Budgeting for Walt Disney World Travel

Hello Couponing to Disney readers! I’m Carrie, vacation specialist with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, and I visit you each week here on Couponing to Disney to answer some Disney FAQs. I love hanging out on Couponing to Disney every week with you, answering questions about the Happiest Place on Earth!  Traveling to Walt Disney World on a budget is one of the most important parts of planning your Disney trip.  “Budget” means different things to different guests.  But doing Disney on a budget can work for any family!  Many of us are already planning our 2015 trips to Disney, and saving money is part of the process.

When will 2015 bookings open for Walt Disney World?

Hopefully soon!  I know I have a long list of guests who are ready to book NOW for 2015.  Although you can book a room only 499 days in advance, if you want a package, the best idea is to be patient.  A room only reservation will need to be cancelled and rebooked as a package when the 2015 rates come out.  For now, contact me to be on my email list so you are the first to know when 2015 bookings open and we can get your trip booked and planned!

Is it possible to pay cash for a Disney vacation?

Actually, yes.  But you have to be creative!  You can purchase Disney gift cards at the Disney store or at many grocery stores to earn and incentive on gas or other discounts.  Use cash to purchase these Disney gift cards and set them aside until you are ready to book your trip or make a payment.  Your travel agent can process these as a payment and you just paid “cash” for your Disney trip.  This works well if you are saving a certain amount each month for a Disney trip.

What is the benefit to a Disney Visa Card?

Many frequent Disney travelers use a Disney Visa Card.  I love the benefits!  One main benefit is often Disney releases special offers to Disney Visa Cardholders before the general public.  This allows you first resort options, date availability, and you can get your trip planning started right away!  Also, when you pay off your package total on your Disney Visa, you receive 0% interest for 6 months.  When you are in the parks, many resort shops offer discounts when you use your Disney Visa.  Another great benefit is the Disney Reward Dollars card.  This can be used as a “gift card” type of payment on Disney trips, at the Disney store, and in restaurants and shops in the parks.  Plus, they often have a new card member offer, like a Disney gift card.  Finally, when you book with, make all payments, and your final payment with your Disney Visa on a Disney cruise, you are eligible for a $50 onboard credit.  Awesome!

Does Disney offer a payment plan?  

Yes!  One of my favorite aspects of Disney Travel is the ability to have a payment plan.  Disney travel allows you to make payments at any time from the time you book until 45 days prior to arrival.  Perfect if you are setting aside monthly amounts to pay off your trip!  This is also a possibility thanks to the Disney Vacation Account.  You can add directly to this account to save up for your Disney trip. When you are ready to book or make a payment, just inform your travel agent of your account number and it’s processed like a gift card payment.

What are some top money saving tips for planning a Disney vacation?

First, decide when you can visit.  Visiting in early December is much cheaper than over the Christmas holidays.  If taking your children out of school is an option, that is really the ideal time to visit.  If not, the earlier in summer the better.  Second, take advantage of a Disney Dining Plan.  You will end up spending quite a bit out of pocket when not on the Dining Plan, which can really hurt your budget.  Use budgeting methods like buying Disney gift cards or the Disney Vacation Account.  Picking up a $25 or $50 gift card at the grocery a few times a month will allow you to slowly but steadily save for that next trip.

Are you ready to plan your next family vacation? Let the Dream Team help you plan!