Maximize Your Disney World Vacation Savings: Tips and Tricks to Stay Financially Smart

Jul 20

3 min read

It's a fact: Over 50% of individuals return from Disney trips with a staggering $5,000 to $10,000 in debt. In my opinion, this is not the best approach to vacationing. The mere thought of accumulating such a substantial debt post-Disney getaway triggers immense anxiety, my little orange emotion that overwhelms my feelings.

Once you have purchased your tickets and room, get ready to maximize your savings at Disney World with these awesome tips and tricks to stay ahead of the game and avoid becoming just another statistic!

Make sure to grab a collapsible cooler bag or an insulated backpack to keep your drinks and lunches perfectly chilled. For an extra frosty touch, pack some freezer bags filled with ice to keep everything extra cold.
Make sure to head to the grocery store before you reach your hotel or simply place an order for delivery right to your resort. This tip is absolutely essential for saving money. Imagine this: the typical bottled drink costs $4-$5 at the parks or resorts. And let's not forget, it's Florida - staying hydrated is a must! Stock up on cases of water, drinks, snacks, and even breakfast items. Your wallet and your body will thank you!
Make some delicious lunches and enjoy them in the park! Building on the previous tip, you have the freedom to bring your own food to the park. Grab some fresh bread and your favorite fillings to create scrumptious sandwiches. Plus, don't forget that most hotel rooms come equipped with a fridge to keep your goodies cold and a microwave for heating up anything that requires it. It's time to elevate your picnic game and savor every bite!
At the parks, you can score some liquid gold at any quick service stand - yep, free water, folks! And hey, there are bottle refill stations too. Now, fair warning, that water might just taste like it's been scooped straight out of the moat around Cinderella's castle (hello, Florida water!), but hey, it's on the house! So, if you're cool with a hint of royal flavor, grab a bottle and voilà - staying hydrated on a budget has never been more regal!
If you're planning to stay longer or just can't get enough of popcorn, treat yourself to a reusable popcorn bucket at the stands. The best part, there is one for every season and most characters. You can get additional refills for just $2! It's a super savvy move because you can keep using it for as long as you like. If you're coming back for more fun, don't forget to bring it along again!
Buy Disney gift cards - I was a bit hesitant about this one at first, but let me tell you, it's a game-changer! If you're serious about sticking to your budget, this is the way to go. You'll stay on track and in control like never before! Look out for amazing deals at places like Target, Costco, and more where you can snag discounted gift cards. Plus, you can conveniently upload them to your My Disney Experience app and use them for all your purchases. No need to carry around physical cards anymore - it's effortless and efficient!
Use Disney Transportation! Say goodbye to the hassle of ride shares or paying for transportation at the parks and resorts. With buses, water taxis, monorails, and skyliners at your service, traveling from one park to another, exploring different resorts, or heading to Disney Springs has never been more convenient and fun! The skyliner is it's own "ride" for my 5 year old.