Five Ways to Save Money at Walt Disney World
Magic Kingdom and Other Disney Parks on a Budget
Sep 29, 2008
Everyone knows that Disney vacations are not cheap, but it’s only when you arrive at the parks and resorts that you realize how much the perfect family vacation is really going to cost you. Take a few pointers from seasoned Florida resident Disney-goers on how to curb costs and make this vacation a dream come true, not a financial nightmare.
Disney Hotel Deals
While staying on Disney property is not necessary, it does add to the magic. The beautiful, themed resorts with elaborate swimming pools, shuttle service to the parks, and the special Disney touches are actually more affordable than you think, especially if you visit off-season (January and the fall months).
Disney has 4 Value Resorts with room rates starting at $82 a night for two adults and accompanying children. Disney’s Moderate Resorts start at $145 a night. If your family enjoys camping, you can stay at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Campground for as little as $42 a night. Fort Wilderness has so much to do, you might need to book an extra day just to explore it.
Cheaper Food Options for Disney
The cost of food inside the resorts and parks is probably the most insidious of the hidden costs of a Disney vacation. Don’t make the rookie move of spending $50 a meal plus snacks and drinks for your family of four. Curb your dining costs by bringing your own water and snacks and following some additional tips to avoid overspending on food.
Bring Your Own Stroller to Disney World
The rental strollers at the parks are state-of-the-art, but the price tag can put you into a state of shock. It costs $15 a day for a single stroller and $31 a day for a double. While there are some multi-day discounts available, it adds up to way too much money when you can bring your own for free.
Toddlers and preschoolers at Disney who can walk on their own will still need to ride some of the time. If you have a baby and another small child, bring a double stroller or get creative with your single (it’s amazing how many ways you can squeeze a baby and a toddler into one stroller). Another great option is to bring the single stroller and a sling. Your baby can ride on you for awhile while your preschooler gets a rest from walking.
Disney Promotions for Florida Residents
If you are a Florida resident, there are always deals to be had at Disney. Annual passes allow you to visit any of the theme parks (including the water parks) any day of the year whenever you like. The more affordable seasonal passes don’t include the water parks and have blackout dates, but they are mostly the busiest and/or hottest times of the year (summer, Christmas, Spring Break).
Florida residents and passholders are also eligible for special discounted rates at the Disney resorts, sometimes as low as $55 a night!
Shop the Disney Outlets for Souvenirs
You don’t have to stock up on gifts for the whole family while you’re in the parks. Spend some time browsing the many Orlando outlet stores and you’re sure to find plenty of princess paraphernalia and Goofy gifts at prices that will have you singing Zip-a-dee-do-dah.
Here's another trick if you visit often with small children: bring some of the souvenirs you purchased last trip in your suitcase. When the kids start clamoring for toys, whip those out instead.
Walt Disney World makes for a memorable, though sometimes pricey family vacation. By following these easy tips, you can enjoy the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom while sticking to your budget. After all, maximizing your Disney dollar can keep you from ending up Grumpy in the Happiest Place on Earth.
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