The sites and sounds of Disney resorts make them popular tourist destinations. Travelers of all ages enjoy riding imaginative rides, seeing costumed characters and taking in the shows offered at these resorts, making the vacation fun for the whole family. While Disney is not a cheap place to visit, there are some ways you can reduce the cost of your Disney vacation, making your getaway a more budget-friendly one.
Forgo the airfare. Depending upon how far you live from your nearest Disney resort, your budget may be best served by skipping the airfare and traveling by car. Although you certainly have to invest more time in your trip if you go by car, you can likely save quite a sizable chunk of change, particularly if you have a large family, since you would otherwise have to buy a plane ticket for each family member.
Travel off-season. While the admission to Disney facilities is the same throughout the year, some portions of your vacation may be discounted if you choose to take your trip off-season. Because Disney parks are most popular while kids are off school during the summer months, most lodgings and even restaurants discount rates outside of these months.
Pick a package. The Disney Resort offers an assortment of packages to travelers who wish to buy everything in one stop and potentially save some cash while doing so. Through the Disney website, you can buy packages ranging from room-only options to all-inclusive park trips.
Stay off site. Although Disney Resorts offer a varied selections of lodgings, you can find a more budget-friendly option if you stay off-site rather than in the park. By booking a not-too-distant hotel in place of a Disney lodging option, you can cut down on costs.
Eat off site. Like most amusement parks, the cost of food within the Disney parks is high. Although your kids may demand munchies while exploring the park, your budget will be best served by taking most of your meals off site. Nearby restaurants offer similar tummy-filling treats but at a fraction of the cost.
Put your kids on a souvenir budget. Disney Resorts host numerous souvenir shops. Instead of allowing a desire for Mickey Mouse ears and other assorted delights to drive you to the poor house, budget a set amount for each of your kids to spend. Tell them the amount or, if they are old enough, give them the amount in cash and caution them that when they burn through the allotted sum, they will receive no more money for souvenir purchases.
