I highly suggest experiencing Disney World with a baby or young toddler. They may not remember it when they are older, but you will, and boy are the memories sweet! Seeing their little faces light up with all of the magic around them is priceless. As much as making memories is important, it is also a good idea to stick to your budget and save money where you can.
You may not realize there are many ways to save money when bringing your littlest one’s to Disney. If you’re already planning a trip, then adding on a child under the age of three really does not cost you much extra. Simple tricks help to decrease this cost even more.
Six Ways to Save Money with Babies and Toddlers in Walt Disney World
1. Babies and Toddlers under the age of 3 are FREE
No matter the theme park ticket type, anyone under the age of 3 is free to enter the Disney Parks with their family. Theme park tickets are obviously very pricey, so take your youngest ones without feeling guilty for spending so much money on something they won’t be able to appreciate fully.
2. Save Money by Bringing Your Own Snacks
My toddlers love snacks, and I’m sure that yours do as well. Disney is known for it’s delicious treats, but they are quite expensive. If you know your kids will be enjoying many snacks throughout the day and you want to keep costs down, then bring snacks into the parks. You are allowed to bring snacks in as long as you follow the Official Disney Park Rules. No glass containers (except baby food jars), no large coolers, and no alcohol.
3. Buy Souvenirs Ahead of Time
There are so many souvenir options in Disney World. Your toddlers will probably be intrigued by all of the stuffed animals, toys, and the glow and bubble wands. I have found it helpful to buy souvenirs ahead of time and give them to my kids in the parks or in the hotel when they are really wanting something new. Don’t get me wrong, if my kids find something they absolutely love in a store and it is in the budget, I will get them it as a fun surprise now and then, but definitely not all the time.
4. You will Save Money if You Bring Your Own Stroller
Bring Your own strollers! Not only will your kids be more comfortable, you will save a lot of money. There are outside companies you can rent strollers from, but they are still quite pricey. Renting strollers in the parks will add up. See Official Disney Stroller Rental information for exact pricing. They are also very hard, uncomfortable, and have very minimal storage. I would not recommend using them for a baby or young toddler anyway.
5. Babies and Toddlers Eat for Free in Restaurants Under the Age of 3
Since you aren’t paying for a park ticket, Disney doesn’t expect for you to pay for a full meal for your littles ones either. This is true for both in and outside of the parks.You can’t order them their own personal meals, but they are free to eat as much as they want off of your plates with no extra fee. This is especially great at buffets!
6. Don’t Buy Baby Products on Property
Now if you are in a pinch and need pacifiers, diapers, wipes, or whatever it is, it’s great that Disney has these things available. BUT…they are more expensive than if you bought them off property. If you are traveling to Disney World for a vacation and are staying in one of the Resorts, plan to use a delivery service or just pack all of your baby supplies.
