A trip to Disneyland is a dream come true for many, but the cost can sometimes feel more like a nightmare. While anything Disney isn’t known for being inexpensive, there are plenty of ways to minimize the expense and still enjoy all the magic the parks have to offer. With a little planning and these smart strategies, you can save money without compromising your experience. Here’s how:
- Stay Further Away from the Parks
While staying at one of Disneyland’s three on-property hotels (Pixar Pier, Grand Californian, Disneyland Hotel) is the premium experience, it comes with a premium price tag. Instead, consider staying a bit further from the parks. Many hotels located a mile or more away offer shuttles for a nominal per-person, daily fee. You’ll save on accommodation costs and still have easy access to the parks.
- Get a Disney Visa Card
Having a Disney Visa card can give you small discounts on certain in-park dining options, typically around 10%. While this might not seem like a lot, those savings can add up, especially on a multi-day trip.
- Find a Hotel with Breakfast Included
One of the easiest ways to save money on food is by choosing a hotel that includes breakfast. This way, you can start your day with a hearty meal without spending extra cash, leaving you more budget for the rest of the day’s treats.
- Buy Discounted Disney Gift Cards
Before your trip, keep an eye out for discounted Disney gift cards at Sam’s Club or Costco. The savings might not be huge, but every little bit helps when planning a Disney vacation.
- Travel Off-Peak and During Discounts
Disneyland is more expensive during peak seasons. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, plan your visit during the off-peak times when Disney often offers discounts, especially on children’s tickets. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds.
- Stock Up on Snacks and Lunch Items
Consider using Instacart or taking a short walk to a nearby store to stock up on snacks and easy-to-carry lunch items. Bringing your own food into the parks can save you a considerable amount of money, and you can also pack items from home in your suitcase.
- Bring Empty Water Bottles
Instead of buying expensive drinks at the park, bring empty water bottles to refill throughout the day. There are plenty of water fountains and refill stations around the parks to keep you hydrated for free.
- Set Spending Limits with Disney Gift Cards
To prevent overspending, give each family member a Disney gift card with a set amount of spending money. This helps everyone stay within budget and makes those special purchases feel even more thoughtful.
- Check Amazon for Souvenirs
Before you buy that pricey souvenir in the park, check Amazon. You might find the same item for less, and you can have it shipped directly to your home. This is especially useful for toys and costumes.
- Purchase Costumes and Ears Ahead of Time
Rather than buying costumes and Mickey ears at the park, which can be quite expensive, order them ahead of time from places like Etsy or Amazon. You’ll have them ready to go when you arrive, and you’ll save a lot of money in the process.
- Encourage Saving for Special Souvenirs
If your kids have their hearts set on a Star Wars lightsaber or building a robot, encourage them to save up for these special souvenirs before your trip. This way, they’ll be prepared to spend their money on something truly meaningful to them.
Things Always Worth the Expense
– PhotoPass: After capturing all your magical moments on camera, buying the PhotoPass is always worth the expense. It’s a wonderful way to ensure you have high-quality memories to look back on, and it’s a purchase I never regret.
With these tips, you can make the most of your Disneyland trip without overspending. Happy travels, and may your visit to the Happiest Place on Earth be filled with joy and a little extra savings!
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