Monday, November 23, 2009

Dream the impossible dream - Saving money at Disneyland this holiday season



If you've got children, you know that you will walk over coals to make them happy.  Although some parents opt to avoid the occasional stress involved in taking their kids on a major trip, others realize that traveling is a learning experience that opens up new worlds to your children.  Once you realize that you would like to plan a family vacation, it's not difficult to narrow down the choice of destination.  Ask your child where they want to go this year, and chances are they will say "Disneyland."

Who couldn't love this mecca of happiness? For kids, it's a chance to jump into a fairytale of dreams comes true and wishes realized. Parents love the chance to see their baby's face light up when they meet a Princess or a Galactic Hero.  For a family vacation, it's a win-win situation. The only downside? Disney will empty your pocketbook faster than an electronics store at Christmas. 

If you want to do Disneyland this holiday season, you are going to need some solid advice on saving money.  Yes, it can be done.  You just need to know where to look for answers:

  • Food is important. Make eating part of your plans: Yes, it sounds ridiculous.  Of course you have to eat! The real question is where are you going to eat? It's all too easy to just grab something at the park, and they do have a wide variety of items to choose from.  If you want to save money on eating, plan on grabbing one major meal outside of the park.  As dinner is by far the most expensive meal of the day, leave the park at 4 pm and head out to a local restaurant.  There are many options nearby, including buffets, pizza, and fast food.  Keep in mind that breakfast is often provided by many local hotels, so that will save you money as well. 
  • Avoid the extras that aren't really necessary: Souvenirs are an important part of any holiday, but do you really need those extra fridge magnets? Clothing and costumes in the park cost extra above and beyond what you would pay on the Disney web site.  Come to the park prepared with your Tinkerbell shirt already on and your daughter's Cinderella gown pressed and ready to wear.  
  • Know where to go for great deals: Not everyone knows that there are thousands upon thousands of dedicated Disney fans that post to Facebook and Twitter every single day.  Find out the best place to eat lunch, the best price on a character breakfast, and the sneaky little places to save on coffee or hot dogs. Keeping up with these folks can also let you in on secret places in Disney and the quietest times of the year to visit.  To find them, search on Twitter under "Disney"
  • Rent your baby gear before you go:  This is important, because stroller rentals at Disney will cost you a minimum of $15 per day for one stroller and $25 per day for two.  Disney no longer rents double strollers.  Save yourself money and give yourself the gift of convenience by renting your stroller through Travel BaBees.  We have double, single, and jogging strollers.  Delivered straight to your hotel, it really is your best bet for a full week stay at Disney. 
You really can't beat a trip to Disneyland, and going prepared is your best option for relaxing and having a great time with your kids.  

Enjoy the lights, the magic, and the enchantment that is Disneyland this holiday season. 




No comments:

Post a Comment