How Much Does It Cost To Go to Disney World? Everything You Need To Know + Ways To Save (2023)

So, you’re going to Walt Disney World! Or, you’re at least thinking about planning a trip to the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” One of the most important questions you’re probably asking yourself is, “How much does it cost to go to Disney World?”

The answer depends on a lot of factors, including how many people are in your party, how many days you plan to visit, where you eat, what hotel you choose, how you get to Disney World, if you’re interested in upgrades, and more.

It’s a lot to keep track of — especially on a budget. Whether you’re pinching pennies or going all out for the trip of a lifetime, we’ve got a breakdown of everything you need to know to plan your Disney World vacation in Florida. We even have pro tips on how to save! Let’s get started.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GO TO DISNEY WORLD?

In general, a Walt Disney World vacation costs families somewhere between $4,000 to $7,000+. Of course, some families may be able to plan their trip for far less or even more. The reason that there is such a range in the cost is that there are so many factors and each family will choose to plan their trip in entirely different ways, impacting the price.

The initial costs you’ll incur when planning a Disney trip are your hotel stay, park tickets, and, depending on your location, airfare or a rental car. Then during your trip, you’ll need to budget for meals (including snacks!), parking (if you are driving your own car), and souvenirs that all vary widely in price.

On top of that, you might want to add on some extras — like ticketed events for the holidays, Genie+ and individual lightning lanes (which enables you to skip the standby line at select attractions), behind-the-scenes tours, and more.

It can be difficult to provide a precise estimate of the total cost of a trip to Disney World without knowing more about your specific plans and preferences. However, it’s safe to say that you should expect to spend several hundred dollars per person for a Disney trip, with the potential for costs to significantly increase depending on your plans.

Read More: 80 BEST DISNEY WORLD TIPS FOR A MAGICAL VACATION

FLIGHTS

If you don’t live close to Orlando, Florida, then flying will likely be the fastest way to get to Disney World. But, this can be a significant addition to your vacation budget. There are two different airports that are within an hour of the Walt Disney World Resort including Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Of these, MCO is the most popular for vacationers who are flying in, though SFB can be easier to navigate, as it is much smaller.

The cost of a round-trip flight to either Orlando-area airport can vary significantly. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800 per person. However, prices can be significantly higher or lower depending on the time of year that you’re traveling, where you are departing, and how far in advance you book your airline tickets. 

When you’re deciding whether the cost of flying to Disney World is worth it for you and your family, consider your location, the overall price of flights, and your personal preferences. If you’re located a significant distance from Orlando, flying may be the most convenient and time-efficient option. However, for those located closer to Orlando, driving or taking the bus or train may be a more cost-effective option.

It’s also worth considering if there are other areas in your budget where you could cut costs to make flying to Disney World feasible. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is something that can help protect you financially in the event of unforeseen circumstances that impact your travel plans, and it’s certainly worth considering.

Unforeseen circumstances can include things like last-minute trip cancellations, medical emergencies or illness, hurricanes (which are common in Central Florida where Disney World is located), or other unexpected events that may impact your plans. Just be sure to review your travel insurance before purchasing so that you know what is and is not covered.

Travel insurance can range in price from a few dollars per day to several hundred dollars per day, depending on the coverage that you choose. It may be a good investment for your Disney vacation if you’re traveling during hurricane season, investing a significant amount of money on your trip, or are particularly risk-averse.

On the other hand, if you are taking a short, low-cost trip with minimal risks, travel insurance may not be necessary for your family.

ACCOMODATIONS

One of the first things that you’ll need to book when planning a Disney World vacation is your hotel. Disney World has a lot of hotels and resorts for every type of budget. Here’s an overview of the different resort categories and costs.

DISNEY VALUE RESORTS

Disney Value Resorts are the most budget-friendly hotel type in Walt Disney World. The rooms are smaller and typically come with one queen bed and a pull-down bed, though this can vary.

When it comes to amenities, these hotels typically have themed pools, a food court, gift shop, and transportation to all of the Disney theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs.

Disney Value Resorts usually cost between $100 to $300 per night and are a great option for Disney-goers who are looking for an affordable way to experience Disney World, or for those who are planning to spend most of their time at the parks and don’t need a lot of extra amenities.

Editor note: When it comes to value resorts, my kids love Disney’s Pop Century Resort — even more than the moderate resorts we’ve stayed at! And bonus: Pop is on the Disney Skyliner route, giving you another way to get to Hollywood Studios and Epcot easily.

DISNEY MODERATE RESORTS

Disney Moderate Resorts are the mid-priced hotel accommodations in Walt Disney World. At these hotels, you can expect more amenities than the Value Resort category including pools with waterslides, a quick service restaurant, table service restaurant, and convenient transportation to the theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs.

The rooms typically include two queen beds and some Moderate Hotels even feature extra special Disney-themed rooms. Disney Moderate Resorts range in price from around $200 to $400 per night and are best for those who would like a higher level of amenities and services without paying the premium prices of Disney Deluxe Resorts.

DISNEY DELUXE RESORTS

Disney Deluxe Resorts are the most luxurious hotel options available at Walt Disney World. These hotels offer high-end amenities and services designed for an up-scale Disney vacation experience.

The rooms in Disney Deluxe Resorts are the largest and cost between $400 to over $800 per night. Amenities include multiple quick service restaurants, high-end table service restaurants, full-service spas, poolside cabanas, convenient transportation options, and club-level accommodations.

Disney Deluxe Resorts are a good option for guests who want an upscale Disney vacation experience and are willing to pay a premium for it.

DISNEY DELUXE VILLAS

Disney Deluxe Villas are Disney’s version of vacation rental accommodations (or timeshares) and can be booked by Disney Vacation Club Members. The villas offer all the accommodations of Disney Deluxe Resorts, but come with the added luxury of having the space of a vacation rental.

The average cost per night for this resort type is $400 to over $800, though room types and costs vary greatly.

Because Disney Deluxe Villas require an investment in the Disney Vacation Club, they are best for those who vacation to Disney World often or those who are traveling with a large group.

OFF- PROPERTY RESORTS

Off-Property Resorts are hotel accommodations located near Walt Disney World (but not on Disney property) and are not owned or operated by Disney.

They offer a range of amenities and services and vary widely when it comes to quality and price — with some costing as little as $100 per night and others upwards of $500 per night.

Off-Property Resorts near Disney World are a good option for vacationers who are looking for a more affordable alternative to Disney-owned hotels or those who also plan to visit other Orlando-area theme parks during their trip.

Just note that not all Off-Property Resorts offer theme park transportation for free (or at all), so be sure you check with the hotel before you book.

Read More: COMPARING OUR FAVORITE WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORTS (+TIPS FROM A DISNEY INSIDER)

PARK TICKETS

Once you’ve secured your hotel reservations, it’s time to figure out your park plans. Here’s an overview of the different ticket types and costs available at the Disney World theme parks!

BASE TICKETS

Disney World’s base tickets allow you to enter one theme park per day. The tickets are date-based and park-specific, meaning that the ticket you purchase will designate which park you can visit on the exact date, giving you slightly less flexibility in changing your park plans.

Pricing ranges from $109 to $189 depending on the time of year, day of the week, and park you plan to visit. Magic Kingdom base tickets are typically the most expensive, with EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios being priced in the middle, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom tickets being the cheapest.

There are a few ways you can save money on Walt Disney World tickets. You can consider purchasing multi-day tickets, as these can often offer a lower per-day cost than purchasing single-day tickets. Or, you may be able to find discounts through Disney’s website if you are a Florida Resident or purchase with a vacation package.

Other discounts are sometimes available through third-party websites, travel agents, and at local stores that sell theme park tickets, like Costco.

PARK HOPPER AND PARK HOPPER PLUS TICKETS

Disney World Park Hopper and Park Hopper Plus tickets allow you to visit multiple parks on the same day and are a great option for those who want flexibility.

Both the Park Hopper option and Park Hopper Plus tickets allow you can visit any combination of the four theme parks on the same day. The Park Hopper Plus option also allows you a certain number of visits to other Disney experiences such as water parks, miniature golf, and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex during your trip.

Pricing for both tickets vary based on when you visit and the length of your stay. Generally, you can expect to pay between $184 to $252 for a Park Hopper ticket and $204 to $272 for a Park Hopper Plus ticket. Discounts are not often available for park hopper tickets, though you can save a little extra by purchasing multi-day tickets.

Whether or not Park Hopper tickets are worth it will depend on your specific plans and how much you want to see and do during your trip. If you only plan to visit one park per day and don’t have a lot of extra time, a base ticket will likely be best for your family. However, if you want to maximize your time and see as much as possible with some built-in flexibility, a Park Hopper ticket or Park Hopper Plus ticket may be a good investment.

Read More: DISNEY PARK HOPPER: YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PARK HOPPING AT DISNEY WORLD

SPECIAL EVENTS

Throughout the year, Disney World offers several special events — like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Disney After Hours, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

These special events typically require a separate ticket, in addition to the standard theme park admission, and have limited capacity. All of these events include free snacks (with the specific snacks included, depending on the event), extra time in the park with lower crowds, exclusive shows and character meet-and-greets, and access to purchase specialty Disney merchandise and treats.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party takes place in Magic Kingdom around the Halloween season and typically costs between $109 to $199 per person. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is also a special Magic Kingdom event that is available around the holiday season and costs between $149 to $199 per person.

Disney After Hours is held at other parks (including the water parks!) on select nights throughout the year and costs between $129 to $159 per person.

To save on tickets for these events, it is generally cheaper to purchase tickets earlier in the season, as ticket prices tend to increase as the actual holiday approaches. Some discounts may also be available for Disney World Annual Passholders, Florida Residents, and Disney Vacation Club Members.

Read More: YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO A FUN & SPOOKTACULAR DISNEY HALLOWEEN | 22 BEST REASONS DISNEY AT CHRISTMAS IS MAGICAL

TOURS AND EXPERIENCES

Tours and experiences are a special add-on to your Disney World vacation and are a great way for guests to go behind the scenes, learn about the parks and their history, or have unique experiences. They are offered at all four theme parks and are priced from $35 to $275+ per person, depending on the tour you select.

Some of the most popular tours and experiences include the Keys to the Kingdom Tour at Magic Kingdom (where you get a behind-the-scenes look at the park and even get to go into the underground utilidors), the Backstage Magic Tour (which encompasses all four theme parks), and the Behind the Seeds Tour at EPCOT.

The Caring for Giants tour and the Wild Africa Trek tour at Disney’s Animal Kingdom are also fan favorites and allow you to have up-close experiences with the wildlife in the park.

What’s included in the price of the tour varies widely based on which one you select. For example, some include meals, PhotoPass images, keepsakes, and other perks.

Read More: 11 ABSOLUTELY MAGICAL DISNEY TOURS YOU’LL LOVE

DISCOUNTS

Throughout the year, Disney offers a variety of ticket discounts for select groups of travelers that can help with Disney World costs. These discounts can be a great way to save money on your vacation, but you might have to do some searching to find the best deal.

Some examples of Disney World ticket discounts that have been available in the past include Florida and Georgia resident discounts, active and retired U.S. military discounts, Disney World Annual Passholder discounts, and AAA member discounts.

TRANSPORTATION

Now you need to actually get to the parks! Here’s an overview of all the Disney World transportation options and their costs.

AIRPORT SHUTTLE

In 2022, Disney discontinued the Disney Magical Express shuttle service that took guests between the Orlando International Airport (MCO) and their Disney World hotel for free. So, now everyone has to figure out transportation on their own. If you want an experience that is most similar to Disney’s Magical Express when it comes to convenience and ease of use, then an airport shuttle is best.

Currently, there are two different airport shuttle services that go to Disney World hotels and MCO, including Mears Connect and The Sunshine Flyer. Each service offers comparable service and guarantees that you’ll get to your hotel within 60-90 minutes of boarding the bus.

Pricing for The Sunshine Flyer is $32 round trip per adult and $20 round trip per child, and pricing for Mears Connect is $32 round trip per adult and $27 round trip per child. Mears Connect also offers a private shuttle service that is a bit faster that costs $250 round trip for up to 4 passengers.

Airport shuttle services are one of the most worry-free and cost-effective transportation options for guests visiting Disney World. All you need to do to book them in advance is input your airline information and Disney hotel information and you’re good to go!

Some discounts are available from time to time, so be sure to check for any promotions before you make your reservation.

CAR RENTAL

Renting a car when you go to Disney World offers you the most flexibility and is a particularly great option for those who plan to visit other Orlando area attractions outside of the Walt Disney World Resort. However, car rentals are one of the pricier transportation options, with costs averaging between $20 to upwards of $50 or more per day.

Exact pricing will depend on the type of car your rent, the length of your rental, and the time of year. There may also be additional charges to take into account like gas, rental car insurance, and parking at Disney World.

To save on a rental car, consider booking in advance, opt for a smaller car, or skip the rental car insurance if you have car insurance that will cover your rental. Some rental car companies may also offer discounted rates, so do some research and compare pricing before booking to find the best deal.

RIDESHARE

Rideshares like Uber or Lyft are a great option for getting between the airport and your Disney hotel, traveling to and from the parks and attractions in Disney World more efficiently, and visiting other Orlando area attractions.

The average cost of a rideshare service in the Disney World area ranges from $25-$80+ for a one-way trip, depending on the car type you request, the exact distance, and the time of day that you’re traveling. Surge pricing does apply to these services, so it can be hard to plan in advance the exact costs you’ll incur.

There are some easy ways to save on a rideshare service though, including using promotional codes offered by the companies, splitting the cost of your ride with other passengers, and choosing to travel during non-peak times when rides are cheaper.

If you want the flexibility and convenience of not relying on Disney transportation or other shuttle services, this can be a more affordable option than a rental car. Plus, you’ll avoid any parking fees at Disney World.

PARKING

If you’re staying in a Disney resort hotel, complimentary self-parking is a perk that came back in January 2023. Not only do you get to park your car for free at your hotel, you also get free standard parking at the theme parks. Each campsite at Fort Wilderness Campground also comes with one complimentary space at each site.

Parking is also complimentary at the other resorts and hotels for day guests as they enjoy dining, shopping or entertainment at other Disney Resort Hotels.

Additionally, parking at the Disney World water parks, Disney Springs, and ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex is complimentary for all guests.

But there are some parking fees for other things!

Valet parking is available at Coronado Springs Resort, Disney Deluxe and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts for an added fee. Valet service is $33 per night.

If you’re not staying at a Disney Resort Hotel, you’ll have to pay for parking at the theme parks. The good news is that your parking pass is good for the whole day…no matter how many of the parks you visit.

Standard parking for a car or motorcycle is $25 per day. If you’re in an oversized vehicle — like a shuttle, camper, limo, RV, bus or tractor trailer — that costs $30 per day.

You can also pay more to get a parking spot closer to the entrance. Preferred parking at the theme parks is $45-$50 per day, depending on the season. If you’re a Disney hotel guest and want Preferred Parking, you can pay the difference in cost between your complimentary standard parking and the Preferred parking. (It’s usually $20-$25, depending on the season.)

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

You’ve got to eat while you vacation at Disney World, but how much will it cost you? Here’s an overview of all the dining options and their pricing.

DISNEY WORLD RESTAURANTS

Table service restaurants in Disney World typically offer a more formal dining experience, have a larger menu, and some even include opportunities to meet and interact with Disney characters. They are available in all four Disney theme parks and Moderate and Deluxe Resort hotels, and range in price from as little as $15 per person, all the way up to $295+ per person.

Disney World restaurants are the priciest option when it comes to dining, but you may qualify for discounts if you are a Disney Vacation Club Member or Disney World Annual Passholder.

You may want to consider making a reservation for a table service restaurant if you are looking to try some of Disney World’s best menu items or if you’d like to do any character dining. Just keep in mind that eating at these restaurants will typically take longer than quick service meals.

Read More: DINING WITH DISNEY CHARACTERS: 14 SPOTS YOU’LL LOVE

DISNEY WORLD COUNTER- SERVICE

Disney World counter-service restaurants (also known as quick service restaurants), are Disney’s fast food-style dining option at the theme parks and resorts.

You can typically find menu items to please almost anyone — like burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and salads. The food isn’t necessarily going to stand out compared to table service restaurants, but quick service meals are designed to provide a quick and convenient way to grab a bite to eat while you soak up as much time as possible in the theme parks.

The average cost of a counter-service meal is between $10-$20 per person. Portion sizes can be pretty large though, so you can save even more by opting to split meals with someone in your party.

Read More: 31+ BEST DISNEY WORLD RESTAURANTS YOU’LL ADORE

DISNEY WORLD HOTELS

Depending on the Disney World hotel you choose, you can find a wide variety of dining options including table service restaurants, quick service meals, cafes, and lounges.

Generally, the cost is comparable to those that you’ll find in the theme parks, with counter-service meals ranging from $10-20 per person and table-service meals ranging from $15-$295+ per person. Lounges and cafes are a bit cheaper, though portion sizes are typically smaller.

Most guests will choose to take advantage of the dining options in their hotel for convenience, plus you can find some of the very best food at these restaurants. They also offer a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the Disney Parks.

DISNEY DINING PLANS

Disney Dining Plans are a type of meal and snack plan offered by Disney World that allows guests to pre-pay for a certain number of meal and snack credits per day to be used during their stay.

Disney offers several different Disney Dining Plans that are made up of a set number of counter-service meal credits, table-service meal credits, and snack credits. The cost of the plan will depend on the specific option you choose, however, you can expect prices to range from around $55 per person, per night for the most basic plan, to $119 per person, per night for the deluxe plan.

The Disney Dining Plan isn’t structured to save you money on dining necessarily, but it is one of the best budgeting tools for your meals during your Disney vacation.

If you’re able to find a dining plan that includes the number of meals and snacks that you intend to have per day, it may be worth purchasing in advance. However, it’s important to note that you’ll be paying a fixed cost per meal, so opting for the most expensive items on the menu will provide you with the most value out of your dining plan. 

In the past, Disney has also offered a free dining plan with the purchase of a Disney vacation package during the off-season. Just check Disney’s website before booking your stay to see if you’re visiting during the qualifying period.

Dining plans have not been available in Disney World since 2020, but they are set to return at some point in the future. 

BRINGING YOUR OWN FOOD

Disney World’s policy on bringing your own food and drinks into the theme parks is generally pretty lenient, and guests are allowed to bring a wide range of items into the parks.

According to Disney’s official website, guests are allowed to bring in “coolers with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks, as long as they do not require heating, reheating, processing, refrigeration or temperature control.” This means that you’re good to bring in things like bottled water, sodas, sandwiches, and any other snacks, so long as they do not need to be kept cold or need warming.

You can expect the cost to be comparable to your average grocery bill, as you get to pick and choose what you buy. Though, you may need to factor in the cost of gas to drive to a grocery store or delivery fees if you’re having your groceries delivered to your hotel room.

Even with delivery or gas costs, bringing your own food into the Disney Parks can be the most cost-effective option.

DISNEY SPRINGS ATTRACTIONS & ENTERTAINMENT

Disney Springs is a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located in the Walt Disney World Resort. It is free of charge to visit and you don’t need a park ticket to enter.

Some experiences do require an admission fee though, like bowling, catching a movie at the movie theater, or seeing Disney’s exclusive Cirque Du Soleil show. Additionally, you’ll want to factor in any meals or souvenirs you might want to purchase while you’re visiting.

Even with the chance for additional costs, Disney Springs is a great add-on to your Disney World vacation, especially on days when you may not have enough time to visit a park, such as the day you arrive or the day you depart.

Read More: 31 FUN THINGS TO DO AT DISNEY SPRINGS YOU’LL LOVE

DISNEY WORLD EXTRAS

There’s more to a Disney vacation than just the basics – here’s an overview of all the things you may also want to purchase during your trip.

MAGICBAND

MagicBand and MagicBand+ is a Disney World accessory that serves as your park ticket, hotel room key, and payment method, along with other on-property benefits. They essentially replace the traditional key cards and come in a variety of colors and designs that can be personalized with your name or a unique message.

MagicBands range in price from $14.99 to upwards of $30+, depending on the design that you choose and whether you’re opting for the basic MagicBand or the MagicBand+ (which unlocks special interactions throughout all four parks).

Discounts are available for Disney World Passholders and guests staying at a Disney World hotel when they are purchased in advance of your trip.

MagicBands are one of the most convenient accessories to have during your Disney World trip, though you don’t need one to get into the parks or access your room. They can be particularly useful for large groups of travelers, because it keeps everyone’s tickets at arms reach rather than having to keep track of multiple cards or tickets.

Additionally, if you plan to visit Disney World frequently, the MagicBand battery lasts up to 5 years according to Disney, so you can us it over and over again without needing to purchase another.

Read More: DISNEY MAGIC BAND 2023: 17 SECRETS YOU’LL APPRECIATE KNOWING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

DISNEY WORLD GENIE+

Disney Genie+ is Disney’s replacement for the former FastPass+ service that lets you skip the standby line at select attractions throughout all four parks for a fee, letting you tackle more rides in one day.

Prices range from $15-$29 per person, per day, with costs peaking during busier travel times and at their lowest when the parks are less crowded.

Keep in mind that standby lines are still available for free at all of the attractions. You may want to consider purchasing Disney Genie+ if you’re traveling during peak travel times, like holidays or school break periods. It’s also a great option if you’re time is limited and you’re trying to get in as many rides as possible!

LIGHTNING LANE

Each Disney park has one ride that is not included in the purchase of Disney Genie+ and is instead a separate individual cost for Lighting Lane entry (a.k.a. skipping the standby line).

These attractions are generally considered the most popular in each park and include Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Avatar Flight of Passage at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Prices for Lightning Lanes at these rides vary by day and attraction, and they range from $7 to $25 per person, with prices being lower during the off-season and higher during peak season when the parks are most crowded.

Like Genie+, consider purchasing Lighting Lane entry if there’s a ride that you absolutely do not want to miss, if you’re short on time, or if you’re visiting during an exceptionally busy time and you don’t want to wait in the standby line.

MEMORY MAKER

Disney Memory Maker is a photo package offered exclusively by Disney that allows you to download all of the pictures that were taken of you by Disney PhotoPass photographers and on-ride photo ops directly to your own device.

The cost of the package depends on when you purchase it. Currently, Disney Memory Maker costs $169 when purchased at least 3 days in advance of your trip, and costs $199 if you purchase it during or after your vacation. The only difference in the price is the timing of when you buy it – both will give you unlimited downloads of all of your photos and videos.

The best way to save on the Memory Maker is to purchase in advance, but how do you know if it’s right for you? Well, it may be worth the cost for your family if you don’t want to have to deal with the hassle of getting all your family photos taken with your own camera. And, if those on-ride photos are important to you, Memory Maker is the only way to access them!

Read More: DISNEY PHOTOPASS VS DISNEY MEMORY MAKER (+ TIPS AND TRICKS YOU NEED TO KNOW!)

PRIME SEATING

Throughout the year, Disney offers several dining packages that provide guests with a meal at a table-service restaurant or dessert party and guaranteed or preferred viewing areas of Disney World fireworks shows and events.

These have a wide range of costs associated with them, but usually cost at least $50 per person. For example, Candlelight Processional Dining Packages at EPCOT include a sit-down meal and guaranteed seats at the nighttime presentation of the Candlelight Processional. Packages cost between $64-$79 per person depending on the restaurant you choose.

Another example is Fireworks Dessert Parties at Magic Kingdom, which include unlimited themed treats and drinks with an exclusive viewing area of the nighttime fireworks show. These range in price from $99-$114 per person.

These can be a great add-on to your trip if you’re celebrating something special. So, be sure to check Disney’s website for the most up-to-date offerings and pricing if you’re thinking of purchasing one of the dining packages with prime seating.

Read More: YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO DISNEY FIREWORKS AT WDW

STROLLER RENTAL

Stroller rentals are available at every Disney World theme park and provide guests with a convenient option for getting kids around the parks on long days without needing to bring a personal stroller from home.

Both single and double strollers are available for rent daily, with single strollers costing $15 per day and doubles costing $31 per day.

If you plan to use Disney’s stroller rentals everyday during your trip, you can save by paying upfront for the length of your stay. Doing so will bring the price down to $13 per day for a single stroller and $27 per day for a double stroller.

Additionally, you may be able to get a better deal on a stroller rental from a third-party rental company like Kingdom Strollers, so do your research before deciding which stroller rental is best for you!

Read More: 2023’S BEST STROLLERS FOR DISNEY (FROM A MOM IN THE KNOW)

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

Souvenirs can be a great way to remember your Disney World trip when you get home. Whether you’re looking for a fun accessory to wear in the park, something to display at home, or something that you’ll use every day, Disney is sure to have something that will catch your eye.

For example, popular souvenirs include Minnie Ears (which cost $34.99 or more depending on the design), ornaments (which cost around $24.99 each), Disney character plushies (costing on average $29.99), and Disney-themed mugs (usually priced around $29.99).

One of the cheapest souvenirs you can get are Disney pins. Not only can you get Disney pins in advance of your trip — you can also participate in Disney Pin Trading for added fun.

You can often save on Disney souvenirs by shopping online at shopDisney during sales or seeing if any of the souvenirs are available at Target Disney Stores for a discount.

It can also be beneficial to set a souvenir budget for your kids and purchase a Disney gift card for them to use in advance to ensure that they don’t go over the spending limit. Some stores also offer a discount on Disney gift cards, so you can save even more if you prepare in advance!

Read More: 21 REVEALING DISNEY PIN TRADING TRICKS FOR YOUR NEXT FAIRYDUST ADVENTURE

TRAVELING ESSENTIALS

Packing wisely can make a big difference for your Disney World vacation budget because you won’t have to buy any of the essentials (which usually cost more at the parks) while you’re there!

For example, packing a water bottle, sunscreen, medicines, comfortable shoes, and appropriate clothing for the predicted weather is a must.

Additionally, you can save some extra cash by purchasing your Disney souvenirs in advance and taking them along with you. Disney’s online store, shopDisney, usually stocks many of the same items you can find in the parks like backpacks, Mickey and Minnie Ears, t-shirts, and more.

And, if you shop at the right time, you can often find a sale on them all!

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT DISNEY WORLD?

There’s never a bad time to visit Walt Disney World, but there are some times that may be better if you’re hoping to save some money. In recent years, Disney’s “off-season” has been considered late September through mid-October and mid-January through late February. The main reason for this is that school is usually in session and there aren’t many special events drawing crowds to the parks.

During Disney’s “off-season,” you’ll find that the cost of a hotel stay and park tickets are on the lower end of the price range. Plus, Disney tends to run additional promotional deals during these times. This is done because Disney wants to attract more guests to visit!

The “off-season” is marked with more room vacancies and fewer people visiting, so the pricing structure is built to increase demand in slower times.

WHAT IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE TIME TO VISIT DISNEY WORLD?

The most expensive time to book a trip to Disney World is generally during peak season, which typically includes the summer months (May-August), holiday periods (like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and Spring Break), and other times when demand for theme park tickets and hotel rooms is high. During these times, more people are traveling, so prices for tickets, hotel rooms, and more are generally higher due to the increased demand.

In the past, peak season has been only a select few months out of the year. However, with festivals running in EPCOT nearly year-round and holiday events taking place over the course of months rather than weeks, the parks have only become more and more crowded.

As demand goes up, so does the cost of a Disney vacation during those times. If you’re looking to save money, consider going during an off-peak time.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

There are a few other things you should know when budgeting for your Disney World trip. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions.

DO YOU NEED A RESERVATION TO VISIT DISNEY WORLD?

Yes! Currently, Disney requires that all guests have both a valid park ticket and Park Pass Reservation for the park they plan to visit each day of their vacation.

Additionally, hotel reservations, dining reservations at table service restaurants, and reservations for any additional tours or ticketed events must be made in advance.

IS DISNEY SPRINGS FREE?

Visiting Disney Springs is free for all guests and does not require a ticket or reservation. However, some attractions may have an admission fee and there is a cost to dining at restaurants or purchasing from any of the shops, of course.

CAN YOU UPGRADE TICKETS FOR DISNEY WORLD?

Yes, you can upgrade your Walt Disney World park tickets at any point leading up to or during your vacation.

Note that any additional charges will apply to the entirety of your trip if you are upgrading multi-day tickets, regardless of when you choose to upgrade. To upgrade your tickets, visit a ticket window at any of the Disney World theme parks or call Disney directly.

DOES DISNEY WORLD OFFER FREE TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM THE AIRPORT?

No. Disney’s Magical Express was discontinued in 2022. Now guests must make their own arrangements to get between the airport and Disney World, which may have a cost associated.

IS DISNEY WORLD BIGGER THAN DISNEYLAND?

Yes! The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida covers 40 square miles and is made up of four different theme parks, two water parks, Disney Springs, and more.

Disneyland Resort covers approximately 509 acres and includes two theme parks and the Downtown Disney shopping and dining district. 

CAN YOU VISIT DISNEY WORLD ON A TIGHT BUDGET?

Yes! There are several ways to save money during your Walt Disney World vacation, it just might take some additional planning.

If you are planning with a tight budget, consider contacting a Disney travel agent for assistance to ensure that you’re taking advantage of every discount available to you.

AT WHAT AGE CAN KIDS GO FREE AT DISNEY WORLD?

Disney World does not require that children under age 3 purchase a ticket to enter the theme parks.

Tickets for kids ages 3-9 are slightly cheaper than adult tickets, as well.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO DISNEY WORLD

• YOUR THEME PARK VACATION
• ROLLER COASTERS: 9 Thrilling & Fun Disney World Roller Coasters
• PLANNING: WDW Vacation Planning For Beginners
• DISNEY FOR ADULTS: 17+ Fun Things You’ll Love
• MINI GOLF: The Ultimate Disney Mini Golf Guide

WHERE TO STAY IN DISNEY WORLD