Money, Money, Money

I'm so excited for you! You've decided to organize a trip to Disney with your loved ones. You've started collecting information, but after seeing the different expenses, you're reconsidering. This situation is common, not just with Disney, but with any travel planning. Trips can become costly quickly, which can be overwhelming! Let's discuss budgeting for your Disney trip and how to make it as cost-effective as possible for you.

Before organizing my next trip, I always reflect on a few essential questions. These questions assist me in determining how much to budget for traveling to Disney and for expenses while I'm there. The questions focus on the aspects of time, location, and importance. Allow me to explain further.

Time: What time of year am I aiming to go?

The initial step in budgeting for a Disney trip is choosing your travel dates. Although Disney ticket prices have generally risen, visiting during peak seasons is even more expensive. Traveling during holiday weekends, major holidays from Halloween to New Year's Day, or during spring breaks often results in higher costs, as Disney capitalizes on these popular times. The price increases affect not only tickets but also accommodations on the property. Prices are typically more "normal" right after the holiday season, during the weeks between spring breaks and Memorial Day, and at the end of summer or early fall before the holiday season fully begins. I call these periods Disney's "slow times", even though there is never truly an off-season for them. Think of it this way: there's always an upcoming event, whether it's a long weekend, school vacation, or holiday. The time leading up to the next major event is usually an ideal time to visit Disney, as it's likely to be less crowded with people waiting for the holidays or other significant times of the year.

Location: Where do I want to stay?

This question holds extreme importance because it leads to other related counter-thoughts. How crucial is it for us to remain on the property? Do we want to enjoy quality time at the hotel, or do we prefer to be in the park throughout the day? Deciding on the type of trip experience you desire will aid in assessing how much you should budget.

The debate between staying on-property versus off-property is ongoing when planning a Disney trip. Personally, I always opt for on-property accommodations. There are numerous advantages, with the primary one being that I find it more cost-effective to stay within Disney property. The only car-related expense is the trip from the airport to the hotel, and services like Uber or Lyft are the most affordable for this. Once you're at the resort, reliable shuttles are available to transport you to the parks and to Disney Springs. Some hotels even provide additional transportation options like the FriendShip Boats, the Monorail, and the Skyliner, all included with your stay. This means there's no need to rent a car, worry about gas, or pay daily parking fees. Although Disney hotels might be slightly more expensive than some off-property options, I believe that avoiding car rentals and parking fees ultimately results in significant savings.

Deciding whether to stay on or off the property is just the first choice. The next step is determining the type of experience you want. My husband and I visit Disney frequently, and each trip is unique. Most of the time, we prefer being in the parks to enjoy the magic directly. However, during longer stays, we sometimes sleep in or end the day early, so we choose accommodations with more amenities like restaurants, bigger pools, and bars. Disney hotels are categorized into three levels. First, the Value Resorts are the most budget-friendly and ideal if your main focus is the parks. Second, the Moderate Resorts offer a bit more on-site amenities and are priced slightly higher, providing a good balance between park visits and relaxation. The highest tier is the Deluxe Resorts, which are the most expensive due to their extensive offerings, making them the best choice for those planning to spend significant time at the hotel. I will provide a more detailed breakdown of the hotels in another post, as this serves as a basic overview when talking budget.

Importance: What is most important to me?

This final step is about identifying which aspects of your trip matter most. Is it the dining experiences? Is it getting on every ride? Is it making sure you visit all the parks? Understanding the layout of your trip in this way is crucial, as it helps you plan your daily budget. If dining experiences are a priority for you, dining plans can range from $50 to $100 per person daily, based on your preferences. However, if a dining plan doesn't fit your budget, don't worry! You can still enjoy excellent dining without one. Sit-down restaurants can be cost-effective, and quick-service meals are fantastic alternatives. The best part is that you have the flexibility to decide your budget! If meals aren't a top priority, you can bring your own snacks. If riding every attraction is important, consider investing in Lightning Lane passes. If visiting every park is your priority and you're not staying for an extended period, consider park hopper tickets instead of single park per day tickets. You get the idea! Tailor your plans to your needs. Identifying what matters most to you and your travel companions will give you a clear idea of how to budget effectively for your ideal trip.

Time to Book!

Over the years, sticking to these steps has been beyond valuable for me when budgeting, as each trip can be unique. Taking the time to consider each component individually also helps alleviate any overwhelming feelings by breaking it down into manageable parts. Ultimately, booking any vacation is an investment in your personal time and in the memories you create with loved ones. You want to ensure that you are investing in a vacation that you are happy with and feel comfortable spending your money on. I hope your upcoming trip to Main Street is magical!