Let’s be real, a Disney park day can get expensive fast if you’re not paying attention. Life is rough, we all need a little bit of Disney whenever we can, but how can we cut the cost down? With a little planning, you can save some money without giving up any of the magic. Here are my favorite tips:
Bring Your Own Food!
Disney lets you bring outside food and drinks into the parks (just no glass containers or alcohol). Pack sandwiches, snacks, and a refillable water bottle before you head to the parks! I see a lot more people doing this now! PB & J’s are pretty popular!
Free Water, Everywhere
Don’t pay $4 or $5 for a bottle of water. Any quick service counter will give you free cups of ice water, just ask. Bring a refillable bottle and keep filling it up all day. Ok yes, the free water has a funny taste to it at times, I agree. Bring flavor packets to put in that free water, it helps!
Eat Smart
Have breakfast before you go or pack a lunch, then plan for one main meal in the parks. Eating at off peak times (lunch at 11, dinner at 4:30) can also mean shorter lines. You can also get a kids meal to save money if you’re not in the mood for a heavy meal! I do that sometimes. And refillable popcorn buckets are a great deal if you’re a snacker! Cheap refills beat full price popcorn every time.
Buy Before You Go
Ponchos, sunscreen, autograph books, glow sticks, etc… all of it costs way more inside the parks. A dollar store poncho beats a higher price park poncho every single time. Stock up at home or on Amazon before your trip.
Pick Your Ticket Day Wisely
Weekdays are usually cheaper than weekends. And if you’re a passholder, keep an eye out for Good to Go Days to skip the reservation hassle.
Set a Souvenir Budget
Decide on a spending limit before you walk in, especially for the kids. Alright, for us big kids too. The Emporium at the end of Main Street is designed to get you on the way out. It happens to me all the time! Having a number in mind, it keeps the magic from turning into regret at the register. Again, guilty here!
Penny Pressing
Pressed pennies aren’t free anymore, they’re $1 a press at the machines now. You can get all 8 designs for 5 bucks! Still a cheap souvenir, just bring some dollar bills if it’s your thing.
The food and water tips alone can easily save a family $50 to $100 over a full park day. Maybe more! A little planning goes a long way! I hope that helps give you some ideas as how you can save a little bit of money for your Disney Day. Every dollar counts!
Tell us some of your favorite money saving tips in the comments!!
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