Disney doesn’t have to break the bank.

It’s the most magical place in the world, right?  That doesn’t mean it should cost you a lifetime of savings to visit.

We started going to Disney after celebrating my daughter’s 4th birthday in the parks of Disney World. Since then, we’ve become annual pass holders and try to go as frequently as our bank accounts will allow. But I remember before we made that first trip Disney felt like it was out of reach and over the years, we’ve found affordable ways to visit without breaking the bank. For tips once you get to the park check out Disney! I go there (like a lot)

Plan Ahead

Yeah, this one seems obvious, but I’m talking about a few things when I say plan ahead.

1. buy tickets in advance. This is important because ticket prices honestly change day to day and depending on the season so you want to buy tickets during non-peak times in hopes of lower wait times.
2. If you’re planning to stay on Disney property booking ahead can help you grab a good deal. Frequently, they run specials depending on the season and you could sometimes score up to 45% off your booking and if a better deal appears after you booked you can call and get your room updated.
3. Select your park reservation. Before the pandemic, you could decide what park you were going to the day you visit with no problem. The new system in place helps to limit capacity but can also mean your favorite park may be booked for the day. But don’t fret if you select park hopper tickets you can still visit that park after 2 pm.
4. Download the My Disney Experience app from the app store. This guide will be your bread and butter as it gives you real-time updates on wait times and you can mobile order many favorite spots for a quick snack or drink.
5. Grab a comfy bag. This can be a backpack, FannyPack, whatever bag you want. But if you want a Disney-themed bag you can grab one at the park OR grab one online or at your local BoxLunch store on sale or clearance.

Pack Snacks

No, seriously! Disney allows you to bring in food and water so take advantage of that. My son is a sensory eater, certain textures just do not work with him, so I make sure to pack some of his favorite snacks when we go. This is where that comfy bag I mentioned before comes in handy. While treats are a must at Disney you don’t want to overdo it and blow your budget on fries and mickey ice cream every day.  Simple things like fruit snacks, goldfish, crackers, even gum are perfect for a day at the parks.

Water

We are talking about Florida here, even in winter, it’s still the sunshine state. Refillable water bottles are a must. There are water fountains around the park, and you can get small cups of ice water for free if needed to fill up in between. I prefer a water bottle with a flip-top so I can secure it and drop it in my bag when need be. But most importantly we are talking about making Disney affordable and trust me buying bottles and bottles of water is not what you want to do.

Souvenirs

Not all souvenirs are expensive.  If you are going to Disney for a special occasion head to customer services and grab a pin to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, heck even first visits to Disney.  Wear it proudly all day and watch as cast members congratulate and cheer you on.

Each park has a different activity for kids to participate in like the wilderness explorer badges to collect all over the animal kingdom.

A Mickey balloon, although we’ve never purchased one before I understand they are easily reinflated for those who travel via plane and need to fit it into their luggage.

That’s it! Check back for more details and a list of go-to hotels that are budget-friendly. And let me know if any of these tips help you plan your trip. I’m sure we’ll be heading back soon to see all the changes Disney Genie has brought to the parks.

X0X0,

      Nifty