We all know that the prices of food has gone way up. Even at the parks a Turkey leg that once cost you around $7 to $8 a piece has now doubled in cost. Between the cost of tickets, and hotel fees a trip to Disney is expensive enough as it is. That doesn’t even include all the merch that you will want to bring back.
So I thought I would share some of the ways I plan to save on food on my next Disney trip (thank you to everyone who answered my question about saving money on meals while at Disney).
We have always driven to Florida for vacation so one way we were able to save money was by stocking up on groceries when we arrived or at least trying to eat most of our meals off property at local fast food places or restaurants.
We also take snacks into the park (yes, Disney will allow you to bring food in as long as it’s not in a glass container).
As much as I love eating at Ohana on our trip, I do try to limit those special meals to no more than one or two sit down meals per trip.
Quick service meals may not be as fun as a character meal or fancy resort restaurant but it will save you so much money in comparison.
One thing I’ve never done but will definitely consider doing on this upcoming trip is ordering a child’s meal at the quick service places (more than likely you will be unable to do this at a sit down restaurant).
One thing I regret not doing on my last trip was sharing a meal with my husband or daughter. When we are at Wilderness Lodge and Be Our Guest at Magic Kingdom my daughter and I could have easily split our sandwich with one another (the portions are huge).
Ohana (family style).
The famous cheeseburger rolls (found at the entrance to Adventureland).
The counter service restaurant at All Star Music.
Although the initial cost of this cup might give you sticker shock (almost $22.00 at the time of this blog) if you are a soda drinker then it’s worth the cost. Also there are no rule that says every person in your party has to get a mug (just keep in mind there is a time lapse for when you can refill your cup). A couple could easily share one cup.
Like I said, don’t forget that you can purchase a child size meal and it usually includes a small drink, and your choice of fruit and or fries.
Disney Magic is always in the air. If you are celebrating a special occasion there is always the chance that a cast member will treat you to a special snack or dessert for free.
Tusker House at Animal Kingdom
The Garden Grill at Epcot
A character meal will cost you a bit more but if you have little ones that you think might enjoy meeting Mickey and friends but probably won’t last in a long line it’s worth a consideration.
A simple hotdog and fries from Casey’s corner is always an option. And don’t forget to ask for a cup of free ice water at the kiosks/quick service locations throughout the parks. It beats spending $4.00 to $5.00 for a bottle of water.
A fulfilling meal at Galaxy’s Edge.
Of course the ultimate way to save money would be to stay at a value resort or off property hotel with a full kitchen or kitchenette (All Star Music has a family suite with microwave, full size fridge and sink where you could make your own meals, or at least eat a cold breakfast in your room that morning (and then perhaps during your break make sandwiches and chips).
Note that the All Star resorts do have a toaster and microwave in the food court that you could use in heat up leftovers. Whatever you decide to do, consider making out a budget sheet ahead of your trip so that you have some idea of what you want to spend (or splurge on). Thank you to my Disney daughter Q for providing the majority of the photos for this post!
