How to Plan a Disney World Trip on a Budget

A dream is a wish your heart makes, when you’re fast asleep—right? Well now you can make that dream a reality with visiting Walt Disney World! It doesn’t have to be a complicated process and it doesn’t have to drain your wallet either. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couple’s getaway, or a solo adventure, there are many ways to save while still enjoying all the magic Disney has to offer and I’ll show you how!

Keep in mind the experiences you want to have while at Walt Disney World with the budget you set will determine how much your trip will cost. Here are a few things to consider when planning your trip because the question I often hear is “What Is the Cheapest Month to Go to Disney?”

• Travel during off-peak times: Visiting in January, February, or September not only saves money but also means shorter lines and less-crowded parks.
• Look for vacation packages: Bundle your hotel, tickets, and dining plan (when available) for added savings.
• Stay off-site: Hotels near Disney World often have lower prices and offer perks like free shuttles.
• Bring your own food: Save on dining by packing snacks, water, and simple meals.

By planning ahead, you can take advantage of discounts, choose the right timing, and even reduce stress. My trusted travel partner Get Away Today makes it even easier to lock in the best deals and enjoy a magical trip on a budget.

Traveling to Disneyworld during off-peak times

As mentioned earlier, visiting in the months like January, February, or late August through September can save money. Coming during this time may also mean less-crowded parks and shorter wait times for attractions. Timing is everything when it comes to Disney vacations.

January through mid-February: Cooler weather and post-holiday calm make this an affordable time to visit.

Late August through September: As schools reopen, crowds thin, and prices tend to drop. Keep in mind that certain attractions and entertainment may not be available if it is seasonally based.

January February	EPCOT International Arts Festival
March June	EPCOT International flower and Garden Festival (spring time)
July	EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
August October	Halloween & Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (private ticketed event at Magic Kingdom after hours). Experience the fun Halloween decor, seasonal menu items and fun merchandise throughout the parks.
November December	EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, Jollywood Nights (private ticketed event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios after hours) & Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas (private ticketed event at Disney Hollywood Studios after hours) Experience holiday decorations throughout all four theme parks (I.e., Disney World, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios), the Disney Resort Hotels and Disney Springs.

Look for vacation packages 

Bundling your hotel, tickets, and dining plans (when available) will make for the BEST DEALS! This is why I love booking my trips with Get Away Today and by booking them early, I get to experience a vacation that feels luxurious at a lower price point that booking without a vacation package. Plus their staff frequently does hotel tours, cruises and theme park visits so you get the most up to date reviews. I have joined them on some of these to help bring you the best possible tips and deals. Make sure you use my code ANGIE10 for extra saving at checkout or when you call, let them know Angie’s Magical Style sent you!

How Many Days Should I Spend at Walt Disney World?

A common question when planning a Walt Disney World vacation is, “How many days should I stay?” The answer depends on how much magic you want to experience and which parks you plan to visit.

• The full Disney experience: If you want to explore all four theme parks without feeling rushed, plan for at least five nights or more to fully enjoy the rides, shows, and dining experiences.
• Shorter stays: If you’re visiting only one or two parks, a three to four night trip can still give you a great experience without feeling overwhelming.
• More days = More savings: The longer you stay, the more you save per day on park tickets, making a week-long trip the best value for your Disney vacation especially when you book through Get Away Today.

Giving yourself extra time means less rushing, more flexibility, and the chance to soak in every magical moment.

Walt Disney World Ticket Types – How to Find the Best Option for Your Trip

When planning your Walt Disney World vacation, choosing the right ticket type is key to making the most of your visit. Disney offers two main ticket types and additional add-ons to customize your experience.

• One Park per Day Ticket: Allows entry into one of Disney’s four theme parks per day.
• Park Hopper Ticket: Gives you the flexibility to visit multiple parks in the same day.
• Water Park and Sports Add-On: Expands your 1 Park per Day ticket to include water parks and sports activities.
• Park Hopper Plus Add-On: Adds water parks and sports access to your Park Hopper ticket for even more fun.

Walt Disney World Resort 1 Park per Day Tickets

A 1 Park per Day ticket (formerly known as a base ticket) is the most budget-friendly way to experience Walt Disney World. Tickets can be purchased in 1 to 10 day increments, allowing you to visit one park per day without park-hopping.

With this ticket, you can explore any of Disney’s four main theme parks, choosing a different park each day or revisiting your favorite:

• Magic Kingdom Park
• EPCOT
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

For example, a 3-day 1 Park per Day ticket allows you to visit up to three different parks, or spend all three days at your favorite. However, once you enter a park, you cannot switch parks that same day unless you have a Park Hopper ticket.

Important: In addition to your theme park ticket, you must have a theme park reservation to enter any Walt Disney World park. Booking in advance ensures the best availability for your visit.

Pros and Cons of 1 Park per Day Tickets – Is It the Right Choice for You?

A 1 Park per Day ticket is the most affordable way to experience Walt Disney World, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers or first-time visitors. If you’re wondering how much a Walt Disney World vacation costs, this ticket type can help keep expenses in check.

Pros of 1 Park per Day Tickets:

• Budget-friendly: The least expensive Disney ticket option, helping you save money on your trip.
• Less stress, more focus: Committing to one park per day makes it easier to plan your itinerary without feeling rushed.
• Great for families with kids: Avoids the hassle of moving between parks, allowing young children more time to enjoy attractions.
• Come and go as you please: You can leave and return to the same park throughout the day, perfect for midday breaks at your hotel.

Cons of 1 Park per Day Tickets:

• Limited flexibility: You can only visit one park per day, which may be restrictive if entertainment schedules or park hours change.
• No Park Hopping: If you like spontaneous plans or want to experience evening entertainment in a different park, this ticket may feel limiting.
• Travel time between parks can be long: While Disneyland guests are used to hopping parks in minutes, Walt Disney World parks are farther apart, often requiring 20-40 minutes of travel time.

If you’re on a tight budget or want a more relaxed pace, a 1 Park per Day ticket is a fantastic choice. But if you crave flexibility and the ability to experience multiple parks in one day, you may want to consider a Park Hopper ticket instead.

Water Park and Sports Option – Add Even More Fun to Your Disney Vacation

The Water Park and Sports Option is a great way to expand your Disney experience beyond the theme parks. This add-on for 1 Park per Day tickets gives you access to a variety of water parks and recreational activities, adding even more fun to your visit.

What’s Included in the Water Park and Sports Option?

With this ticket upgrade, you’ll get one visit per day to any of the following:

• Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park – A winter-themed water park with thrilling slides and a lazy river.
• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – Home to one of the largest wave pools in the world and a tropical paradise for water lovers.
• Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course – A scenic 9-hole walking course, great for golfers of all skill levels.
• Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course – FootGolf – A fun blend of soccer and golf on a specially designed course.
• Disney’s Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course – A whimsical, music-themed mini-golf course (valid before 4:00 p.m.).
• Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course – A holiday-themed mini-golf experience with two unique courses.

How the Water Park and Sports Option Works

• You receive one visit per ticketed day (e.g., a 4-day ticket gives you four visits to use).
• You do not have to use these visits on the same days as your theme park visits.
• All visits must be used within your ticket’s expiration window.

Things to Keep in Mind with the Water Park and Sports Option

• Availability varies – Some experiences may have time or day restrictions.
• Great for non-park days – Use these visits on rest days between theme park visits for a relaxing break.
• More fun for your budget – This add-on provides extra activities at a lower price than buying separate admissions.

If you’re looking to enhance your Disney World vacation with water parks, mini-golf and more, the Water Park and Sports Option is a fantastic way to add extra magic to your trip.

Walt Disney World Park Hopper Tickets – More Flexibility for Your Vacation

If you’re looking for more flexibility during your Disney vacation, Park Hopper tickets allow you to visit multiple parks in a single day. Just like the “1 Park per Day” ticket, a Park Hopper ticket grants access to all four Disney World theme parks:

• Magic Kingdom Park
• EPCOT
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

The biggest difference? You aren’t limited to just one park per day. For example, with a 3-day Park Hopper ticket, you can start your day in one park and then hop to another park later in the day, making it easy to mix and match your experiences.

How to Use Park Hopper Tickets

• Begin your day at any Disney theme park.
• After 2:00 p.m., you can switch to another park (subject to capacity limits).
• You can hop to as many parks as you like until closing time.
• No reservations are needed for the second park—just check availability before hopping.

Many guests start their mornings in one park and finish their day in another, whether it’s enjoying Hollywood Studios in the morning and ending the night with fireworks at Magic Kingdom, or hopping from Animal Kingdom to EPCOT for a relaxing evening.

Park Hopper Plus – The Ultimate Disney Ticket

For the most flexible Disney ticket option, Park Hopper Plus offers all the benefits of Park Hopper, plus extra experiences across Walt Disney World Resort.

What’s Included in Park Hopper Plus?

In addition to hopping between the four theme parks, this ticket allows one extra visit per day to the following locations:

• Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
• Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course
• Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course – FootGolf
• Disney’s Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course (valid before 4:00 p.m.)
• Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course

For example, if you purchase a 5-day Park Hopper Plus ticket, you’ll get five extra visits to use however you like. If you want to relax at a water park in the morning and then play mini-golf in the evening, those activities won’t count as a theme park day, but they will each use one of your extra experience visits.

This is a great way to maximize your vacation if you want to mix theme park days with more relaxing experiences. Keep in mind that some locations may have time or day restrictions and all visits must be used within your ticket’s expiration window.

Pros and Cons of Park Hopper Tickets

Pros:

• More flexibility – Explore multiple parks in one day.
• Great for special events – Avoid early closings for seasonal parties like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party by hopping to another park in the evening.
• Perfect for shorter trips – Experience more parks in less time.
• Enjoy nighttime entertainment – Catch Happily Ever After fireworks at Magic Kingdom or EPCOT’s nighttime spectacular even if you spent the day at another park.

Cons:

• Travel time – Disney parks are spread out, and it can take 20-40 minutes to hop from one park to another.
• Higher cost – Park Hopper tickets are more expensive than 1 Park per Day tickets.
• Can be tiring – Hopping between parks requires extra energy and planning.

If you want the most flexibility and the biggest Disney experience, Park Hopper Plus is the way to go. Whether you’re splitting your day between parks or adding water park fun, this ticket gives you more ways to enjoy Walt Disney World.

How Much Are Disney World Vacation Packages?

Walt Disney World vacation packages offer a convenient way to bundle your hotel, tickets, and optional add-ons, providing both savings and simplicity. The cost varies depending on the resort category and extras you choose. Here are some rough estimates for what you can expect for a Disney World Vacation Package.

• Value Resorts: Start at around $2,000 for a 4-night stay for a family of four.
• Moderate Resorts: Range from $3,000 to $4,000 for similar trips.
• Deluxe Resorts: Offer premium amenities starting at $5,000 or more.

Using a travel partner like Get Away Today allows you to secure packages with just a $50 deposit and enjoy flexible payment plans. You’ll also have access to discounts, concierge services, and exclusive perks to make your trip even more magical.

How Much Is a Trip to Disney World for 2 Adults?

Planning a Disney World trip for two adults can be more affordable than you think, especially if you choose budget-friendly options for lodging and tickets. The total cost depends on your preferences for accommodations, dining, and activities.

• Off-site hotel + base tickets: around $1,500 for a 4-day trip.
• Value Resort + tickets: around $2,000 for a 4-day stay.
• Moderate Resort with Park Hopper tickets: around $2,500 for added flexibility.

To further reduce costs, consider skipping the Park Hopper option and dining at quick-service restaurants. Booking through a trusted travel partner can help you maximize your budget while ensuring a seamless experience.

Can You Bring Food into Disney World?

Yes, Disney World allows guests to bring their own food and drinks into the parks, making it a great way to save on meal costs. This is especially helpful for families or anyone with dietary restrictions.

• What’s allowed: Pre-packaged snacks, sandwiches, bottled water, and non-alcoholic drinks.
• What’s prohibited: Glass containers, loose ice, and alcohol.

Bringing your own food is not only budget-friendly but also saves time waiting in line for meals. Many guests pack a cooler bag with essentials, leaving room in the budget for special treats like Mickey-shaped snacks or Dole Whip.

Walt Disney World Hotels: Staying On-Site vs. Off-Site

Choosing the right place to stay is one of the biggest decisions when planning your Disney World vacation. On-site hotels immerse you in the Disney magic, while off-site accommodations offer more budget-friendly options.

• On-site benefits: Early park entry, complimentary water park admission (starting 2025), and seamless access to the parks.
• Off-site perks: Lower nightly rates, larger accommodations, and free shuttles to Disney World.

For first-time visitors or those looking for convenience, staying on-site is worth the added cost. However, off-site hotels near Disney World can be a great choice for families needing extra space or travelers on a tighter budget.

Is a Walt Disney World Vacation All-Inclusive?

While Disney vacations aren’t entirely all-inclusive, their packages come close, bundling hotel stays, theme park tickets, and sometimes dining plans. These packages simplify planning and can save money compared to booking everything separately.

• Included: Hotel accommodations, tickets, optional dining plans (seasonal availability).
• Not included: Flights, parking, and souvenirs.

For the most all-inclusive experience, consider packages that include dining or opt for seasonal promotions like free dining plans offered by Disney. Booking with Get Away Today ensures you get the best value, thanks to their price monitoring and concierge services.

Walt Disney World Hotels: Staying On-Site vs. Off-Site 

Choosing the right place to stay is one of the biggest decisions when planning your Disney World vacation. On-site hotels immerse you in the Disney magic, while off-site accommodations offer more budget-friendly options.

Off Site Hotels

Hotels near Disney World often have lower prices and offer perks like free shuttles. The good neighbor Disney hotels are a great option for this reason! Lower nightly rates, larger accommodations, and free shuttles to Disney World. For first-time visitors or those looking for convenience, staying on-site is worth the added cost. However, off-site hotels near Disney World can be a great choice for families needing extra space or travelers on a tighter budget.

• Orlando World Center Marriott
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Orlando Flamingo Crossings
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando Flamingo Crossings
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando at Flamingo Crossings
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Near Universal Orlando
• Fairfield Inn Lake Buena Vista in Marriott Village
• Sonesta ES Suites Orlando – International Drive
• Sheraton Orlando – Lake Buena Vista Resort
• The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando
• Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando at Flamingo Crossings
• Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa 
• Courtyard Lake Buena Vista in Marriott Village Orlando
• Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista- Disney Springs Resort Area
• SpringHill Suites Lake Buena Vista in Marriott Village Orlando

On Site Hotels

If you are wanting a more luxurious stay consider booking on Disney property because you get additional perks like earlier entry into the theme park and other exclusives extras like complimentary water park admission (starting 2025), and seamless access to the parks.

Value Walt Disney World Resort Hotels 

• Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Moderate Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

• The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wildness Resort
• The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
• Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
• Disney’s Coronado Spring Resort
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside

Deluxe Walt Disney World Resort Hotels & Villas

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas- Jambo House
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas- Kidani Village
• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Ready to Make the Magic Happen?

Planning a Disney World vacation doesn’t have to be overwhelming—or expensive. With the right timing, strategies, and the help of trusted partners, you can enjoy a trip filled with magic and memories. Book your next adventure through my partner, Get Away Today, to access discounted packages, expert concierge services, and exclusive perks.

Don’t forget to use ANGIE10 for extra savings, or mention Angie’s Magical Style when booking! Be sure to subscribe to my blog for more tips, updates, and Disney content. Together, let’s make your Disney dreams come true!