Planning a trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland? We know that every dollar counts. You’ve worked hard and saved up, and now you’re ready to enjoy the magic of Disney. But here’s the thing—Disney vacations can get expensive fast, and some “extras” just aren’t worth your hard-earned cash.
That said, it’s important to remember: This is your vacation and your money! If any of these extras speak to you, go ahead and splurge guilt-free. But if you’re looking to stretch your budget and maximize your experience, we’ve compiled a list of things you can skip, plus a few splurges that are worth every penny!
Skip the Park Hopper Passes at Walt Disney World
At Walt Disney World, you might be tempted to add the Park Hopper option, but hear us out—skip it. The price hike doesn’t always deliver extra value. Currently, park hopping isn’t allowed until 2:00 pm, so you’re limited in the amount of time you can spend at another park. Plus, each park has so much to offer that dedicating a full day to one park allows you to see and do more than you think!
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting for multiple days, focus on one park each day to avoid the extra cost and the hassle of hopping around.
Character Dining Meals (Stick to Breakfast)
We all love a good character meal, right? It’s an amazing way to meet your favorite Disney characters without waiting in long lines in the parks. However, if you want to save some serious cash, stick to breakfast options.
Why breakfast? Character breakfasts are much cheaper than lunch or dinner options, and they still offer plenty of fun character interactions. Plus, you can fill up early in the day and get a head start on the fun in the parks. Win-win!
Pro Tip: Want to meet characters without the hefty price tag? Consider booking a late breakfast and treating it as brunch to fuel up for a busy day in the parks!
“Must-Have” Merchandise
It’s nearly impossible to resist the allure of Disney merchandise—those Mickey ears, plush toys, and themed apparel seem to call your name from every corner. But before you swipe that card, take a moment to pause and ask yourself: Do I really need this?
Sure, it’s tempting to load up on souvenirs, but it’s easy to overspend on items that will collect dust at home. Instead, look for practical souvenirs like T-shirts or holiday ornaments that you’ll use and treasure for years to come.
Pro Tip: Avoid the “limited edition” hype. Disney always releases new merchandise, so unless something truly speaks to you, don’t feel pressured to buy on impulse. You can often find similar items online for a fraction of the price after your trip!
MagicBand+ (It’s Cute, But…)
Disney recently launched the MagicBand+, which promises to enhance your park experience with interactive features like lighting up during fireworks and responding to Fab 50 character sculptures throughout the parks. While these features are fun, they don’t add much to your overall experience.
Standard MagicBands still handle all your park needs (like park entry, Lightning Lane access, and charging purchases), and they come at a lower price point. Unless you really want that extra bit of interaction, you can safely skip the MagicBand+.
Pro Tip: If you’re nostalgic or a frequent visitor, a regular MagicBand will serve you just fine—there’s no need to upgrade unless you’re all about the extras.
Glow Products (Save Your Dollars!)
As the sun sets and nighttime spectaculars like Happily Ever After or Fantasmic! Get underway, Disney’s glow-in-the-dark merchandise carts come out in full force. These light-up wands, necklaces, and other glowing goodies can be tempting, especially for the little ones. But here’s a budget-friendly trick: Buy glow items ahead of time!
Head to your local dollar store before your trip and grab glow sticks or other light-up accessories. Your kids will still have fun, and you’ll avoid the steep price tags that come with Disney’s official glow products.
Extras That Are WORTH the Splurge
Now that we’ve covered what to skip, here are a few things that we think are worth the money—especially if you want to create lasting memories on your trip.
1. Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
If you’re looking for a fun dinner show that the whole family will love, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is a must. With lively entertainment, delicious food, and plenty of laughs, it’s a splurge that adds extra magic to your vacation.
2. Memory Maker with Disney’s PhotoPass Service
For those who want professional-quality photos capturing all the magical moments, consider the Memory Maker. It may seem like a big expense upfront, but the photos are priceless, especially if it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
3. In-Room Celebrations
Whether it’s your first time visiting or a special occasion, surprising loved ones with an in-room celebration is a unique and magical experience. Disney will decorate your room with themed balloons, treats, and more—it’s an enchanting surprise that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts:
A Disney vacation can be magical without breaking the bank, especially when you know where to save and where to splurge. By skipping certain extras and choosing budget-friendly alternatives, you can focus on what matters most: making memories that will last a lifetime.
Remember, it’s all about planning ahead and deciding what’s most important for you and your family. Whether you’re enjoying a full park day or catching an unforgettable show, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic of Disney without overspending.
So, what will you splurge on during your next Disney trip? Let your budget guide you—and most importantly, have fun!