Disney World can cost a pretty penny. Therefore, one thing guests definitely want to avoid on a Disney vacation is wasting money. Learn 5 things at Disney World that are a waste of money, and what to do instead.
1. Bottled Water
Staying hydrated is very important while at Disney World. Disney World involves much walking and is hot the majority of the year (read: Weather By Month at Disney World). You may be surprised how thirsty you will be from exploring the parks. Therefore water is important to keep you going strong. However, bottled water will cost guests $3.50 each. For a family of 4, each having 2 bottles of water a day, for a week at Disney World adds up to $196.00 just for bottled water!
Instead: Have a case of water shipped to your Resort or stop by a Quick Service counter and ask for a free cup of ice water.
2. Princess Dresses
Guests aged 13 and younger are allowed to wear costumes into the parks. Walk into a Disney park and you will see many little Princesses walking around. However, a princess dress at Disney World will cost $70. While it is magical to see your little princess dressed up at Disney, the cost of a dress is not budget friendly.
Instead: Purchase a Princess Dress prior to your vacation, read: 7 Places to Buy A Princess Dress. Furthermore, did you know you can bring a princess dress to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique? This will allow your child to receive a makeover, and save you money at the same time.
3. Park Hopper
Park Hopper allows guests entry into more than 1 park per day, where as regular park tickets are only good for one park a day. Having the ability to park hop is a must for some, however for short stays it is a waste of money. This is because there is much to do and see in one park per day, short trips do not allow the time needed to hop. Many guests underestimate the actual time to hop, for example walking to bus stop, waiting for bus, security checks at the park and more all take time.
Instead: Get to the park for rope drop, then take a mid-day break such as swimming at your Resort, and return to the same park later in the afternoon.
4. Parking
You may think you are saving money by driving to Disney vs. Flying (for those who live close enough), however Parking Costs must be factored in. Parking Costs can be a budget buster.
5. Late Starts
If you plan on going to Disney World and sleep in daily, you are wasting your money. When at Disney World, time is money. There are only so many hours in the day, by getting a late start guests are wasting precious park hours. The early bird does get the worm, at Disney the early guests get shorter lines and less crowds. Disney World is not a leisurely paced vacation, there is just too much fun to have.
Instead: Get to the parks for rope drop (park opening), sometimes they will even let guests in a few minutes early. Allow for 1 hour travel time, therefore if the park opens at 9am, leave your Resort at 8am. This allows for plenty of time to get to the park before opening. If you happen to show up early, enjoy photo opportunities at the entrance with fewer guests in the mornings.
(Thanks, Sara)
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.
Raeann L Davis says
Do you pay to park at the resort if you have a handicapped card.
L ing says
Yes you do you just get to park in the handicap section
Kiley says
Last I knew, parking at the theme parks was free if you were staying on Disney property. Have they changed this? Thanks!
Faith says
Yes they have! Now you pay to park at your resort!