Grandma Disney Expert Shares Her 5 Best Tips To Save on Your Happiest Trip
Disneyland might be the happiest place on earth, but its prices can leave you crying. Fortunately, a smart plan of attack will bring those costs way down.
As a longtime Disney enthusiast and planDisney panelist, Shonette Holbrook knows how to make the most of a trip to the "Most Magical Place on Earth" — without overspending. She first visited Walt Disney World on her honeymoon over 30 years ago and has since been back numerous times with her children — and now grandchildren.
Holbrook shared her top money-saving tips to help families plan smarter Disney vacations. It's not only about saving money, but ensuring you still have the most fun, without exhausting your energy or body.
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Watch for Seasonal Disney Deals
Keep an eye on the Special Offers, Deals & Discounts page on the Disney websites. You'll often find seasonal promotions to save on tickets, resort hotels and, from time to time, free dining offers.
Use Discounted Disney Gift Cards
These gift cards can be used for everything from resort hotels and theme park tickets to food at the parks. By purchasing gift cards in advance — and sometimes at a discount from retail stores — you can spread out the cost of your trip and save a little, too.
Travel During Off-Peak Times
If you want to keep your costs down, consider traveling during the "off-season." Parks usually get busier and more expensive during holidays and spring break. Traveling on weekdays can also help reduce costs. By simply thinking about when you travel, you can keep your trip within budget.
Plan a Day at Your Resort
Plan for an "off" day during your vacation. You don't need to buy a theme park ticket for every day of your trip. Spend a day relaxing by your resort hotel's pool and enjoying the free activities offered to Disney guests daily. From dance parties and campfires to trivia games and more, you'll discover plenty of magical ways to enjoy your day at the hotel.
Bring Your Own Water Bottle
"I can't tell you the money I have saved by skipping the soda pop and opting for water bottle refill stations to stay hydrated," Holbrook said.
Depending how many people you have with you, this could save a surprising chunk of change, but even if you're touring the House of Mouse solo, it's a healthier choice in terms of consuming less sugar and calories. Plus, the amount of sodium in such drinks is often shockingly high, and can make you even more thirsty in that sunny park. Follow Holbrook's advice and stick with the free water.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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