Visiting Disney is a dream for many families. In 2023, more than 17.7 million people visited the Magic Kingdom (Walt Disney World) in the USA, making it the most popular amusement park in the world. But without careful planning, the costs can skyrocket. From overpriced meals to unnecessary purchases, it’s easy to overspend. However, a Disney vacation doesn’t have to be a financial drain.
We have reviewed various online forums to create a list of 12 costly mistakes you should avoid on your next trip to Disney.
Not Planning Ahead
Failing to plan is one of the most common and costly mistakes when visiting Disney. When you plan a trip, you get better deals on everything from flights to park tickets and accommodations. Last-minute bookings often have a hefty price tag, particularly during peak travel times. If you book flights about 21 to 74 days in advance, you can maximize savings on airfare. Additionally, off-site hotels often have lower rates for early bookings.
Skipping Discounted Tickets
Disney offers various discounts, which many overlook, resulting in unnecessarily high expenses. Military personnel, AAA members, and Florida residents, among others, can take advantage of discounted ticket prices.
Additionally, purchasing tickets directly from Disney may not be the most cost-effective option. Disney offers 4-day Park Hopper tickets for as low as $349 to military members, a significant discount compared to standard prices.
Overlooking Free Activities
Many visitors often overlook the array of free opportunities to have fun at Disney, opting instead for paid experiences that can quickly add up in cost. Shows like the “Festival of Fantasy Parade” at Magic Kingdom or the nightly “Happily Ever After” fireworks display are must-see experiences that cost nothing extra. Taking advantage of these free offerings significantly reduces your overall expenses.
Purchasing Park Hopper Passes Unnecessarily
The Park Hopper option lets you visit multiple Disney parks daily but costs $65 per ticket. While flexibility might seem like a good idea, many visitors don’t use the Park Hopper option as much as anticipated. With single-park tickets, you can save a significant amount of money. The savings can be redirected toward other experiences, such as dining or special events, that enhance your overall Disney experience.
Buying Souvenirs in the Parks
Souvenirs are quintessential to any Disney trip, but buying them inside the parks can be costly. Disney merchandise is notoriously expensive, and many items can be purchased for less outside the parks or online. Popular souvenirs like Mickey Mouse ear hats can cost around $30 inside the parks. Similar items can be found online or at nearby stores for a fraction of the price. You can save considerably by purchasing souvenirs before your trip or off-site.
Eating All Meals in the Parks
Dining inside Disney parks can be one of the most significant expenses of your trip. If you’re a family of four, you can dine at the Disney eateries for around $200 to $300 daily. One of the easiest ways to save money is by eating breakfast outside the parks. Disney allows guests to bring their snacks and drinks into the parks. Additionally, many off-site restaurants offer discounts or coupons that increase your savings.
Ignoring Off-Peak Times
Traveling during peak seasons, such as summer, spring break, and major holidays, is a common mistake that leads to significantly higher costs for everything from accommodations to park tickets. Visiting Disneyland during off-peak seasons — typically mid-January through February and September through mid-November minimizes expenditure. Beyond the financial savings, off-peak times mean fewer crowds, allowing you to maximize your time in the parks.
Not Using a Budgeting App
With so many opportunities to spend on your Disney trip, it’s easy to lose track of how much you’re spending. Using a budgeting app can help you manage your finances and avoid overspending. On average, people who leverage budgeting apps save $600 each month. This is because budgeting apps help you avoid impulse purchases and make informed spending decisions, ensuring your money is spent wisely throughout your trip.
Not Carrying Refillable Water Bottles
Remember to stay hydrated during a Disney trip, especially in Florida’s heat. However, buying bottled water in the parks can quickly spike your costs, with each bottle costing as much as $5. It would help if you carried refillable water bottles to Disney since the parks have numerous water fountains and refill stations to fill your water bottle for free quickly. Having a water bottle on hand ensures that you can easily stay hydrated throughout the day.
Underestimating Travel Insurance
Travel insurance may seem unnecessary, but it can help you if something goes wrong during the trip. Whether it’s a medical emergency, trip cancellation, or lost luggage, travel insurance can help mitigate unexpected costs and protect your investment. Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse up to 150% of your total trip cost if your vacation is canceled for a covered reason, such as a medical emergency. Knowing you’re covered in an emergency will make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.
Not Using Disney Gift Cards
Disney gift cards can be valuable for managing expenses and saving money on your trip. Many retailers, such as Costco, Target, and Sam’s Club, offer Disney gift cards at a discount, allowing you to save 5-10% on all your Disney-related purchases. By buying Disney gift cards at a discount, you can save on park tickets, dining, souvenirs, and other unique experiences. Look out for special promotions where you can earn additional savings or rewards by purchasing Disney gift cards.
Paying Full Price for Photos
Disney’s PhotoPass service allows you to capture professional photos throughout the parks, but it comes at a cost. Each photo can cost around $15, and purchasing the complete Memory Maker package can be even more expensive. However, one of the simplest ways to save money on photos is to use your camera or smartphone. Moreover, Disney cast members are usually happy to take pictures of your group using your device at no extra charge.
