How To Save Money on Food at Disney

 

Okay, being a foodie like myself, it almost hurts me to write this because Disney has so many food options to rave about that teaching you how to skip out on some of them hurts a little bit, but we all know how expensive a Disney trip can be so whenever we can save some money it is important, and I am going to give you some tips on how to do this. Now, if you just have to have that special Mickey Mouse shaped treat or eat at your fave Disney Restaurant, do it!! You have to do what is going to create the most magical experience, but if you are willing to do some of these things, I promise, they will help.

BEVERAGES:

When it comes to beverages, try to skip out on ordering things like soda, juice, and milk (the costs on these things add up when you are in the park). If you can carry your own water bottles in a backpack and keep the bag in a stroller so that you do not have to carry it this is a good option (we freeze some the night before). If you do not have the ability to carry your own water bottles do not worry because you can get free cups of water at certain locations all around the park and when you are eating at restaurants. Another thing that we do is bring along some Gatorade packs to add to the water or flavor packs as well. If you just have to get your caffeine fix, you should have free coffee at your resort that you can drink as well.

Pack Your Own Snacks:

If you can bring some snacks in your bag to the park this is also very helpful.  We often bring things like granola bars, fruit snacks, nuts, trail mix, raisins, dried fruit, or cereal bars. I have celiac disease and it is not always easy to find gf snacks so this really helps me.  I do plan on doing some blogs on gluten free options on your Disney trip as well, so if anyone in your family has gluten intolerance or allergy, make sure to look out for those blogs as well.

Eat at Quick-Service Restaurants:

When we go into the parks, we will typically do 1 quick service meal at lunch and then a nice sit down option for dinner.  If we are going to be in Disney for multiple days then we do not always do sit down everyday because this can add up rather quickly.  We pick our fave sit down places and other than that we opt for quick-service.  Disney has so many wonderful options for quick service so you will not be disappointed.

Eat Breakfast in the Resort Room:

Before you head into the park, eat your breakfast in your room. We almost ALWAYS do this and it saves up big.  We bring our own cereal from home and purchase milk when we get there and keep it in the mini fridge.  You can also bring cereal bars, fruit, or muffins.  Whatever is easy to take with you and enjoy before heading out. Trust me that this will save you a lot of money.  

Skip Character Meals:

I know that character dining can be a lot of fun and if this is something that you really want to do or at least try once than I totally understand, however, character dining is some of the most expensive dining in Disney.  So, you might want to meet as many characters in the parks as possible and skip the character meals to save. I will be talking about how to eat at places like this and still save in upcoming blogs, but for now my tip would be if it is not a must do for your family, you can save by skipping on character meals.

Dining Plan:

This is something that can either save money for your family (if you have big eaters, kids under the age of 10, or want to use points for things like character or fine dining).  It might not be worth it if your family does not have big eaters or your kiddos are over the age of 10. 

Note: Once kids are over 10, Disney prices on everything from tickets to Dining Plans are adult prices. 

I should also tell you that right now Dining Plans are not an option, but I am sure Disney will bring them back at some point.

Buffet Meals:

Buffet meals can be pricey, however there are a few places where it might be worth it.  Trail's End in Ft Wilderness is a more affordable buffet option and they have some really great food! Also, Liberty Tavern in the Magic Kingdom is affordable and a good option as well.  So if you are really hungry and still want an affordable meal, look into these options for your family.

Share Dessert:                                                                                                                                              

If you are willing to share on your yummy dessert, this can be another way to save.  We had some creme brulee as a family while in France that we shared and it did not disappoint!

Annual Pass or Disney Visa:

The last way that I will tell you to save money is by utilizing those Annual Passholder discounts or discounts for being a Disney Visa Cardholder. Not all locations will offer these discounts (just make sure to ask while paying for your meal).  If discounts are offered they are typically anywhere from 10-20% (this would also apply to some beverages and snacks if you opt to purchase those). And do not forget about points that you earn on your Disney Visa purchases, these can add up and you can choose to use them to help pay for your dining.

Well, I hope these tips can help you on saving some money on your next Disney vacation.  Hey! Send me some pics of that yummy food you ate while visiting!!

                                                   And don't forget to have a Magical Day!!!