Heading to Disney and on a budget? Not a problem. I’ve got a few tips and tricks this month that will help your dollar stretch a little farther so you can splurge on the Rose Gold Minnie Mouse Ears you’ve been eyeing.
1. Get a kid’s meal instead of an adult one at the quick service restaurants. Not only are the kid’s meals inexpensive, but they also provide just enough food so that you won’t have leftovers that you either have to throw away or figure out where to store them on your next ride. Plus, it never hurts leaving a little room for a Dole Whip.
2. Bring your own snacks and even lunch into the park. Disney permits a small cooler, no larger than 24” X 15” X 18” which is perfect for some PB and J sandwiches. Other items like apples and trail mix also travel really well without the use of a cooler.
3. Bring a refillable water bottle. All of the restaurants have free water and some of the water fountains are now even equipped to fit the larger sports bottles for easier refills.
4. Buy souvenirs ahead of time. Glow necklaces and other toys are a huge hit after the sun goes down at the parks. Hit up the Target Dollar Spot or Dollar Tree before your trip to get a multi-pack of the neon necklaces for a fraction of the price. If you are going to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, both Wal-Mart and Five Below have the Christmas light necklaces for less than $5.
5. Annual Pass Discount. If you have an annual pass, you get between 10-20% off at various restaurants and stores in the parks. In addition, grab snacks or drinks from the gift shops because your discount will apply to those items as well. But make sure and ask if the vendor offers the pass-holder discount, as often they won’t initiate that discount conversation.
6. Tables in Wonderland Card. If you frequent Disney and love to eat, this card might be a good purchase for you. This card is eligible for purchase if you are a Florida resident, have an annual pass, or are a Disney Vacation Club Owner. For either $150 or $175 depending on your membership type, you can use this dining discount card for 20% off your check for up to 10 guests at over 100 restaurants at WDW. This includes food courts at the resorts and a large number of table service restaurants in the park, like Be our Guest and Le Cellier Steakhouse. Note that this card is not compatible with the dining plan.
Contact your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist or check out some of the other blogs for some tips and tricks to navigate your way around Disney on a budget!
