Affordable Disney Vacations: Creating Fun and Inexpensive Memories

Planning a visit to Walt Disney World in the near future? If you are trying to make it an affordable Disney vacation, then you should know that there are a number of fun and free (or almost free) things to do while there. Especially when it comes to souvenirs, it is nice to know that you don’t have to spend a fortune to bring home some great Disney memories. So with that in mind, here are 10 ways to maximize your Disney World fun and minimize your wallet at the same time.

1. The Disney resorts are fascinating and beautiful places to visit. The Animal Kingdom Lodge especially should not be missed, as it has several animal observation areas where you can watch giraffes, zebras, etc. walk around right under the hotel room balconies!

2. Spend an afternoon or evening at Disney’s Boardwalk, where you will arcade games and activities just like at the beach.

3. Make sure you take at least one ride on the monorail. For our family, this is a “must-do” on every Disney trip.

4. Ride a Segway. While you can sign up for an actual tour that is a little pricey, you can get a quick “lesson”…and photo op….at Innoventions at Epcot.

5. You don’t have to be extravagant for souvenirs, in fact some of the best souvenirs are the cheapest. Pressed pennies, postcards, pencils, and pins are all very inexpensive and are perfect for those kids who love collecting things.

6. If you have kids, character autographs will probably be a big hit. Turn this into a lasting souvenir by using something other than an autograph book: try tee shirts, hats, posters, or pillowcases instead. Be sure to have the characters use a sharpie for lasting signatures.

7. Try pin trading. It can be addicting, and as a cautionary note, expensive if you are not careful….but if you start small and keep to a budget, your kids….and you…..will have a blast doing it.

8. For an international flavor to your souvenirs, have your children stop at each of the World Showcase countries at Epcot to do the KidCot fun stop activities. They’re fun, they’re educational, and best of all, they make great, free souvenirs.

9. Whether you are staying on or off Disney property, your hotel undoubtedly has a pool, and chances are a pretty neat one at that. Use it! Especially in the summer, the benefits of relaxing at the pool a few hours each day cannot be emphasized enough.

10. Literally take time to smell the roses. After 11+ trips to Walt Disney World, each time we STILL see something we never saw before. Disney World is an absolutely fascinating place to visit, and you should definitely take a few minutes each day to allow yourself to enjoy it.

Affordable Disney vacations are all about maximizing your money, your time, and your experiences. Happily, some of those best experiences will not cost you anything, but will create memories that are truly priceless!

Nancy Bobby has been visiting Disney World for over ten years. Her favorite money saving guide for a Disney vacation has been the Ultimate Disney World Savings Guide. Learn how how to have your own affordable Disney vacation and get her free Disney vacation guide at her website www.theaffordablemouse.com