Saving Hundreds on My Disney Vacation: Disney Trip Savings

As a Disney fan, I know how expensive it can be to plan a Disney vacation. However, I have learned how to save hundreds of dollars on my trips to Walt Disney World. By following some simple tips and tricks, I have been able to enjoy all the magic that Disney has to offer without breaking the bank.

Understand Disney Vacation Dynamics

If I tell you that your Disney vacation will cost $2,000, what does that mean? Like what does it include, everything?

It’s important to understand what you plan on spending money on. Right?

Main Budget Items:

• Hotel
•  Park Tickets
•  Transportation
•  Meals
•  Souvenirs

When it comes to your Hotel + Park Tickets, you have two options: you can use a Disney travel agent, or you can self-book.

My favorite self-book tool is GetAwayToday because it’s still a package, but you can also book offsite hotels.

Buy Discounted Disney Gift Cards

I have an entire post dedicated to these strategies, so make sure to take a look at them.  Disney Gift Card Deals.

Find Ways To Save Everywhere Else

If you make cuts elsewhere, money can be used towards your Disney vacation. I know we are all so busy, so I want to make this as easy as possible. A solution anyone can use.

Cancel Unnecessary or Unused Subscriptions

Did you know that canceling unnecessary or unused subscriptions can be a smart way to save money?

Sometimes we sign up for subscription services without realizing how quickly the costs can add up, but by taking the time to review your subscriptions and canceling those that you no longer need, you can free up extra cash each month.

To start, take a look at your credit card statements and bank account transactions to identify any recurring charges for subscription services.

Make a list of each subscription and the amount you pay each month. Then, consider each subscription to determine if it’s truly necessary or if you can live without it.

Think about canceling subscriptions for services that you rarely use, such as streaming services or gym memberships. You may also be able to save money by downgrading to a lower-tier subscription plan or by negotiating with the provider for a lower rate.

When it comes to canceling subscriptions, make sure to check the cancellation terms and follow the provider’s instructions carefully. Some services may require you to cancel a certain number of days before the billing date, while others may require you to cancel by phone or email.

By canceling unnecessary or unused subscriptions, you can reduce your monthly expenses and free up extra cash for other important priorities.

It’s a great way to take control of your finances and make sure you’re spending money only on the services that you truly need and enjoy.

Reduce Insurance Premiums

Reducing insurance premiums is a goal that many people have.

It’s extremely important to shop around for insurance providers and compare rates every few years. Your current premium will only go up.

Different companies may offer different premiums for the same coverage, so it’s worth taking the time to research and find the best deal.

One way to achieve this is by maintaining a good driving record. Insurance companies often offer lower premiums to drivers who have not been involved in accidents or received traffic violations.

Another way to reduce insurance premiums is by increasing your deductible. This means that you would pay more out of pocket in case of a claim, but your monthly premiums would be lower in exchange.

It’s also important to shop around for insurance providers and compare rates. Different companies may offer different premiums for the same coverage, so it’s worth taking the time to research and find the best deal.

Finally, consider bundling your insurance policies. Many companies offer discounts for customers who have multiple policies, such as auto and home insurance. This can result in significant savings on your monthly premiums.

Use Raise.com For Every Single Thing You Can Think Of

Have you ever heard of Raise.com? It’s a website that allows you to buy and sell gift cards at a discounted price.

By using Raise.com, you can save money on gift cards for your favorite stores and restaurants. To get started, simply create an account on the website and browse through the available gift cards.

You can search by store name, category, or discount amount to find the best deals. Once you find a gift card that you want to purchase, add it to your cart and proceed to checkout. 87

One of the great things about Raise.com is that they guarantee the gift cards they sell. This means that if you receive a gift card that doesn’t work or has less value than advertised, they will refund your purchase price.

So, you can shop confidently, knowing you’re getting a good deal.

In addition to buying gift cards, you can also sell your unwanted gift cards on Raise.com. Simply enter the card information and determine the selling price.

Once your card sells, you’ll receive payment via check, PayPal, or direct deposit. Overall, raise.com is a great way to save money on gift cards and make some extra cash by selling unwanted cards.

It’s a smart financial strategy that can help you stretch your dollars further and stay within your budget.

Examples:

• Ordering DoorDash, get a discounted gift card.
•  Heading to Target, get a discounted gift card.
•  Movie night? Well, you get the point.

Skip Park Hopper

While many people choose to add the Park Hopper option to their Disney tickets, I don’t ever suggest it.

It’s better to take your time and fully immerse yourself in each park, making park hopper not necessary.

Additionally, if you are on a tight budget, the extra cost of park hopper may not be worth it. It’s important to consider your own preferences and budget when deciding whether or not to add Park Hopper to your Disney tickets.

Looking for the best place to get tickets when going to Disney on budget? 

Get Groceries!!

One way to save money while at Disney World is to buy groceries instead of eating every meal at the park.

There are grocery stores nearby where you can stock up on snacks, breakfast items, and even lunch ingredients. This way, you can have a few meals at your hotel or rental property and save money on food costs.

Plus, it can be a nice break from the crowds and chaos of the park.

You can also get groceries delivered to your Disney hotel room via Instacart.

Use Disney Gift Cards

Save money for your Disney vacation by buying Disney gift cards at regular intervals.

This can help you budget and spread out the cost of your trip over time. You can use the gift cards to pay for everything from park tickets to meals and souvenirs.

Plus, many retailers offer discounts on gift cards, so you can save even more money. Just be sure to keep track of your gift cards and use them before they expire.

You can also combine your Disney gift cards before your trip.

Choose The Best Accommodations Wisely

Mentioning this again, just more in detail.

When planning a Disney World vacation, one of the big decisions you’ll need to make is whether to stay onsite at a Disney resort or offsite at a hotel or rental property.

Each option has pros and cons, so it depends on your priorities and budget.

Staying onsite at a Disney resort can be convenient, as you’ll be closer to the parks and have easy access to Disney transportation. You can also take advantage of early park admission and other perks, such as free transportation to and from the airport.

However, these benefits come at a cost, as Disney resorts can be quite expensive.

On the other hand, staying offsite can be more affordable and give you more flexibility in terms of lodging options. You can choose from a wide range of hotels, vacation rentals, and other accommodations, and often save money by cooking meals in a kitchen or taking advantage of free breakfast.

However, you’ll need to factor in the cost and time of transportation to and from the parks and may miss out on some of the Disney magic by not staying onsite.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to stay onsite or offsite at Disney World comes down to your personal preferences and budget.

Consider your budget and what’s most important to you in terms of convenience, amenities, and price, and choose the option that makes the most sense for your family.

Check out the newly updated Disney on a Budget ebook!

One of the most significant Disney Trip Savings hacks is staying at an off-site hotel.

Not only are these hotels often less expensive than Disney’s own resorts, but they also offer a variety of amenities that can help you save money. For example, many off-site hotels offer free breakfast, which can save you a lot of money on food costs.

Just this past month, I stayed at a Wyndham for $40 using Super.com.

Use Google Fights

Planning a Disney vacation can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding the best flight deals.

Luckily, Google Flights is here to help! This amazing tool is the best way to find the most affordable flights to your Disney destination.

With Google Flights, you can easily compare prices across different airlines and filter your search results based on your preferences. This means that you can find the cheapest dates to travel and the best flight options for your specific needs.

Whether you are looking for a direct flight or a longer layover, Google Flights has got you covered. With its accurate information and user-friendly interface, you can be sure that you are getting the best deal possible.

It will even tell you if you are getting the best price for the flight!

Plan your Disney Vacation Based on Flight Prices

It’s important to consider flight prices as they can greatly impact your overall budget. One helpful tool for finding the best flight deals is Google Flights as I mentioned.

If your dates are flexible, use cheap flights to choose your vacation dates. It’s a great way to chop your budget greatly.

In addition, cheap flights usually mean the down season, which can mean a ton of Disney trip savings.

Relax

Not every day has to be spent at the parks. Incorporating resort pool days and exploring Disney Springs can provide a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the parks.

Plus, it can also be a great way to save some money while still enjoying all that Disney has to offer. Consider adding these activities to your vacation agenda and see how it can enhance your overall experience.

Dining Tricks

Save money while dining at a restaurant by looking for specials or deals. Many restaurants offer happy hour specials or early bird discounts, so be sure to check the restaurant’s website or ask your server for any current promotions.

Another way to save is to share entrees or appetizers with your family. This not only saves money but also allows you to try a variety of dishes.

Lastly, consider bringing your own beverages or ordering water instead of expensive drinks. These small changes can add up and help you stick to your budget while still enjoying a delicious Disney meal.

There are many ways to enjoy eating out with your family while also being mindful of your budget.

Consider ordering a kid’s meal instead of an entrée or splitting an entrée between adults. You can also choose to order an appetizer as your main dish.

Bring your Own Food and Drinks

When planning a day out at the park, it’s always a good idea to bring your own food and drinks. Not only is it a more affordable option, but it can also be healthier and more convenient.

Bring Refillable Water Bottles

Don’t forget to bring your refillable water bottles when visiting Disney World. This can save you a lot of money and help reduce waste. Plus, there are plenty of water fountains and hydration stations throughout the park where you can refill your bottles. So, stay hydrated and save some cash while you’re at it!

Take Advantage of Authorized Disney Reseller Deals

If you’re looking to plan a Disney vacation on a budget, one of the best tools available to you is GetAwayToday.com. This website is a great resource for finding deals on everything from park tickets to hotel rooms, making it an essential tool for anyone who wants to save money on their next Disney trip.

One of the biggest advantages of using GetAwayToday.com is that it offers a wide variety of packages that can help you save money on your trip.

In addition to offering discounted packages, GetAwayToday.com also has a Best Price Guarantee, which means that if you find a lower price on the same package elsewhere, they’ll match it.

For Disney Trip Savings, Stay at a Hotel with Complimentary Breakfast

By choosing a hotel that offers a complimentary breakfast, you’ll be able to start your day with a full stomach without having to spend extra money on breakfast elsewhere. This can make a significant difference, especially if you’re traveling with a family or a large group.

Not only will you save money on breakfast, but you’ll also have the opportunity to grab some extra food to take with you to the park. Packing some snacks for your day at Disney can save you from buying expensive snacks and meals while you’re there.

In addition to saving money, staying at a hotel with a complimentary breakfast can also save you time and hassle. You won’t have to worry about finding a place to eat in the morning, and you can get an early start on your day at the park.

Purchase Disney Merchandise Ahead of Time

(from discount stores like TJ Maxx or Marshalls.)

Disney trip savings can be achieved by purchasing Disney merchandise ahead of time. By doing so, you’ll avoid the temptation of buying expensive souvenirs while you’re at the park.

Plus, you can often find deals and discounts online or at local stores. So, try to plan ahead and get your Disney gear before you arrive. Your wallet will thank you!

Bring Your Own Stroller or Rent From an Off-Site Provider

When traveling with children, one of the things that you need to consider is the stroller. While many rental companies offer strollers for a fee, this can quickly add up and become an unnecessary expense. One way to save money on stroller rental fees is to bring your own stroller.

By doing so, you not only save money but also ensure that your child is comfortable in a familiar stroller.

However, if you don’t want to travel with your stroller, you can rent from an off-site provider. This can also help you save money, as off-site providers often offer strollers at a lower rate than the park charges.

Use a Refillable Popcorn Bucket

Using a refillable popcorn bucket is a smart way to save on snack costs during your Disney trip. Disney is known for its delicious snacks and treats, but they can get pretty pricey, especially if you’re buying them all day long.

By purchasing a refillable popcorn bucket, you can enjoy unlimited refills of popcorn throughout your visit for a relatively low price.

Plus, the bucket makes for a great souvenir that you can take home with you. So, next time you’re planning a trip to Disney, consider investing in a refillable popcorn bucket to keep both your stomach and wallet full.

Disney Trip Savings For Families with Young Children

Are you planning a family trip to Disney but worried about the costs? If you have young children, it’s certainly an exciting adventure, but it can also be overwhelming to think about the expenses that come with it.

However, with a bit of planning and some smart saving strategies, a Disney trip can be a budget-friendly and unforgettable experience for the whole family.

My biggest tip when planning your Disney trip is the age of your children. At Disney World, children under 3 are free, and children 10 and over are charged as adults. In addition, most airlines allow children fly for free under the age of two to fly for three.

If you have young children, both free Disney admission and no flight cost are huge. As a parent of a young child, I can attest that this is very impactful.

Another tip, that has nothing to do with Disney trip savings, that will go a long way is to choose a hotel that is convenient to go back and forth from. As we know, small children take a lot of naps, and sometimes, as parents, we need a second to compose ourselves in the room.

Disney Trip Savings: Using My Trip As An Example

I always say the first thing to do when trying to save on a Disney vacation is to map out your stay. Activities, food, everything

First, I am going to focus on food.

Even with the cheapest Disney Dining Plan, I’d be spending well over $500, which is not in the budget. 

Here’s what’s happening:

Breakfast

This meal will be eaten in the room, thanks to the mini-fridge and coffee maker in the room. We will spend about $60 on groceries, which will include breakfast items, coffee, water, and snacks.

Lunch 

Day 1 – Earl of Sandwich at Disney Springs $55

$14.99 and under/adult

Disney trip savings: Signing up for the Earl of Sandwich eClub to get them coupons for a free sandwich.

Day 2 – Chicken Guy at Disney Springs $55

$14.99 and under/adult

Day 3 – Casey’s Corner at Magic Kingdom $60

$14.99 and under/adult

Dinner

Day 1 -Pizza Delivery $50

I usually use Flippers and will order via DoorDash. I will try to get a discounted DoorDash gift card for about 10% off using Raise.com

Day 2 – Leftovers from Dinner (Pizza delivery) Free

Day 3 – Les Halles Boulangerie at Epcot $60

Total $340  

For my hotel stay…

I created a package using GetAwayToday, with a stay at one of the Disney Springs hotels and 2-day park tickets for a little under $1,300.

Vacation Total: $1,631

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Now let’s take a look at what this same package looks like via Disney, with a Disney value resort stay and the Disney dining plan. Do these Disney trip savings actually work?

This is why these Disney trip savings hacks work.

Vacation Total: $2,005

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