Are you dreaming of a magical holiday at Disney but are concerned about your budget? Look no further! This guide will provide you with tips and tricks to have a budget-friendly Disney holiday without sacrificing any of the fun or magic. With careful planning and a little bit of creativity, you can make your dream Disney trip a reality without breaking the bank.
If you are looking for a family holiday, there are few that can match the magic of Walt Disney World. Disney is synonymous with entertainment and has been engaging with children for generations. The parks, such as the one in Florida, are visited by millions of people every year, but it can work out to be an expensive holiday.
Thankfully, there are ways that you can still enjoy the thrill of Disney on a budget. Here, then, is the thrifty traveler’s guide to budget-friendly Disney holidays.
Book Off Season
You are probably desperate to book your Disney World Florida holiday today! However, it really can make sense to book off-season if you are determined to save money. There will be peak seasons at the theme parks, which usually coincide with school holiday periods. This means the summer and holidays are often busy and more expensive.
The best times to book your holiday are typically January through early February, plus September, October, and November. However, it is always a good idea to check prices around those times to see if there are other dates that may have special deals. Avoiding high season will save you money on flights, accommodations, and theme park tickets. Plus, the parks will be less crowded, allowing for a more enjoyable experience overall.
Look Into Packages
It may seem like a good idea to book everything separately, but that is often not the case. You can find some great package deals online for Disney holidays in Florida. These packages will often include flights, accommodations, and park tickets, all at a discounted rate compared to booking everything separately.
Be sure to do your research and compare prices from different websites and travel agencies to find the best deal for you. Some packages may also come with added perks such as meal plans or free shuttle services to and from the parks.
Stay For Longer
With the Disney World theme park tickets, they get progressively cheaper the longer you stay. As an example, as of 2018, a two-day pass was $104.50 per day, but if you choose a five-day pass, it becomes $79 per day.
This can actually work out cheaper if you book your holiday every few years instead of every year or two, but stay longer. You also have the advantage of being able to do more on each holiday than you could if you went for only a few days.
Choose a Value Resort or Stay Off-Site
Staying at a Disney resort is a lot of fun for everyone. These resorts also have all you need, including food, pools, and free travel to the park. If you want to stay on a budget, then you can choose the value of the on-site resort. While these are more basic than some of the other resorts, they still have all of the perks, and you can upgrade in certain areas.
Another option that can be significantly less expensive is to stay off-site at one of the hotels near the park. They have good facilities, and some also offer a hopper bus to the park. You won’t get the same experience as staying on-site, but you can save a lot of money that you can use elsewhere.
Food and Drink
Disney World is not just about the rides and attractions; it’s also known for its delicious food. But dining at Disney can add up quickly, especially with a family in tow. Here are some tips to keep your food costs down:
- Bring your own snacks and water bottles into the park to save money on buying them inside.
- Consider purchasing a refillable mug for unlimited drinks at your resort.
- Book character meals for breakfast or lunch instead of dinner, as they tend to be less expensive.
- Share meals between family members to save money and reduce food waste.
- Look into meal plans offered by Disney that may help you save money on dining expenses.
Plan Your Souvenir Purchases
It’s hard to resist all the Disney merchandise available at the parks, but it can add up quickly. Instead of buying everything in one go, plan out your souvenir purchases throughout your trip. This will not only help you stick to a budget but also give you time to decide which items are truly worth buying.
You can also find more affordable souvenirs outside of the park at places like Disney Outlet stores or online shops. Don’t forget that taking photos is a great way to capture memories without spending any money!
Transportation
If you are flying into Orlando International Airport, consider using Disney’s Magical Express service for complimentary transportation to and from your Disney resort. You can also take advantage of Walt Disney World’s complimentary transportation system between their resorts and theme parks, as well as water transportation to select resorts.
For those driving to Disney World, be sure to research and take advantage of any discounts on rental cars or parking at the parks. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft instead of renting a car if it proves to be more cost-effective.
In Conclusion
With some careful planning and budgeting, you can have an unforgettable Disney holiday without breaking the bank. Remember to book off-season, look into package deals, choose affordable accommodations, save money on food and drink, plan your souvenir purchases, and consider transportation options. With these tips in mind, you can make your dream Disney trip a reality without sacrificing any of the magic.
