Expert tips for avoiding going into debt for a Disney trip

For many families, there is nothing better than a vacation to Walt Disney World. From special moments meeting Mickey Mouse to crazy tea parties, there’s a reason it’s called “The Most Magical Place on Earth.”

I have been visiting my family regularly for over thirty years and I am not immune to that intangible feeling of magic that draws me back again and again.

But as expenses increase, those memories take a toll. Some families even go into debt to go on vacation to Disney.

The cost of a Disney trip keeps rising

A survey from LendingTree shows that many parents are going into debt; cheerfully——Give children an elf-like experience.

The survey shows that 77% of parents whose children under 18 have been to Disneyland, 45% have gone into debt as a result of their Disney trip. Eighty-three percent said the debt was incurred within the past five years.

What’s more, 59% said they had zero regrets about the decision. For many, the memory of Minnie’s first hug or a coveted family photo is clearly worth it.

However, costs only keep rising.

“Everything from park admission to snacks is more expensive,” shared theme park journalist and expert Megan duBois.

The first (and biggest) expense to tackle when booking a vacation will be park admission and hotels. For example, a weeklong fall vacation package for a family of four, including an overnight stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa and theme park tickets, costs more than $10,000. Of course, the cost may be more or less, depending on what and where you book.

And that doesn’t include food. Sixty-five percent of Disney guests surveyed by LendingTree said food and drink prices in the park exceeded their expectations.

“Meal costs have also increased, and some Disney restaurants, such as Be Our Guest, have switched from a la carte to fixed-price meals, thereby increasing the overall cost of meals,” attractions magazinecovering major theme parks and attractions.

“Another sneaky expense is snacks at the park,” Roseboom adds. “Disney has so many adorable cupcakes, specialty drinks and limited-time treats that it’s hard to resist.”

Dubois noted that annoying unexpected expenses also need to be factored into the budget, such as tips for valet parking and tips for last-minute activities like mini golf.

Disney’s expedited line service will also further increase costs. If your kids want to enjoy Peter Pan’s Flight or Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, skipping the line is certainly valuable and reassuring. But a Lightning Lane multi-pass can get a family a weeklong vacation for hundreds of dollars.

“Disney’s Lightning Lane Multi-Pass is something many vacationers may not expect,” Roseboom said. Single pass.

Additionally, free services such as FastPass, a virtual queuing system that allows guests to skip waiting in line, were replaced by paid services in 2021.

How to save money on a Disney trip

The good news is, there are ways to cut corners and save money. First, try to book your family trip during a non-peak season when prices are higher, such as during the holidays. Then look at your options.

Take advantage of free events

Disney has so much to do besides the theme parks, which means you can save even more by skipping a park ticket every day of your vacation. Disney Springs is a large entertainment and dining complex that’s free to visit and features shops, chef-led concepts and shopping.

All guests are welcome to visit any Disney resort, which is a fun experience in itself. Explore the tropical ambience of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or the grandeur of the iconic Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, where you’ll travel in style aboard the monorail.

Additionally, at Disney hotels you’ll find some of the best dining options and the same hugely detailed theming found in the parks.

Find ways to save food

Snacks like the popular Dole Whips and adorable Mickey Pretzels can easily add up, but there’s a way to save.

“My best tip for cutting costs is to book a hotel room with a kitchen or kitchenette, either at Disney or outside the hotel,” DuBois shared. “While they may be slightly more expensive than a regular hotel room, the ability to cook your own meals Always cheaper than buying every meal at a theme park. ”

The restaurant also offers grocery delivery. But if you want to dine at a restaurant, Rosbaugh recommends avoiding expensive restaurants that don’t offer a la carte options.

Consider all your hotel options

“There are many hotels just a few miles from Walt Disney World that may offer larger rooms and services like breakfast or even dinner for less than the price of a stay at a Disney resort,” Roseboom said. “Just make sure they also offer access to the parks. Free transportation so you don’t have to pay extra for parking or ridesharing.”

Disney Springs Resort hotels, such as the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando, are a great way to save money. Prices are competitive and offer useful perks such as free shuttle bus. Additionally, these hotels are within walking distance of Disney Springs.

Another great option is the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphinarium, just steps away from Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Marriott Bonvoy members also enjoy benefits. I’ve lived there for decades and it’s home to some of my favorite restaurants and one of the best pool complexes in Orlando.

Buy your tickets wisely

With some strategy and research, it may be possible to avoid purchasing expensive ticket add-ons.

“To avoid Lightning Alley fees, choose an attraction on the Lightning Alley one-way pass and go to that attraction first thing in the morning before the lines get long,” Roseboom shared.

And always pay attention to the ticket discounts Disney launches from time to time.