5 Major Ways You’re Wasting Money on Your Disney World Vacation [& Money Saving Tips for Disney World]

MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR DISNEY WORLD

Are you looking for some of the best money saving tips for Disney World? This is the post for you!

money saving tips for disney world

It is no secret that Disney World vacations can be ridiculously expensive. 

But there are hidden ways that Disney trips can be drastically more costly than they actually need to be. Which brings us to the question: Is your trip secretly draining your wallet more than it should? 

If so, you’re not alone. Most of us have accidentally overspent on Disney vacations. Luckily, I have found some effective money saving Disney tips (the hard way) that I can now share with you!

These 5 ways to save money on a Disney trip can ensure you have the adventure of a lifetime without breaking the bank. 

From unexpected costs to common spending traps, let’s talk all about the ways you may be wasting money whilst planning or on your Disney vacation (and tips and tricks to save money at Disney World!).

This post is all about the 5 biggest ways that many people waste money on their already expensive Disney World vacations (and the best money saving tips for Disney World to avoid these mistakes).

 

Money Saving Tips for Disney World

 

1) Splurging on Moderate & Deluxe Resorts

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Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

 

When planning a Disney World vacation, the thought of staying at one of their stunning resorts can be appealing. The promise of luxury, convenience, and a magical experience can be very tempting. 

However, opting for Moderate or Deluxe Resorts can quickly inflate your budget. Let’s explore why splurging on these resorts might not be worth the extra cost and how you can enjoy the magic without breaking the bank.

Why Moderate & Deluxe Resorts Are Expensive

These resorts are visually appealing and come with higher room rates due to additional amenities like larger and more comfortable rooms and prime locations.

It can cost hundreds more per night to stay in a moderate or deluxe resort – instead of a value resort (or affordable off-site option).

 

The Cheaper Way to Stay On-Site [so you don’t waste money!]

Choosing less costly accommodations doesn’t mean sacrificing the Disney magic. Here are some practical money saving tips for Disney World vacations specifically related to staying on-site:

  • Consider Value Resorts: Disney’s Value Resorts offer the same immersive experience without the high cost. They are budget-friendly and still provide fun theming and magical touches. They aren’t luxurious, but they can be a great deal (especially at the All-Star Resorts). 
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Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

 

  • Look for Promotional Offers: Disney often provides special offers or discounts on their resort rooms. Whether you’ve never visited before, or you’re an Annual Passholder, be sure to check Disney’s site to see if you’re eligible for a hotel discount. 
  • Stay Off-Peak: Booking during off-peak times can save you money. Sometimes, the difference is enough to extend your visit or spend on other experiences.
  • Rent DVC Points: Disney Vacation Club points are rentable from members and can lead to significant savings if you want a Deluxe experience on a budget (moderate or sometimes even value prices). 
ways to save money on a disney trip
The entrance of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village (the DVC building)

 

2) Paying for Overpriced Food and Drinks

tips and tricks to save money at disney world
Impossible Meatloaf meal at Liberty Tree Tavern at Magic Kingdom

 

The common theme of (almost) all things at Disney World is that they’re expensive. 

And one of the most noticeable expensive parts of a Disney World trip is often dining. 

The most expensive (and arguably super overpriced) options are table-service restaurants. From character dining to signature dining, Disney is happy to charge a lot – although it may not be worth it for a lot of people.

In my previous post, How Much Can You Save By Dining Exclusively at Disney World Quick Service Restaurants VS Table Service Locations, we show how you can save hundreds (or even thousands) by choosing quick service dining locations.

Most quick service meals are under $15 (this is usually at least half the cost of table service meals). 

You can save even more money by bringing your own snacks to Disney World.

 

3) Overpaying for Disney World Tickets (& How to Save Money on Disney World Tickets)

 

  • Buying Tickets at the Gate

Buying tickets at the gate might seem convenient, but isn’t always cost-effective.

As explained in this helpful blog post, you’ll spend more if you buy a 1-day tickets each day of your vacation (instead of a Multi-Day ticket – more on this in a moment).

Also, if you buy your tickets in advance, you may find them at the lowest price possible (as we know, Disney likes to increase prices, so if this happens just before your visit, you would have to pay the new prices).

If you purchase tickets at the gate, you will have to wait in (potentially long) lines – which is a huge waste of your valuable Disney theme park time!

Purchasing Disney World tickets at the gate also prevents you from shopping around for great deals. Authorized ticket sellers often sell Disney tickets at a lower price (make sure to check the company is legit!).

For example, Undercover Tourist, often sells Disney tickets at a discount (I recently bought my Disneyland 5-day ticket with Lightning Lane at $121 less than the usual price! Although Disney recently increased the prices of the tickets, Undercover Tourist was still selling them at the original price. Whilst large discounts aren’t always available, it never hurts to check. Especially if you’re buying multiple tickets for your family).

My advice is to shop around at different Disney World ticket sellers, so that you can find the best prices!

 

  • Ignoring Multi-Day Passes

Do you plan to visit the parks for more than one day? Then consider investing in multi-day passes. These passes offer a better per-day rate compared to single-day tickets. 

 

  • Paying for Park Hopper Tickets

Park Hopper Disney World tickets allow you to visit more than one park per day. 

If you’re not planning to visit more than one park each day, save yourself the extra cost.

RELATED POST:

 

  • Not Considering Disney World Annual Passes

disney world hacks to save money

For frequent visitors, not considering an annual pass can be a missed opportunity. 

Even if only one person in your group buys an annual pass, the discounts on dining, merchandise, and even AP hotel discounts can add up to substantial savings. 

If you plan on taking at least two Disney World vacations in a 12-month period, it’s worth looking into the potential perks and savings an Annual Pass may bring. 

RELATED POST: Can You Save Money By Becoming a Disney World Annual Passholder?

 

4) Not Utilizing Disney’s Free Offerings [there are a few remaining!]

Since the pandemic, Disney has removed a lot of previously free services. From Fastpasses to Disney Magical Express to free MagicBands, we lost a lot.

However, Disney still has some free offerings you should not ignore!

 

Free Disney Transportation Options

how to save money on disney world tickets

Disney offers a variety of complimentary transportation options that not only make getting around easier but also cut down on parking and travel costs. 

  • Buses: These run extensively throughout the parks and resorts. 
  • Monorail and Boats: The iconic monorail offers a relatively quick and scenic route between Magic Kingdom and Epcot. If you’re staying at a monorail resort, you can really enjoy this service.
  • Skyliner: Want to fly to your destination? Take the Disney Skyliner. It’s a sky gondola system connecting several Skyliner resorts and parks (Epcot and Hollywood Studios), offering a unique way to travel.

By taking full advantage of these transportation options, you save on hefty parking fees and enjoy a hassle-free experience.

 

Complimentary Activities and Events

Even without entering the parks, Disney offers a treasure trove of free activities and events that can fill your itinerary with fun and magic. Here are some must-do free activities:

  • Fireworks: Watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks from areas like Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian offers fireworks views without the cost.

how to save money booking Disney World?

  • The Electrical Water Pageant: This cute light show can be seen from the monorail resorts, as well as Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.
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The Electrical Water Pageant from Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

 

  • Resort Hopping: Each Disney resort has a unique theme. Whether you want another place to dine, shop or just go for a stroll, why not explore another Disney hotel?!
  • Animal Watching: Speaking of resort hopping, you can visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge for free access to savanna viewing areas, where you can watch animals roam, including giraffes and zebras.

How to go to Disney World on a budget?

  • Disney Springs: Stroll around Disney Springs to enjoy live music, spontaneous performances, and the bustling atmosphere. Entrance is free.

 

5) Splurging (too much) on Souvenirs (don’t worry, we’ve all been there!)

how to go to disney world on a budget?

I’m not saying don’t buy anything at Disney World. 

But I’m suggesting that you consider planning and/or budgeting for souvenirs ahead of time. 

As someone who has made one (or a few) too many impulse purchases at Disney World, I see the value of this!

If you want to make a realistic plan or budget for shopping at Disney World, check out the Disney Store online to see some of the items and prices.

Remember you can also save on souvenirs by:

  • Buying them on Disney Store online (during a sale).
  • Buying souvenirs from Disney Character Warehouse stores (their outlet stores. In 2019, I found a $40 phone case for only $0.99!). 
  • Finding Disney souvenirs at less expensive stores nearby (like Walmart and Target).

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ways You’re Wasting Money at Disney World & Money Saving Tips for Disney World

1) How much money should you budget for Disney?

To figure out your budget, you’ll need to answer these questions:

  • How many people am I visiting Disney World with (or am I taking a solo trip)?
  • How long will my Disney World vacation be?
  • How will I travel to Disney World? (looking at flight prices, fuel cost etc.).
  • Do you need to rent a car? Take any Ubers or Lyfts? Will you be taking Mears to and from the airport (if you’re flying to Orlando)?
  • Will I stay on-site or off-site? (And if on-site, will you choose a Value, Moderate or Deluxe Resort?).
  • Do you want Disney World tickets for every day of your trip?
  • Will you take food into the parks or eat at restaurants – or both?
  • Are you buying souvenirs? A considerable amount? Factor that into your budget!

 

2) How to save money booking Disney World?

Looking for ways to save money in the booking phase? Here are ways you can save:

  • Flights – check different websites (such as Skyscanner and Expedia) to find the best prices. If you have a VPN, change your location to see if you find better prices (I saved a few hundred dollars by doing this on my return flights on one trip last year! I use ExpressVPN, but you can have similar results with another reliable VPN).
  • Accommodation – As I mentioned, renting points is a great way. However, if you want to book a more “traditional” way, check a number of reliable websites. Priceline can offer great prices, along with Undercover Tourist. You can also utilise price comparison websites like Trivago.
  • Theme Park Tickets – Shop around different Authorized Ticket Seller websites for the best prices. Some popular sellers include AttractionTickets, AttractionTix and Undercover Tourist (though the best sellers may vary depending on whether you’re a US or International guest).

 

3) How can I avoid spending too much on food at Disney World?

  • Disney allows outside food and drink. Bring your own snacks and water.
  • Eat a hearty breakfast outside the park.
  • Consider sharing meals or ordering kid’s meals to save on dining costs.
  • Some snacks are large enough to be meals!

RELATED POST: Food Budget for Disney World: How To Set & Keep a Small Disney Food Budget [it is possible!]

 

4) Is it cheaper to stay on or off Disney property?

Accommodation costs can vary greatly.

Staying off-site can sometimes be cheaper, but factor in travel time, additional hotel fees and transportation costs.

Compare rates and see if Disney’s on-site perks, like early park entry, are worth it.

RELATED POST: 5 Easy Ways You Can Save a Lot of Money by Staying at Walt Disney World On Site Resorts

 

Ta Ta For Now

Understanding how to avoid wasting money on your Disney World vacation is key. By recognizing how you may overspend on your trip, you can use these effective money saving tips for Disney World to create a more enjoyable and budget-friendly trip. 

Do you have any money saving tips for Disney World? Please share them in the comments!

This post was all about the 5 biggest ways that many people waste money on their already expensive Disney World vacations (and the best money saving tips for Disney World to avoid these mistakes).

 

 

Other Related Posts You May Like

Disney VS Universal Prices – The Ultimate Orlando Theme Park Battle – Is Disney World or Universal Studios the Best Value?

Are the Parks in Disney World Decreasing in Quality? [closing great attractions, mediocre new attractions]

5 Fun & Easy Ways to Prep for Disney World [this will make your vacation so much better]

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