“Money is something I understand only vaguely, and think about only when I don’t have enough to finance my current enthusiasm, whatever it may be. All I know about money is that I have to have it to do things.” Walt Disney
People will tell you that a trip to the Disney parks is expensive. When I travel with friends I usually spend about $1500 for a five day trip and that includes everything: travel, hotel, park hopper passes, food, and merchandise. I could go for less and I could go for more. Do I think that is expensive? Since it is what I want to do and where I want to be I do not think it is too much. If I did I would stay at different hotels and eat at different restaurants and spend less money. This works for me.
Whether or not Disney is expensive is not my point today. My point is this. No matter whether you are staying off site at an inexpensive motel, or you are staying at the Grand Floridian, bring enough money. No matter whether you are having cereal and milk in your room before coming to the parks, or eating at a character breakfast every morning, bring enough money. Simply put, no matter your situation, bring enough money.
I’m not saying to go into debt just to visit the parks. Many of my goofy tips will be money saving ideas that bring happiness. But nothing brings despair faster than running out of money.
I have been going to the Disney parks since I was four years old. As a kid I didn’t have to pay for the trip, but I always saved my allowance so I would have spending money. Once I became an adult and started paying my own way I noticed that I had a much better time when I was not short on funds. You never know what unexpected situations may happen. Perhaps someone else in your party runs low on money. You could treat them to a meal. Or perhaps you see the perfect gift for someone that you didn’t budget for. Now you can get it for them. But only if you brought enough money.
How much is enough? There is no golden rule, but I aim for 10% more than my budget calls for. On my $1500 trip I would bring an extra $150. I may not spend it, but I have a happier time knowing it is there if I need it.
The book Disney On a Dime by Chris & Kristal Carlson has lots of advice on how to visit the parks on a very small budget. I have used many of their ideas and I will be mentioning this book in future posts. Even though this book shows you how to visit the Disney parks without spending much money, on page 27 it suggests “Budget more than you think you’ll need.” I couldn’t have said it better myself.
Goofy Joke: (Any talk about money should be lightened up with a joke. These are groaners; my favorite type of jokes.)
Q: Why wasn’t Cinderella invited to play soccer?
A: She always ran away from the ball.