Mention “Disney World” and you’re bound to get a variety of responses. Some people love it and others could not care less about it. Regardless of the response, it’s obvious that many love visiting the theme park, given its popularity.
There is just one problem for many American families when it comes to Disney World — it can get quite expensive. Between the travel, hotel costs and ticket prices, it can be cost-prohibitive. The good news is that there are ways to save on a vacation to Disney World, as long as you do your homework ahead of time.
Think Outside the Box With Lodging
Staying on Disney-owned property can be pricey — as much as $500 or more a night. Thankfully, there are other options. Disney properties start around $100 per night; just be sure to read the reviews ahead of time. You can also get more creative and stay in a rental unit outside of Disney property. Not only will this provide you time away from the hubbub of the park for a fraction of the cost, but you can stretch your vacation budget further by having a place to prepare your own meals.
Skip the Food
When you go to a destination like Disney World, you generally want to stay the entire day to get your money’s worth. This adds additional costs in the form of meals and snacks.
What many don’t know is that Disney World allows you to bring in your own snacks and bottles of water. You can bring fruit, trail mix and granola bars, for example. This strategy can be a great way to lower your overall spending. Keep in mind that most Disney food stands will provide you with free ice water if you ask, too.
Get a Military Discount
A single-day ticket to Disney World is $105 for anyone over the age of five. You do get a discount if you purchase multi-day tickets, but your total cost will still be higher. You can also select various add-ons, such as adding the water park or access to other Disney theme parks, like Epcot.
If either you or a family member are active or retired military you can buy the same pass at a significant discount. It is important to point out that the holidays and two weeks in March and April are blacked out, but if you will be traveling with a family member who is retired or active military, you can get in for a significant reduction in price. The tickets are not transferable, but are offered at participating military sales outlets.
Skip the Combo Meal
Food is one of those costs that can creep up at you while at Disney World, which can be disastrous to a vacation budget. There are many fast food and casual sit-down restaurants on the Disney property, which is convenient, but you’re likely overlooking a money-saving opportunity if you eat at them.
One way to reduce the cost is by bypassing the “combo meal’ price, which includes chips or fries and a soda, and just sticking with the basic entrée. Your cost will be about $2 less per meal. Over several days and multiple people, those savings can add up. Just be sure to ask for it.
Set a Souvenir Budget
One of the easiest ways to add expenses to your trip to Disney World is by buying souvenirs — especially when you’re traveling with children, as shops are everywhere. Unfortunately, Disney tends to overinflate the prices of such items and bloat the cost of your trip.
Instead of buying each item your child asks for, set a budget or allow one item per child for the trip. This technique will allow your kids to have something to remember the trip by and not leave you broke in the process. Assuming you’d like to get more than one item, take a mental note of what they ask for and buy it for significantly cheaper online when you return home from your vacation.
Taking a vacation to Disney World is a rite of passage for many families. With a little creative thinking, you can shave a significant amount off the cost of your trip without sacrificing on the memories.
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5 Ways to Save on Your Vacation to Disney World originally appeared on usnews.com
