mickey mouse ears
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Disney Dreamin’ on a Dime: Trip to Disney World on a Budget!

Are you dreaming of taking your family to the magical world of Disney but worried about the costs? Walt Disney World is known as the most magical place on earth, but it can also be expensive if you add up the costs.

But don’t worry, because this guide is here to help you plan a trip to Disney World, Orlando that won’t break the bank. With some smart budgeting and planning, you can make your dream vacation a reality without draining your savings account.

This guide will provide tips for you to explore Walt Disney World, Orlando on a budget.

cinderella castle in Disney World Orlando

20 Tips to do Disney World on a budget

1. Visit Disney World during the off-season

Planning a Disney World vacation during the peak season is not a good idea if you are on a budget. Peak season tends to make everything more expensive, from flight fares to theme park tickets.

The period between mid-December and early January is considered busy months, which means the prices are high and it’s hard to stick to a budget. To save money, consider traveling during the cheaper months. Disney World’s low season typically runs from mid-January to February, September to early November, and late November after Thanksgiving.

It can be hard to determine the best time to visit theme parks in Orlando, so make sure to check the guide on best time to visit Orlando.

2. Look for discounts and deals

When planning your Disney World visit, keep an eye out for discounts on Disney World tickets, hotels, and even meals!

Disney frequently offers promotions, especially during the off-season, which can help you save a significant amount. Taking the time to find these deals can make your trip much more budget-friendly.

If you are looking for Orlando vacation deals for as low as $99, check out Orlando99! Booking an Orlando99 deal will save you money and time (as you will stay just a mile away from Disney), allowing you to spend more on your Disney World experience.

travel deals

3. Stay at a non-Disney resort/hotel

While Disney resorts are popular for their themed experiences and extra perks, they often come with a hefty price tag.

Consider staying in an off-site hotel or vacation rental than Disney property, which are typically cheaper options. A good option would be to book with Orlando99 as our package includes a stay at Westgate Town Center Resort, which provides top-notch amenities like pools, water parks, entertainment, restaurants, etc. while being just a mile away from Walt Disney World, Orlando.

Book a non-Disney resort to enjoy a comfortable stay while keeping more of your budget for the fun inside the parks.

4. Bring your own snacks and drinks

One of the most significant costs incurred when at Disney World is the cost of food. The cost of food per day at Disney is approximately $20 per person which can add up if you are traveling with family.

However, Disney allows outside food and other beverages into the park. So a budget-friendly way to cut down on the spending is to purchase your favorite snacks and drinks (non-alcoholic), pack them in a cooler and bring them into the park.

5. Take advantage of free activities and entertainment

Disney World offers plenty of free activities to enjoy at the Disney parks, such as parades, character meet and greets, live performances and so much more!

Another great option is to visit Disney Springs which offers free admission and plenty of entertainment options. You can enjoy live music, street performers, and even a free fireworks show every night.

Exploring Disney Springs is a great way to add some magic to your trip without spending extra on tickets.

Disney world, Orlando Cinderella Castle in Halloween

6. Use Disney gift cards for purchases

Before visiting Disney World, purchase discounted Disney gift cards from retailers such as Target or Sam’s Club to save money on your purchases at the Disney parks.

You can use these gift cards to pay for your Walt Disney World tickets, meals, and souvenirs. Plus, it’s an easy way to set a budget for yourself and avoid overspending.

7. Skip the Park Hopper Ticket

The Disney Park Hopper ticket lets visitors visit multiple parks in one day, which can be exciting for those who want variety. However, sticking to a regular park ticket may be the better option if you prefer a relaxed experience. It allows you to fully explore one park at a time without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by trying to cover too much ground in one day.

If you are not interested in hopping between parks in a single day, skipping the Park Hopper add-on can save your family some money while still enjoying all Disney has to offer.

8. Take advantage of free transportation

Many hotels and resorts near Disney World offer affordable or free shuttle services for guests, providing a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel to the parks. These shuttles often run regularly throughout the day, saving you money on rental cars or ride-sharing services.

Disney World also offers free bus transportation for guests staying on-site, including shuttles to and from Orlando International Airport. Take advantage of these free/affordable transportation options to save money on your trip.

shuttle service vans

9. Eat at quick-service restaurants

Disney World has a variety of dining options, including pricey table-service restaurants and affordable quick-service options. Choosing affordable quick-service restaurants can not only saves your time but also your money.

10. Do your souvenir shopping outside of the park

Buying Disney souvenirs at theme parks can get expensive. Instead consider purchasing Disney souvenirs outside of the park. You can find authentic Disney merchandise at discounted rates at Disney Character Warehouse and outlet malls in Orlando.

Another way to save money on souvenirs is by scoring some free items like celebration buttons, park maps, and occasionally special Disney freebies. These items can be a great way to remember your trip to Disney World, Orlando!

mickey mouse souvenir

11. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass

If you are planning to spend more than one day at the Disney parks, consider purchasing a multi-day pass instead of single-day tickets. These multi-day passes are typically cheaper per day and allow you to visit multiple parks during your stay. Plus, it gives you the flexibility to take breaks in between park days without feeling like you’re wasting money.

12. Don’t overspend on unnecessary extras

Disney World suggests add-ons while booking tickets online or offline. These include dining reservations, special event tickets, VIP touring, etc. Although these may sound attractive, they can add up quickly and may not be necessary for your budget trip. For example, Magic Kingdom After Hours event goes for around $125 per person for just 3 hours in the park after normal closing time. If you are spending the entire day at Magic Kingdom, this add-on would not be worth the extra cost.

When on a budget, focus on the essentials first. If you have extra room in your budget, you can consider adding these extras later.

13. Choose the right time to splurge

Having fun on your trip is equally as important as saving money. Choose one or two special experiences that are a must-do for you and your family, and splurge on those instead of overspending on multiple extras.

This will allow you to create memorable moments without going over your budget. Plus, it’s always good to have something to look forward to during your Disney trip!

Show at Disney World Orlando

14. Pack for all weather conditions

Florida weather is unpredictable, with rain showers common throughout the year, especially during summer. Purchasing a poncho or umbrella inside the park can be costly, so bringing your own from home is wise.

Similarly, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to avoid buying these essentials at Disney’s inflated prices. By preparing for the weather, you can avoid unnecessary purchases that can eat into your budget while keeping your family comfortable.

Check out our guide on packing list for Orlando to make the packing process easy for you and your family!

15. Use free Wi-Fi in the parks

Disney World offers free Wi-Fi throughout the parks, so you don’t have to use your data plan. This can help you save money on your phone bill.

This is especially helpful for international visitors who want to avoid roaming charges while on a Disney World trip. Staying connected allows you to make the most of your time in the parks without spending extra on data plans or international phone charges.

16. Prioritize must-do attractions

It is important to plan ahead and prioritize which attractions and theme parks are a “must-do” for your family.

This way, you won’t waste money on tickets or expensive upgrades like Lightning Lane passes, Park Hopper tickets and tickets for rides and experiences that may not be enjoyable for everyone. Sticking to your priorities ensures a more relaxed and cost-effective travel experience.

Hollywood Tower Hotel in Disney World Orlando

Reading blogs about Disney theme parks and attractions will help you plan ahead, so make sure to check out Orlando99’s Walt Disney World guides!

17. Save on parking

If you are staying off-site and driving to Disney, parking can be a hefty expense. To save money on parking, try booking a resort that offers free shuttles to the parks. Another option is to park for free at Disney Springs and take a bus to any Disney resort, then hop onto the resort’s transportation system to the parks.

All things considered, it is better to book a resort with a shuttle service if you are on a budget.

18. Stay informed for exclusive deals

To maximize savings on your Disney trip, subscribe to Disney’s newsletters, follow their social media accounts, and track Orlando-focused YouTubers and bloggers. These sources offer tips on flash deals, money-saving hacks, and exclusive offers like last-minute discounts.

Staying informed through Disney website also helps you avoid surprises like closed attractions. Watch for reopening promotions after refurbishments or new attractions are introduced, which may include lower-priced tickets or exclusive experiences.

19. Use the Disney Experience App to optimize your time

Download the My Disney Experience app to keep up with real-time updates on wait times, ride closures, dining reservations, and even mobile food ordering.

The app helps you plan your day efficiently, reducing the chances of spending extra on unnecessary purchases due to poor planning. For example, knowing when lines are shorter will allow you to avoid paying for a Lightning Lane pass.

Millennium Falcon Smugglers’ Run Star Wars

20. Take advantage of Disney’s free Photopass locations

Disney PhotoPass Service makes sure everyone is in the picture and documents your Disney vacation experience. Memory Maker allows for the download of all photos and videos from more than one hundred locations within the four theme parks, specific character greeting areas, popular attractions, and character portrait studios.

While Memory Maker is an additional cost, it’s worth considering if you want to have professional photos of your entire family at the moment without relying on personal cameras.

Wrapping up

Visiting Disney World on a budget is possible with some careful planning before and on the trip. By prioritizing your must-do attractions, utilizing off-site accommodations, and avoiding unnecessary expenses, you can have a magical Disney experience without breaking the bank.

With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your time at Disney while staying within your budget. Have fun!

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