Vacationing in Walt Disney World is expensive. Families often figure out how to save every penny to come to Walt Disney World, which is exactly what my family did growing up. If coming to Walt Disney World meant that we had to drive from New York instead of flying, then that is what we did. As a middle class family we found every way to save money in order to spend time in the Disney parks. I am so grateful that my family found room in the budget for something so expensive.
With this said I think some experiences that come at an additional expense are worth it for even families on a tight budget.
1) Renting a boat on Seven Seas Lagoon
Renting a boat on the Seven Seas Lagoon is pricey ($32-$45 per half hour), but it is the best way for your family to escape the over-stimulation of the parks. Sitting back and taking in the breeze as you look over the castle from afar is worth the expense, even to a family on a budget. Most of the time, families in Walt Disney World aren’t really focused on spending time together, but rather they end up focusing on getting to the next attraction or show.
If you are like me, you like spending quality time with your family, and that means you should find time to concentrate on just one another. Being on a boat together even for it is only for a half hour is a great way to bond as a family.
Sea Raycer by Sea Ray (up to 2 guests) –$32 per 1/2 hour; $45 per hour
21’ SunTracker Pontoon (up to 8 people) — $45 per 1/2 hour
Boston Whaler (6 guests) — $45 per 1/2 hour
2) Buying at least one ride photo
Ride photos aren’t cheap. In fact one 5×7 photo will cost your family $12.95, but I personally think treating your family to at least one photo is a great keepsake. Unlike a T-Shirt or a balloon, a ride photo is a souvenir that lasts a lifetime. Especially if it is one of your children’s first time being tall enough to ride that attraction then it is a great way to preserve that memory.
3) Buying an autograph book for your children
In most of the gift shops in Walt Disney World there are autograph books. These books sell for $7.95, making them one of the cheapest souvenirs you can get in Walt Disney World. Buying these books, and then proceeding to run around to each character to get their autograph was one of my favorite memories with my family. My brothers always wanted to get as many autographs as possible so this was a great way to keep track of which characters we had already met. Buying these autograph books are worth the cost because of the joy it will bring to your children.
