While there are varying opinions on the current value of a Disney vacation, we can all agree that it isn’t the cheapest getaway option on offer. From your resort choice to park tickets, the costs of Disney can add up very quickly. However, there are many ways to save your money along the way, and can make a big difference to your bottom line. You’ve likely heard tips like taking your own snacks and not buying water, instead getting it for free from any quick service location. Though my number one tip is something I rarely hear circulated around the internet the way we do some others.
The best way to keep your budget under control at Disney is not to make unforeseen (and unnecessary) purchases while in the park. You know, those last-minute items that you should have brought with you but will instead now spend four times the cost buying it in the parks? The budget that you leave home expecting to spend needs to stay reasonable and reliable without being blown out by purchases. The way to avoid this is to be prepared. Here are three of the most unnecessary items that you can avoid wasting money on in the parks:
Hats & Caps
It’s a common mistake. We often see guests wearing sunglasses or a hat, but very rarely both. If you are visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland, particularly in the warmer months, don’t make the mistake of not having a hat with you. Taking it doesn’t mean you have to wear it, but it will continuously give you the option. The midday sun is harsh, and with scarce weather covering attracting lines, we always see desperate guests looking for some relief from the sun, reaching for that expensive hat in the gift store. Making things worse, even the best of the options might not be something you would choose to wear at home, reducing the chances you will get your money’s worth out of it eventually.
Ponchos
While these won’t set you back as much as other unnecessary items, if you have a large family, the costs can still add up. If you are in any way concerned about the weather, visiting in the summer, or planning on enjoying water rides, grab the $1 ponchos from your local store and save the $10 – $15 per unit price tag of a last-minute purchase in the parks. I see it all the time; these can come in handy for more situations than just wearing them. I’ve often re-used ponchos as a ground-covering after it’s been raining or the surface is dirty. They also make a great windbreaker if the wind comes up and someone is cold.
Photo by Brian McGowan on Unsplash
Balloons
I know what you are saying; they are beautiful, and they make for a gorgeous focus in photography. Both of these things are true. No disagreements. Even though I would like to see balloons removed for environmental reasons (they almost all end up floating away) most parents that disagree are often saying that they make a good distraction for smaller kids when they are restless. This is likely true as well, though easily avoidable by bringing something more sustainable with you to amuse them. Even your own balloon. Consider bringing a smaller balloon that doesn’t have helium and won’t float away. Keep it tied closely to the stroller, and your child will be just as happy without the expense, and better yet, it won’t float away.
Of course, I love buying Disney merch, including hats, but I prefer to do it because it’s something I want and need rather than because I didn’t plan well enough to bring it with me. Have you ever blown out your budget by buying unnecessary merchandise in the parks because you were stuck without something? Add yours to the list so that we can all be better prepared for our future Disney travels.
Zoë Wood is a travel writer from Sydney, Australia. Since her first visit to Disneyland at the age of 6, she has spent her years frequently visiting Disney Parks and traveling around the world.
Join Zoë as she lets you in on all the tips, tricks, anecdotes, and embarrassments that arise from her family adventures.
