I like to think I know a thing or two about getting through a Disney holiday and on a tight budget and today I share them with you
A trip to Disneyland is a dream come true for many. I'd say we've been privileged enough to jet off three times to France but the truth is I saved my ass off. It was worth every wild Saturday night in just to see my daughter's reaction to meeting her then idols. I'll never forget the time my firstborn set eyes upon Snow White. We had just arrived in the park and found ourselves strolling through Fantasyland and there she was. Hair as black as ebony. Lips as red as rose. Skin as white as snow. Snow White skipped passed us with a wink in her eye and bowed before my then two-year-old who practically fell to her feet in awe. She's seven now and she still goes on and on it.
I like to think I know a thing or two about getting through a Disney holiday and on a tight budget and today I share them with you.
- Disneyland is HUGE! If you have children under five bring a stroller. You could rent one at Disneyland but it will add up during the course of your stay. I also recommend bringing a lock too. I never thought I'd hear the likes of buggies going missing at Disney but it happens.
- If you are planning on buying some gifts to bring home it's probably best to shop during the day as Disney shops are mayhem in the evenings. Shop before 4 pm to avoid the crowds and have your goods delivered to your Disney Hotel free of charge.
- Disney have a baby switch facility if you have young children with you. Parents can ride in turn without having to queue up twice. On some rides, you can actually skip right to the top too.
- Soft drinks and water at Disney are extortionate. Bring water bottles. There are plenty of fountains to refill it throughout the parks. And if you choose to get fizzy drinks throughout the park get a refill cup, it will save you a fortune in the long run.
- If your kid likes to dress up, stock up. Disney themed costumes can set you back easily fifty quid an outfit. I kid you not. Hide some costumes in the suitcase and surprise them once you've arrived. Oh, and from experience children in costume definitely get more attention from the cast members.
- Try to eat at unusual times. Disney restaurants do be mayhem. Try to avoid usual lunch and dinner times. You could be queuing up for lunch at 1 pm for a good half hour. Your time at Disney is precious, eat earlier or bring a snack to keep you going until after the mad rush.
- Unless you fancy paying a tenner for an autograph book and €4 for a character pen, pick up a Disney diary and colourful pen before you travel.
- If you happen to be unfortunate enough to arrive at Disney and it's raining head to Walt Disney Studios and catch all the shows. It rained and rained on our last visit but managed to catch every show throughout the park and it was amazing! It also a good time to check out Disney Village too. It can be just as fun as the parks. Kids can play in the Lego Store, they can make light sabers and Toy Story Mr and Mrs Potato Heads in another and not forgetting ‘Croc’ outside our favourite restaurant Rainforest Cafe. My kid could have stood there and watched him for days.
- Download the app ‘Wait Times Disneyland Paris’. It's available for both iPhone and Android and displays attraction wait times. Another great one is the 'Disneyland Paris' app. You can keep up to date with Disney news and study the Disneyland map prior to visiting. It's an invaluable app before and during your stay!
- Bring a heap of snacks and treats. Sweets are way over priced. A small pack could set you back a fiver. Pick up some treats in Dealz or Mr.Price before you go. It will save you a small fortune. For added brownie points try to get some with Disney characters on them too and they will love you forever.
Written by Kellie Kearney staff writer at Family Friendly HQ.
