer.
There are several lodging options at the theme parks. To save on accommodations, choose a value resort. All hotels have food options on site and a minimum of one pool. They also offer Disney activities, so the family can have fun without leaving their resort. Each room has a Disney theme that everyone is sure to love. A family might even choose to camp at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground when staying at Disney World. Disneyland does not have this option, unfortunately.
Avoid Ticket Options
Park Hopper passes and Water Park and Sports Option passes cost more than standard theme park tickets. When doing Disney on a budget, it’s best to stick with the standard tickets. There is more than enough in each theme park to keep the family busy for days. The only exception to this is when a family is going for three days and wants to visit all four parks in Disney World. Disneyland offers special ticket pricing for guests staying three or four days who only want to visit one park each day.
Take Photos
Don’t pay for PhotoPass. Take a digital camera and cell phone to capture pictures instead of using the PhotoPass. The photographers will happily use a guest’s camera or phone to snap a shot. All cast members will take photos for guests. The only time they will refuse is when one or more guests have alcoholic beverages in hand. They are not permitted to take these photos.
Don’t Pay for the Dining Plan
Families can save money by bringing snacks and drinks or eating in the room whenever possible. People who drive to Disney should stop at a grocery store before entering the park and purchase groceries. Try to eat one meal in the park each day and the other two off-site or in the room. Doing so can save a lot of money.
These are only a few of the many ways a person can save on a trip to Disney. Talk with family and friends who have been there before to see what they recommend. With careful planning and budgeting, a person might find they save enough to take a return trip soon. Who wouldn’t enjoy that?
