13 Ways to Save Money When Visiting Disneyland or Walt Disney World
A trip to Disney is certainly a magical experience. You might wonder, though, if it’s possible to visit “The Happiest Place on Earth” without breaking the bank.
As Jim Gaffigan says in his famous standup routine simply entitled “Disney,” you might be asking yourself, “How can I spend an enormous amount of money, be uncomfortable and listen to my children complain and whine? Disney!”
But before you walk away from a venture to see Mickey Mouse based on expenditure alone, you might want to consider the plethora of ways to plan a Disney vacation AND stay on budget.
As a born-and-bred Disney fanatic, I recall a day when a 1-day ticket to Disneyland in Anaheim, California cost $26. My parents remember even less expensive tickets. Now prices range well into the hundreds, depending on your length of stay and number of parks you choose to visit.
For a family of four, you’re looking to possibly spend thousands of dollars for the hotel, food, parking, travel, and tickets — but let’s not forget those pricey Mouse Ear headbands and souvenirs, too.
But, have no fear, Disney on a dime is possible! Here are 13 budget-saving tips and tricks you can employ to add a little extra pixie dust to your wallet.
1. Always bring your own food and drinks.
Everyone loves a good churro or cup of pineapple Dole Whip! And we all know those giant turkey legs are must!
You can still enjoy your favorite iconic snacks while also cutting corners where it counts. Plan to make your own sandwiches and stock up on snacks ahead of time.
Have a treat here and there (we buy a few churros and split them in half for our family of 5), but for the big meals, prepping ahead is going to save you a ton.
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Disneyland in California has a designated picnic area outside the Main Gate where guests can enjoy a homemade meal (provided it doesn’t need to be heated). You can bring snacks into the park but steer clear of glass containers (unless it’s baby food).
For a full list of prohibited items, be sure to check the park rules for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World before going.
2. Did you know the parks offer ‘value’ days for cheaper tickets?
Yep. Some days cost more than others. Both resorts offer “value days.” Before booking your trip, scan the calendars provided on the park websites to see when you’re going to get the most bang for your buck.
For Disneyland, Value tickets start at $104 for one day, one park. WDW offers something similar starting at $109. This strategy does require some planning ahead and this special pricing isn’t available during peak seasons or holidays such as the summer vacation months.
If you’re planning a longer stay, the more you play, the less it costs per day. You can also visit GetAwayToday.com for reasonably priced, discounted vacation packages and tickets for both Anaheim and Orlando.
3. Service members can take advantage of special discounts.
That’s right! Military members and their families get some extra special love on their vacation days. Southern California residents get discounts at certain times throughout the year, too. If you plan to return within the year, Disneyland even offers an all new Flex Passport for $599.
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Restrictions and blockout dates apply but even with this less expensive annual pass option you’ll get a 10% discount on select dining and merchandise.
4. Costco and Target may just be your new best friends. And don’t forget about Ebates!
For Target card (both credit and debit) holders, the 5% cash back discount applies to gift cards, too! You can load up on Disney gift cards ahead of time using your Target card and get an instant discount. If you purchase the gift cards online be sure to go through Ebates, which generally gives you 1% back on Target purchases.
If you love to buy in bulk, Costco has some fabulous travel packages for both Disney destinations. Check your travel dates through the Costco website to find out how much you can save.
5. Disney Princess Barbie dolls are less expensive at Walmart.
If you love Disney merchandise (and your kids do too), consider making bigger purchases before you go. You can find Disney, Star Wars and Marvel themed T-shirts and clothing at your local Walmart, Target and Kohls.
If you want to make it extra special for your little ones, choose one special Disney gift for them (like a backpack or stuffed toy) beforehand. Wrap it and plan to gift it on the drive or once you reach your hotel.
If you simply can’t go without taking something home from the park, small and simple is the way to go. If you grab that lightsaber from Amazon ahead of time, little Luke or Leia Skywalker should be perfectly happy with a postcard or pen or even a pressed penny on their way out the gates.
6. Staying off property can save you some big bucks.
In some cases, staying at a Disney resort can save you money. Go Banking Rates suggests staying on property gives you “the full Disney experience” and also saves cash on transportation.
On the other hand, Walt Disney World resorts charge up to $25 per night for parking depending on where you stay and resort fees can add to the cost. Do your research and watch for deals throughout the year. Taking an Uber or Lyft from an off-property hotel might turn out to cost less than parking alone.
It will take some time, but compare resort stay costs to that of an off-property hotel that includes free parking and breakfast. Look at sites like AirBNB and VRBO too.
For example, staying at a hotel like The Candy Cane Inn in Anaheim will not only give you free overnight parking and a free breakfast, you’ll also get your own free private shuttle to and from the main entrance shuttle area for under $200 a night on average.
7. Kids under the age of 3 are free.
For those toddlers and infants, a trip to Disney can be both magical and affordable. Although they won’t be able to ride everything, there is plenty for your little ones to experience.
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Check out Disney Under 3’s list of “Top 10 Reasons to Bring Your Infant or Toddler on Vacation.” They get in for free, fly for free and eat way less! Everyone wins!
8. A Disney Visa credit card may be your golden ticket.
If you haven’t delved into the world of all a Disney credit card has to offer (aside from of a variety of fun card designs), special offers are regularly available for new card members — like a substantial first time statement credit.
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Card members also enjoy perks like a 10% discount on certain purchases over $50 and a special card member character meet and greet.
9. Be sure to pack the stroller and wheelchair.
Strollers and wheelchairs from home generally fly for free and will save you oodles as opposed to renting them at the park.
Be sure to check the new park guidelines for stroller size allowances and leave wagons at home. Strollers are also great for carrying those extra jackets and water bottles all day.
10. Consider using a travel agent.
The Daily Meal suggests that travel agents may seem an outdated way to plan a vacation, but they also know a ton of insider tips when it comes to staying on a budget.
11. Mouse Ears don’t have to cost you a fortune.
Did you know that those specialty Mickey and Minnie Mouse Ears can be found on Etsy? You also have the option to make your own. Check out this tutorial for DIY No Sew Minnie Minnie Mouse ears.
12. Make your own memories.
Autograph books inside the parks aren’t cheap. Take time to plan ahead. Let your kids choose a notebook they can decorate or have one big scrapbook for all autographs that you’ll fill with photos later.
One thing we’ve done is take a Disney storybook in with us. It’s fun to have the characters sign their names on the top of their story’s page.
13. When in doubt, ask the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Wish you had a friend who knew all the ins and outs, tips and tricks to share before your vacation? Look no further than the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Users can submit or search FAQs to the panel and even specify the park they plan to visit. The Moms Panel is made of the most Disney savvy people out there who can help point you in the right direction during your planning.
Know any money saving tips that aren’t listed here? Share the love, plan ahead and always do your research. The time you put into your Disney trip ahead of time could save you plenty in the end.
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