Your going to Disney World! However, do you have a budget for Disney World? Disney World is more than just paying for a Resort and having Park tickets. Learn 7 Hidden Costs Of A Disney World Vacation. A Disney vacation is well worth it, however know the additional fees you may not have factored in.
1. Travel
Getting your group to Disney World needs to be factored into the cost of your vacation. Travel costs include: Plane Tickets or Gas (depending on flying vs. driving). For guests flying, note any other fees such as checked luggage. For guests driving, note any other expenses such as a mid-trip hotel stay. Also, whether driving or flying factor in meals on travel days.
2. Luggage
The first time I booked a Disney World vacation as an adult I realized I did not own any luggage! Luggage can cost hundreds of dollars for a nice set. Buying good luggage can be looked at as an investment if you plan to travel often. Once you begin planning your Disney vacation, start watching luggage sales. As a pro-tip, March is the best month to buy luggage (New styles come out, get deals on last year’s luggage), followed by August (Summer travel winds down). Of course, deals will pop up year round so be on the lookout. For a budget friendly option, Thrift Stores can be a great place to buy luggage.
3. Parking
For those driving to Disney World, parking can be an unexpected cost. Budget for resort parking and parking at Disney theme parks. First, learn the per-night cost of parking at a Disney Resort: Disney Value Resorts: $13 per night, Disney Moderate Resorts: $19 per night, Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts: $24 per night. Good news is these are overnight charges only. Parking is complimentary for guests who visit a Disney Resort for the day, to resort hop or dine.
Theme Park parking is as follows: $25 for vehicles, $30 for Oversized Vehicle Parking and $50 for preferred parking. Once you have paid for parking for the day, save your receipt to show at any additional Disney World theme parks. You pay once per day. Note, guests staying at a Disney World Resort do not have to pay for parking at theme parks.
Learn more about Parking at Disney World, which includes exceptions to guests paying for Resort parking, Free Parking at Disney Springs and more.
4. Tip Money
Budgeting for a Disney World vacation should also include tipping. If inclined, as cash on hand to tip: anyone who handles your luggage such as Magical Express Driver & Bell Services, Mousekeeping, Valet parking, and anyone who performs a service (Hair Wrapping, Hair cuts, Spa services, Art of Shaving and Bippity Boppity Boutique Fairy Godmothers).
In addition, tipping at restaurants (includes buffets) is customary at 18%- 20% of total bill. For parties of 6 or more an automatic 18% gratuity will be added. Tipping at sit-down restaurants is expected, including Character meals. Tipping at Quick Service restaurants is not.
5. Taxes
Disney World is located in Florida, and subject to Florida state tax of 6%-8% (varies by city). Taxes are also added into the final cost of your Disney World Resort stay. Be aware that taxes will increase your vacation costs. Some guests who are used to living in a tax-free state may forget about this.
6. Souvenirs
Souvenirs are a variable cost on a Disney vacation, meaning you control this amount. However, it is very tempting while at Disney World to want to buy since shops are plentiful. Read: Budgeting For Souvenirs At Disney World to get an idea of how much to budget, where I break down how an average family of 4 will spend $250 on souvenirs during a week stay at Disney World.
7. Food
Guests need to eat while at Disney World, however some underestimate the chunk of money. Consider how much 3 meals per day and snacks will cost, per person. Guests can do this by browsing menu’s & pricing on the My Disney Experience app prior to their vacation, or online. Decide if a Disney Dining Plan would be beneficial, which allows guests to pre-pay for meals and snacks during their vacation and then redeem credits as they please.
To customize your perfect Disney vacation on a budget, I highly suggest the Savings For Disney Course.
(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.