Save a Dime (or Two) at Disney
by MMM Tara Jones
Going to Disney? Then you already know you will be spending a pretty penny for your memorable vacation, and it’s well worth every cent. But besides resort and park tickets, Disney doesn’t have to cost a lot. If you are interested in saving a few bucks, read on for some smart money-saving tips at the Happiest Place on Earth!
Autograph Books
These little babies can cost anywhere from $10 to $30. Multiply that by the # of kids you have and it can be a small fortune. Making your own books is an economical way to bring home a unique souvenir that doesn’t look mass-produced. Involve your kids in the process (ie, depending on their ages, their help can range from choosing stickers, themes, and designs to making the entire book themselves). Supplies are easy to find at local craft stores or craft departments at big box discount stores. . All you need is a spiral-bound journal or photo album, (I recommend spiral so the pages don’t fall out) scrapbook paper in the desired color/design, stickers, and a permanent pen (or letter stickers), and Voila! An autograph book as unique as your child!
Handy hint: Bring along a clickable sharpie for those autographs. They write smoothly and are easier to grip for characters with big paws or gloves!
Groceries/Food
Orlando has several grocery delivery companies, and, while they’re a bit more than going to the store yourself (if you have a car), the slight mark up is insignificant compared to the time and energy saved. I mean, they’re delivered to your resort room, waiting for you to enjoy! And you can order everything from eggs to organic chicken to cereal and milk. Deli meats, cheeses, and bakery-fresh breads are a great bag lunch option for a day in the parks, or even for the flight home! Unless you’re using Disney’s Deluxe Dining plan or higher, you will probably need that 3rd meal or snack at least sometimes, and you will save big by bringing your own snacks and drinks into the parks or eating breakfast in your room. (www.gardengrocer.com, www.orlandogroceryexpress.com are just a couple of options).
Souvenirs
On many rides in Disney parks, you exit into or near a gift shop (think Pirates of the Caribbean). Disney’s marketing geniuses know this is a great way to get you to spend more of your hard-earned money. But once again, you can outsmart them by planning ahead and purchasing Disney merchandise off-site at bargain prices. Shop before you leave home for tchotchkes at discount stores or check out sales at your local Disney store. Also, once in Orlando, there are a few Disney-themed outlets that offer authentic Disney merchandise at a discount. Here’s a cute idea: have another person (or you) take the kids out of the room and arrange their “gifts” on their bed. Tell them throughout the day that if they are extra-good, the fairies, princesses, pirates (or whatever Disney character they are into) will leave them a special gift. What a motivator to stay on the straight-and-narrow, and not beg for souvenirs! When they return and find their surprise, their eyes will light up and you will feel like Olaf in summer!
Weather Gear
Central Florida is famous for unpredictable weather. You can almost count on it being warm most of the time, but it’s not unheard of for a cold front to make its way to visit Mickey and the Gang. If going in the winter months, bring a jacket and pants, even if the weather report says it will be warm. And no matter what season it is, a rain storm may be just a wind gust away. If you get caught in a famous Florida storm while in the parks, you can either follow the rest of the crowd lining up to purchase a pricey Mickey Mouse poncho,or you can just pull your inexpensive dime-store poncho out of your bag, chuckle at the lines you just avoided, and move on to the next ride. If you have a stroller in tow, be sure to bring along a waterproof stroller cover or a couple of extra dime-store parkas to cover it, as stroller parking is mostly out in the elements.
See Ya Real Soon!
Are you the type who visits Disney yearly? If so, take advantage of Disney’s Bounceback offer, which offers a deep discount if you rebook a Disney trip before checking out of your resort. Not sure how it works or what time of year to visit again? No problem! Call or email your travel agent and they can perform their magic for you while you use your last Space Mountain fast pass for the day.
Planning ahead for your Disney vacation is a must these days, and with a few extra steps, you can save a bundle and have the time of your life doing so. Think of the money you save as a head start on next year’s vacation fund. Happy Disney Travels!
