These Money-Saving Disney World Tips Are Gold, According to Redditors

A Walt Disney World arch gate on the road in Orlando, Florida, USA.

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Magic Kingdom Money Savers

Want to take an affordable vacation? Avoid going to Disney World. 


That's easier said than done if you’re a parent who wants to make your kids’ childhood dreams come true. If you're going to make the trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth, there are ways to save money, time, and maybe even your sanity at Disney World. These Redditors shared their go-to Disney World tips that can help cut costs. 


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Order Groceries

Food is so cheap at Walt Disney World Resort, said no one ever. Many Redditors are big fans of ordering groceries in advance and having them delivered to the hotel upon arrival. Grocery must-haves include quick-to-eat breakfast items, plus lunch and snacks that won’t spoil while sitting in your backpack all day.


Related: Expensive Mistakes to Avoid at Disney

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BTW, Water Is Free

Disney parks have water stations all over the place, so why are you buying expensive water bottles in the first place? Bring an empty bottle to refill all day instead.


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Eat Kids' Meals

Kids' meals at Disney are cheaper (as they well should be), so save a few bucks by ordering one for yourself, too. This is also great for portion control so you can save up for that Dole Whip.

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Pack Light

Sure, you could save twenty bucks here and there by bringing your own drinks or snacks, but some Redditors point out that you’ll be carrying gallons on your back in the searing heat like a pack mule all day.


Maybe it’s worth it to spend $12 for some overpriced snack if it saves your back.

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Weigh Transportation Costs

Some Redditors recommend parking or staying at Disney Springs and taking the shuttle to the parks to save some money. Others say shuttles are a huge waste of time, and that it’s worth spending a few dollars more to get an Uber. The choice is yours.

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Use Your Own Camera

PhotoPass is Walt Disney World's official photography service. Photographers are scattered throughout the park to catch you in those “magical” moments — for a steep price, of course. It costs $199 to buy the Memory Maker where you can access all those photos (or $169 if you buy it in advance). Redditors in the know share that you can also ask a PhotoPass photographer to take your picture with your own camera — for free.

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Write a List

To avoid going over budget, write out exactly how much you are willing or able to spend on souvenirs and food each day, suggests a Redditor. List your top choice souvenirs and must-visit restaurants, and stick to a plan so you aren't throwing away money on the things that aren't as important.