How to go to Disney even if you’re on a budget
For a family of four, a week at Disney could cost anywhere from $4,000–$10,000 or more, which is a lot of money. But don’t run away scared! I’m here to tell you that you can do it for less. You just have to do some planning!
1 - Stay at a Value Resort
I will always be a proponent of staying on Disney property. The All Star Resorts or Pop Century would be my first choice for someone traveling on a tight budget. The rooms have been recently updated, they have great pools, quick dining options, and you get the benefits of staying on Disney property - early access to Lightning Lanes, transportation, early park entry, advanced dining reservations for the length of your stay, and no added resort/parking fees!
2 - Plan far in advance
By starting to plan 12-18 months in advance, you will have more resort options to choose from therefore a better chance at a Value Resort. This is especially important if you’re also planning to travel at a peak time such as Christmas, spring break, or over the summer.
3 - Spend some days at the park and some days at the pool
If you’re planning to spend a week at Disney, instead of filling your days with parks, plan to spend a day or 2 at the pool, visiting Disney Springs, or exploring the different resorts on Disney property. You’ll be amazed at how much you can do just at the Disney resorts alone - movies under the stars, campfires, kids recreational activities, shopping, dining, boat rentals, and more!
4 - Purchase a Base Ticket instead of a Park Hopper
Base tickets allow you to visit 1 park per day. Park Hopper tickets allow you to visit multiple parks per day. Park Hopper tickets generally are around $33 more per person per day. So with a little extra planning, visiting 1 park per day could get you some extra money in your pocket.
5 - Buy Disney gift cards in advance at a discount
If you’re a Target Red Card member, you can get 5% off gift card purchases. Costco also has Disney gift card deals from time to time that amount to a savings around 5-8% as well. Think about it…for a $2,000 trip, that’s $100 in your pocket to use towards meals and merchandise!
6 - Bring your own food
It’s probably unrealistic to expect you to NEVER purchase any food while in the Disney parks. However, using a grocery delivery service for breakfasts in the room & bagged lunches in the parks could save you a lot of money. Plan to just have Quick Service meals for dinner if you really want to save too.
7 - Buy certain souvenirs (like Mickey ears) ahead of time
Watch for sales on Shop Disney for Disney Parks merchandise like Mickey ears! Or, if you’re less worries about the “Disney Parks brand” search Etsy for some unique ears & t-shirt options while also supporting a small business!
8 - Use Disney transportation
One of the biggest perks to staying on Disney property is all of the internal transportation they have for getting you to the parks, Disney Springs, and other resorts. The busses, skyliner, boats, and monorail are all included in the cost of your vacation. Take advantage!
