One of the most common Disney World misconceptions is cost. People often say, “Disney is too expensive.” But it doesn’t have to be that way!  Here are 7 budget hacks to save money on your Disney World Vacation

Be Smarter with Souvenirs

Cut down on impulse buys in the parks by bringing affordable versions of Disney souvenirs with you. Items such as bubble wands, Mickey ears, and toys can be purchased at home. Surprise the kids with them throughout your trip! Alternatively, Disney gift cards make great gifts for birthdays and holidays leading up to a trip.

Become a Disney Visa Cardholder

The Disney Visa offers reward dollars on all purchases. You can then use these rewards toward purchases at most Disney World locations, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment. You can also take advantage of discounts at park retail locations and exclusive character meet-and-greet opportunities. Any payments toward your vacation package with the card are interest-free for six months.

**Fairytale Journeys is not an affiliate of Disney Visa, nor do we earn any incentives from our clients signing up as card holders.

Take Advantage of Store Reward Programs

Many stores offer cash back or discounts on gift card purchases. You can use Disney gift cards to make payments on your vacation balance. Target Redcard holders earn 5% back on gift card purchases. Shopping clubs like Sam’s Club and BJ’s sell gift cards for a discount. When you purchase gift cards from grocery stores like Giant Eagle or Kroger, you can earn cents off every gallon of gas. You can also stack savings when you buy gift cards with your credit card, many of which offer cash back on purchases.

Use a Payment Plan

The deposit to secure your Disney vacation package is only $200. After that, you can make payments at intervals and amounts convenient for you. Breaking up the total into installments, it can help build the price of your vacation into your monthly budget. Discuss a payment plan with your Travel Advisor and they will take care of the payments for you!

Add the Disney Dining Plan to Your Package

Disney has announced that dining plans will return in 2023. There are so many reasons to love the dining plan! The cost per meal is objectively less than purchasing food a la carte. When you have prepaid, there is less stress over budgeting. Each member of the travel party also receives a refillable mug that can be used for free refills of coffee, tea, and fountain beverages at your resort for the length of your stay, saving you money on beverages.

Save On In-Park Snack Purchases

One of the easiest ways to save money at Disney World is to bring your own snacks or have breakfast items delivered to your resort. Grabbing a yogurt, smoothie, or granola bar from your room before heading out for Rope Drop can save both time and money. Disney allows outside food and non-alcoholic beverages in the parks, so pack a few snacks and refillable water bottles to avoid unnecessary purchases. And of course—save room in your budget for at least one iconic Mickey-shaped snack during your trip!

Why Book with a Platinum Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

Disney offers new deals throughout the year on Disney World vacation packages, resorts, and Disney Cruise Line sailings. When you book with Fairytale Journeys Travel, your Disney Travel Agent will:

• Monitor Disney discounts and apply eligible savings

• Wake up early on offer-release days to secure limited availability

• Customize your resort, dining, and park-day plans

• Create stress-free itineraries tailored to your family

• Help with Lightning Lane strategies and time-saving tips

If you’re not already working with a Fairytale Journeys Disney Vacation Planner, we’d love to help you plan your next magical vacation.