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How to Save Money at Disneyland: 20 Must Know Tips

How to Save Money at Disneyland: 20 Must Know Tips

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Are you planning a trip to Disneyland on a budget? Keep scrolling for my top tips on how to save money at Disneyland in California!
This post about how to save money at Disneyland was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

No matter how you do it, Disney vacations can be expensive. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it! Disneyland is one of our favorite places and we’ve found a few ways to make it more affordable.

So, today I figured I’d share a few tips for how to save money at Disneyland for your next trip!

Since I live in Seattle, we have to carefully plan our Disneyland vacations. We have to factor in flights for our family of four, a hotel room, tickets, and any other extras (like character dining.)

Our first family trip to Disneyland was when our oldest was 2.5 years old. I remember him high-fiving Goofy and smiling sheepishly at the Disney Princesses.

At that point, my husband and I knew we wanted to do Disney vacations as often as we could. But, with limited vacation days and the extra cost of getting to California, we knew we needed to be smart about saving money at Disneyland.

Since then, we’ve visited Disneyland many, many, times.

Now, I’m not saying that we always follow these tips. But, these are things we think about when figuring out when we can swing our next Disneyland vacation.

I hope these tips help you figure out your Disneyland budget so you can head to the Happiest Place on Earth!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Disneyland blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Disneyland with kids.

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How to Save Money at Disneyland: 20 Must-Know Tips

1. Travel When School is in Session

If at all possible, plan your Disneyland trip outside of school vacations. This is easiest if your kids aren’t in school yet.

Sometimes schools have in-service or conference days where you can take a long weekend. Check your school calendar to see if there are any no school days that you could build a trip around.

And if you decide that you are going to take your kids out of school to save some money, please check with the teacher and the school district first to make sure you won’t have any issues.

2. Avoid Holidays

If you are going to Disneyland because you have the day off, chances are other people are doing the exact same thing.

The week around Christmas and New Year’s Day is super busy. And the time right before Halloween is also pretty packed.

3. Avoid Convention Dates

If you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for a hotel room, check the Anaheim Convention Center to see if they are hosting a conference/convention.

Since it’s the largest convention center on the West Coast, hotel room prices can be through the roof.

And sometimes there are conferences at a Disneyland hotel.

4. Stay Off-Property

What’s awesome about Disneyland Resort is that you don’t have to stay at one of the Disney hotels for close access to the Parks.

In fact, there are tons of Good Neighbor hotels that are right across the street from the Parks entrance.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly Disneyland hotel, the Castle Inn and Suites in Anaheim is perfect for your budget Disneyland vacation.
The Castle Inn and Suites is a great budget-friendly alternative to Disney hotels. Photo credit: Castle Inn and Suites

The important thing is to not just reserve a room with the lowest rate. Check to see if there are resort fees, parking fees, and other items tacked onto your bill.

You’ll also want to factor in free breakfast, free shuttle to Disneyland, free WiFi, and other discounts or free services when determining which Disneyland hotel is cheapest.

And, you can save even more money if you book a 2 night or more SoCal Vacation through my travel partner Get Away Today. Use the code MM10 to get $10 off your vacation package!

Insider Tip: The Park Vue Inn and the Castle Inn & Suites are awesome value hotels with a very short walk to the Parks entrance!

5. Have a Non-Park Day

Disneyland vacations are a blast, but they can be grueling. Especially if you are getting up early and staying until the fireworks.

Planning a non-Park day is an easy way to save money at Disneyland. We like to use these days for laying low at our hotel and playing in the pool.

Official Goofy's Kitchen character breakfast photo from the Disney PhotoPass photographers #disneyland #goofyskitchen #characterbreakfast
Here’s our official PhotoPass photo with Goofy! Photo credit: Disney PhotoPass photographer

Downtown Disney is also a pretty cool place to get the Disney vibe without purchasing a ticket.

And while this is a spendier option, my family likes doing character dining at one of the Disney hotels on non-Park days. Our favorite right now is breakfast at Goofy’s Kitchen.

Want an epic Disneyland digital guide? This is my favorite Disneyland tool and guide!

6. Don’t Rent a Car

The parking fees at all the hotels are expensive. Once you get to the Disneyland-area, there’s really no reason to rent a car.

Instead, rely on walking or using a hotel shuttle. There’s even the Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) you can take for $5 to get you to the Parks.

And if you are combining your trip to Disneyland with another area in California, wait to rent your car until you need it. There are several car rental places right by Disneyland.

7. Eat Breakfast Before You Get Into the Parks

Find a hotel that serves free breakfast (and read the reviews on TripAdvisor and Get Away Today to see if the breakfast is substantial enough for your family.)

Otherwise, pack some easy breakfast items (like bagels, or muffins.) Or hit up a grocery store for yogurt, milk, cereal, and fresh fruit.

There’s also a McDonald’s and Panera Bread super close to the Parks entrances.

Insider tip: Remember to actually EAT the breakfast so you aren’t hungry by the time you get into the Park!

8. Take Advantage of Free Tickets

I know a lot of parents say they want to wait until their kids are 5 years old before going to Disneyland. That seems to be the magic number parents have in their heads.

But, I personally think the most magical age is right before they turn 3 years old!

How to save money at Disneyland with kids? Babies and kids under 3 years old are free at Disneyland Resort in California.
Babies and kids under 3 years old are FREE at Disneyland Resort! Photo credit: Darren Cheung

Kids under 3 years old get free park admission and they also eat free at Disneyland buffet restaurants (including character dining.)

It’s also an awesome age because they believe they are meeting the “real” characters and that look in their face is just priceless!

Plus, you can usually dress your kids in matching clothes or costumes at that age without them complaining, so you can get those adorable photos of your kids at Disneyland!

9. Bring Your Own Stroller

While it’s definitely tempting to rent a stroller either from Disneyland or one of the stroller rental companies nearby, those costs can add up quickly.

Right now, Disneyland rents strollers for $15 or a double stroller for $30.

If you are traveling with little kids, bringing your own stroller will save you a lot of money. And it’s free to check it on an airplane.

Just be sure your stroller fits within the Disneyland stroller policy.

10. Pre-Purchase Souvenirs

If you have little kids, they are going to want a bubble wand. But those are $25 each inside the Parks.

If you want to know how save money at Disneyland, head to Target, Dollar Tree and Amazon and pre-purchase Disneyland souvenirs.
I found most of these items at Target and Dollar Tree near my house. Photo credit: Marcie Cheung

If you want to save money at Disneyland on souvenirs, it’s smartest to buy stuff ahead of time at Target, Dollar Tree, or Amazon.

Or, if your kids really want to purchase something at Disneyland, they can do the pressed penny machines. It costs 51 cents each time (2 quarters and a penny) and there are machines all over both Parks.

11. Bring Your Own Costumes

If you have a child who might want to dress up (especially after meeting Disney Princesses and seeing other kids walking around in costumes) it’s cheapest to bring your own.

Costco usually has good deals on Disney costumes way before Halloween (I think I saw them in August.) And for other times of the year, ShopDisney has costumes on sale.

Personally, I like to fold up the costumes and put them in little packing cubes that I can stick in my backpack or leave in the stroller.

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    12. Take Your Own Photos

    If the PhotoPass is not in your budget for this Disneyland trip, don’t feel like you have to skip all the photo spots.

    Some of our favorite character meet and greet photos are ones my husband took with his own camera. And I love to take video of my kids meeting their favorite characters!

    Disney PhotoPass photographers will also take photos with your camera or phone after they take the official ones. It’s a free service and you still should get the card so you can see the photos online. If there’s one you love, you can purchase it separately.

    13. Use Cash

    This is kind of an old-school technique, but figure out your daily budget and only bring cash with you. It’s way too easy to swipe a card at Disneyland and every churro and Dole Whip add up.

    By using cash, you’ll have a clear idea of how much you are spending and you’ll know when you need to stop buying stuff!

    This is also a great trick if you are teaching your kids about money. Let them bring their own wallet with cash and they can figure out how they’d like to spend their money.

    14. Pack Your Own Treats

    Part of the Disney magic is eating something shaped like Mickey, right?

    No one likes the feeling of depriving themselves. So, pack some special candy, lollipops, or cookies so you can give in to your sweet tooth without taking out your wallet.

    I like to hit up my local grocery store and get the Mickey-shaped goldfish crackers and Disney fruit snacks.

    If I was a “Pinterest Mom,” I’d make some Mickey-shaped treats and put them in little baggies to bring to the Parks.

    15. Carry Reusable Water Nottles

    No matter where you travel, the quickest way to save a few bucks is to avoid buying drinks at restaurants. The upcharge on them is crazy!

    Instead, invest in a good water bottle and refill it at any Disneyland restaurant for free.

    My husband and I love our Hydro Flasks. They keep ice water icy all day long (yes, even in the blazing hot summer sun!)

    And you can always add some fruit or flavor drops if you get tired of plain water.

    16. Create Your Own Autograph Book

    What’s cool about Disneyland is that you don’t have to buy an official autograph book if you don’t want to.

    The most budget-friendly Disneyland autograph book is a plain notebook that you put Disney stickers on. You can find notebooks and Disney stickers at Dollar Tree or on Amazon.

    I’ve also seen people use photo albums where they stick a photo of the character on one side and a 3 x 5 card with the autograph on the other.

    Personally, we like to bring white photo matte boards and lots of colorful retractable Sharpies and have characters autograph them. Then, we pick our favorite photo of the trip and frame it!

    Insider tip: Keep track of how much it will actually cost to make your autograph book to know if it’s really saving you money 🙂

    17. Split Meals

    Disneyland portions can be quite large. So, order a couple of entrees and share them family style.

    For quick service meals, ask for an extra cup or plate and portion off some food for your kids. That way, everyone has their “own” meals.

    Kids under 3 years old can share off your plate without an additional charge at table service restaurants.

    18. Buy Single Park Tickets

    While the Park Hopper tickets are tempting, it’s cheaper to purchase the standard tickets good for one park each day.

    You’ll also want to figure out exactly how many days you plan on being in the Parks. The more days you go, the cheaper it is per day. But, every day adds up.

    How many days to spend at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure for your next trip to Disneyland with kids, featured by top US Disney blogger, Marcie in Mommyland
    Disney California Adventure Park is worth spending an entire day! Photo credit: Marcie Cheung

    I recommend my travel partner Get Away Today because they offer the cheapest Disneyland tickets and often run crazy awesome sales!

    19. Get a Popcorn Bucket on the First Day

    I don’t know what it is, but popcorn always seems to be a hit with the entire family.

    If you are planning on multiple days in the Parks, invest in a refillable popcorn bucket on your first day. The refills are much cheaper and you’ll save money eating popcorn over other snacks.

    Plus, it will make you thirsty for all the free water you are hauling around!

    20. Have a Plan

    When figuring out how to save money at Disneyland, the best advice I can give you is to have a solid plan.

    Now, you don’t have to have every minute planned out, but it really helps to do your research ahead of time.

    Once you have figured out the best time to go to Disneyland, found your perfect hotel and purchased your Disneyland tickets, you still have some work to do.

    Create a Disneyland packing list and include every single thing on it. You’d be surprised how many things you forget and have to buy once you get to Disneyland (for full price.)

    Make a budget for your trip and divide it up by each day. Think about how much will go toward transportation, food, treats, and souvenirs.

    The biggest budget item in the Parks is food. Figure out which places have the type of food your family likes for the cheapest price. You can find all the Disneyland restaurants here.

    And don’t forget to talk to your family about this plan! You’ll want every family member to understand where you’ll be spending the money (and what items will need to wait until the next trip.)

    Saving Money at Disneyland FAQs

    How much money do you need for a day at Disneyland?

    The cost of a day at Disneyland can vary depending on a number of factors, including the time of year you visit, the number of people in your party, and your spending habits. However, you can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $300 per person per day for park tickets, food, and souvenirs.

    How much money do I need for 3 days at Disneyland?

    The amount of money you need for 3 days at Disneyland will depend on your spending habits and what you want to do during your visit. Disneyland tickets for 3 days start at $355/person. You’ll also need to factor in a hotel stay, which can be $100-$300 per night. And if you plan on eating in the parks, expect to pay $10-$20 per meal.

    When is the best time to visit Disneyland to get the best deals on tickets and accommodations?

    January and February (except for President’s Day weekend) are typically the least crowded months at Disneyland. September is also a great time to go, especially on weekdays. And May can be an affordable time to go as it’s between Spring Break and Summer vacation.

    Are there any discounts or promotions available for Disneyland tickets, hotels, or vacation packages?

    Yes, I highly recommend checking with Get Away Today. They usually have a Disneyland deal going on that will save you a lot of money on your Disneyland package.

    What are the most affordable accommodation options near Disneyland?

    Some of the most affordable hotels near Disneyland resort include Best Western Plus Stovall’s Inn, Days Inn by Wyndham Buena Park, Motel 6 Anaheim Resort Area, and Super 8 by Wyndham Anaheim Resort Area.

    What Disneyland hotels offer free breakfast?

    There are a number of hotels near Disneyland that offer free breakfast including Hyatt House Anaheim Resort, Homewood Suites by Hilton Anaheim Resort, SpringHill Suites Anaheim Resort, Cambria Hotel & Suites Anaheim Resort Area, and Cortona Inn & Suites Anaheim Resort.

    Should I purchase Disney gift cards before my trip?

    Some people purchase discounted Disney gift cards at Target, BJ’s Wholesale, or Sam’s Club. Buying Disney gift cards can be a great way to pay for items at Disneyland while saving money.

    How can I save money on food and dining at Disneyland?

    Quick-service restaurants are a great way to save money on food at Disneyland. They offer a variety of food options at a fraction of the cost of sit-down restaurants.

    You can also split meals or snacks with your family. You can save money on drinks by bringing a refillable water bottle into the park. There are a number of water fountains located throughout the park where you can refill your water bottle for free instead of paying for drinks.

    Are there any discounted multi-day tickets or annual passes available for Disneyland?

    Yes, there are a number of discounted multi-day tickets and annual passes available for Disneyland. Active and retired military personnel can save up to 10% on multi-day tickets.

    There’s also a discount for Southern California residents. I suggest checking Get Away Today to do a price comparison for your trip.

    What are the best ways to save on transportation to and around Disneyland?

    The Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) offers bus service to Disneyland and the surrounding area. This is a great way to save money on parking, and it also helps to reduce traffic congestion.

    There are also a number of hotels in the Anaheim area that offer free parking to their guests. This is a great way to save money on parking, especially if you are staying at the hotel for more than one day.

    Can I bring my own food and drinks into Disneyland to save money?

    Yes, you can bring your own snacks/food and drinks into Disneyland to save money. There are a few restrictions, but you can bring most non-alcoholic food and drinks into the park.

    Just make sure your containers don’t exceed 12 x 12 x 12 inches. You can either carry your food with you or store them in a locker at the Parks.

    Are there any free or low-cost activities available at or around Disneyland?

    There are a number of free activities available in the Downtown Disney District like listening to live music and watching entertainment. You can also pin trade at the World of Disney store.

    Is it cheaper to purchase Disneyland merchandise outside of the park?

    Yes, it is often cheaper to purchase Disneyland merchandise outside of the park. There are a number of stores in the Anaheim area that sell Disneyland merchandise like Target, Walmart, and Walgreens.

    Are there any ways to save on parking at Disneyland or nearby hotels?

    There are many hotels near Disneyland that offer free parking. A few of the most popular options include the Anaheim Desert Inn & Suites, Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel, Best Western Plus Anaheim Inn, Comfort Inn Anaheim Resort, Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance, and the Hilton Garden Inn Anaheim Resort.

    How to Save Money at Disneyland Wrap Up

    I hope this gives you some easy ideas on how to save money at Disneyland without sacrificing the “magic!”

    Visiting Disneyland on a budget is totally possible! Just remember to take time to plan your Disney vacation, carry reusable water bottles, check for discount ticket prices, stay off site, and avoid school breaks.

    Looking for more Disneyland travel resources? Check out where to eat breakfast in Downtown Disney, best Disneyland breakfast spots, guide to Mickey’s Toontown, Disneyland facts you didn’t know, tips for your first trip to Disneyland, and how to visit Disneyland pregnant.

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    Amanda Warfield

    Wednesday 1st of May 2019

    These are all great suggestions! Another I might add would be to take that cash you have planned to use, and get giftcards with it from Costco. You'll save a few extra dollars that way!

    marciecheung

    Thursday 2nd of May 2019

    Oh great idea! Love saving a few extra bucks!

    Julie I Aloha Lovely

    Tuesday 30th of April 2019

    Great tips! We did a lot of these when we did Disneyland and Tokyo Disney last year. Makes a huge difference in cost!

    marciecheung

    Wednesday 1st of May 2019

    Right? Tokyo Disney is on my bucket list! I've heard it's cheaper than Disneyland?

    angela

    Tuesday 30th of April 2019

    These are all such great tips! We are DVC members so have been to Disney World a number of times, but still need to check out Disney Land!

    marciecheung

    Wednesday 1st of May 2019

    Oh for sure! It's smaller than WDW, but it has such a special, magical feel!

    Sheereen | Cups of Coco

    Tuesday 30th of April 2019

    I live close to Disney World and these are great tips I can incorporate when taking my toddler. Thanks!

    marciecheung

    Wednesday 1st of May 2019

    Yep! Most of these tips are universal to any of the Disney Parks!

    leah

    Monday 29th of April 2019

    ok, totally saving this! we are planning a trip in 2 years so here's to hoping things are similar!

    marciecheung

    Monday 29th of April 2019

    With Disney, you just never know! But, I think most of these are safe bets :)

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