Seconds to Go would like to thank guest author, Bash Sarmiento, for sharing his thoughts on budgeting for a Disney World trip.
Ah, Disney World.
That magical, enchanted kingdom—is there anything better? Whether you’re a kid or an adult, this is one place that never ceases to mesmerize and captivate.
Of course, all that magic comes at a steep price. It’s easy to get carried away with the thrill of a Disney trip and end up spending way more than you anticipated.
Don’t let the fear of financial ruin deter you from visiting this wondrous place! With a bit of strategic planning, you can have an amazing time without breaking the bank.
Here are six of our top tips for maximizing your enjoyment of a Disney World trip—because you deserve a dream vacation without the nightmares of debt.
Let’s get started!
Survey the Scene
Before you set off, take a look at the vast array of deals and packages available. You can find package and ticket specials on the Disney World website or by contacting a travel agent.
If possible, try to be flexible with your dates. Disney World has slow and busy times throughout the year, so you may be lucky enough to get discounted rates for less crowded dates. This will, of course, be easier for singles, couples, and smaller groups. But even those with larger families will want to look into any special offers—you never know when you might strike gold!
Make a List of Must-Dos
It’s all too easy to say “set a budget and stick with it”. While that piece of advice might work for some, the reality is that it’s hard to resist all of Disney World’s magical temptations.
Don’t force yourself into being a robot—instead, make a list of all the things you absolutely must do while there. That way, you can focus on those items and get more out of your Disney experience without breaking the bank.
So instead of setting a hard-and-fast budget, make a list of the experiences you just can’t miss out on. This might include special food items to try or souvenirs to buy. Prioritizing your must-dos will help you stay focused and on track. You won’t be overwhelmed by all the options, and you can still have a fantastic time without feeling guilty.
And if you have a little cash left over after ticking off all the items on your list? That’s when you can let loose and enjoy the extra fun that comes with being in Disney World! Get that gigantic Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzel and go on all the rides that catch your eye—it’s your chance to have bonus fun!
Schedule Smartly
Time is money! For that reason, it’s important to plan and make sure you prioritize your must-dos.
Don’t just wing it—make sure you research times for attractions beforehand so that you don’t wind up standing in long queues for hours on end. That way, you can maximize your time and get more out of every dollar you spend.
Don’t Shortchange Yourself
While it might sound counterintuitive, saving some money doesn’t always mean you have to do without. Sure, there are ways to save on certain items (like food and souvenirs)—but if there’s a service or product that could make your trip more enjoyable, don’t be afraid to invest in it.
For example, while it may seem pricey to rent a car, the time and money saved by having your own form of transportation will make it worth it. You’ll be able to go wherever you please without waiting for buses or rideshares, plus you’ll get to experience the beauty of Orlando in a way that simply wouldn’t be possible if you were relying on public transportation.
This is where the advantages of credit cards really make a difference. Depending on the card, you could earn points or cashback that can be used to help cover some of your expenses—so don’t shy away from using them if it’s a great deal.
With decades of experience in hand, we provide customized guidance, cutting through the confusion with clear explanations and actionable tips. We’ll help you create the best experience, with recommendations and travel planning advice based on the trip you want to have and the memories you want to make.
As travel agents with Mickey World Travel, we at Seconds to Go can take the fuss out of a Disney World vacation. Request your free Disney World vacation quote today or email ka******@mi***************.com!
Click here to be taken to our quote request form.
Team Up
If you’re traveling with friends or family, consider splitting up costs whenever possible. You can share the cost of accommodations and meals. You’ll be surprised at how much money this can actually save you. Plus, when you’re with a group, the fun multiplies!
Linking up with other Disney fans is another great way to save money and maximize your enjoyment of a Disney World trip.
Be Savvy with Souvenirs
When it comes to buying souvenirs, keep in mind that Disney World is filled with little shops and stands offering a wide variety of trinkets and goodies. While it’s definitely tempting to get a little something for everyone (and a lot of somethings for yourself), try to be mindful of your budget.
If you must bring something home, opt for smaller items like keychains and postcards instead of plush toys or expensive mugs. There are plenty of affordable souvenirs out there that won’t break the bank!
Putting It all Together
Making the trip down to Disney World is an adventure like no other—but with a little savvy planning, you can make sure it’s one that you’ll remember for all the right reasons. With a list of must-dos, resourceful budgeting and some teamwork with your travel group, you can make sure that every dollar spent is well worth it.
Lastly, don’t forget to take it all in! Have your camera ready to capture those once-in-a-lifetime memories! Disney World isn’t just about the money—it’s about the memories and the magical moments. So, focus on those, and you’ll be sure to have a blast without endangering your financial health.
