A 5-Step Guide to Family Fun at Disneyland on a Frugal Budget
Written by
Andrew Lisa
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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A family vacation to Disneyland in sunny Southern California has been part of the American dream for generations — but unless money is no object, budgeting for it can be a nightmare. The House of Mouse comes with a steep cover charge, and when you factor in flights, food, accommodations and souvenirs, frugal families can find themselves priced out of the experience — but they don’t have to be.
Follow these steps to plan an affordable trip to Disneyland, even if your budget isn’t as magical as the kingdom you hope to visit.
Visit When Demand Is Low and Crowds Are Thin
The Disneyland website recommends traveling in the off-peak time of mid-September through mid-November before Thanksgiving break. Alternatively, demand is also low from mid-January through mid-March before spring break, excluding holiday weekends in both cases.
Due to stifled demand, off-peak visits bring smaller crowds, more available rooms and lower prices. However, guests should also brace for reduced hours, fewer events and entertainment options, and the potential of closures and renovations.
Shop Around for Discounted Tickets
When shopping for tickets and passes, check reputable, authorized sellers, like Undercover Tourist and Get Away Today, which consistently offer authentic tickets for less — sometimes much less.
There are no hidden fees and taxes are included in the prices — what you see is what you pay. Their contracts with Disney allow them to purchase passes in bulk at a discount and pass on the savings to customers. They also offer specials on packages, bundles and specialty tickets.
Stay at an Off-Site Hotel
Staying at an in-park hotel offers unrivaled convenience and access — but it will cost you. According to SFGate, it typically costs “well over $500 per night” for standard rooms at an on-site hotel. During busy times, it can quickly soar beyond $1,000 per night.
Instead, choose nearby “Good Neighbor” hotels, which Disney has vetted and awarded the park’s stamp of approval. There are dozens within walking distance, with many offering rooms for $150 a night compared with $600 for comparable in-park rooms.
Avoid Park Hopping and Plan Your Passes Around Your Stay
Undercover Tourist recommends focusing on one park per day instead of paying more for park-hopping privileges.
However, single-day tickets are typically the most expensive and rarely come at a discount. Multi-day discounts usually offer the best value, especially for those visiting on holidays, weekends or school breaks, since they’re not affected by peak pricing. However, single-day tickets can cost less for visits on Tier 0, 1 or 2 days.
Eat Smart and Avoid the Gift Shop
Princess dresses, light-up bubble wands, Star Wars merch, Mickey ears and Moana T-shirts are available at every turn in Disneyland — but at a huge markup. Instead, buy your own costumes and merchandise beforehand and bring them along for potentially serious savings.
Also, go grocery shopping upon arrival and pack your own food and snacks. Disneyland allows guests to bring food and nonalcoholic beverages into the park, with certain common-sense restrictions — and don’t forget a refillable water bottle. According to Undercover Tourist, four bottles of water alone will run you $15.
And if there’s enough room in your budget to splurge, make it a semi-splurge by choosing quick-service restaurants instead of sit-down dining.
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