budget my budget will ya?

[acf_1991]

Reservations made over the phone can be checked online, and payments made online.

You're only talking a 2% difference in taxes, unless taxes are higher down there than they are on the northern end of the state. And that 2% savings isn't going to be savings anymore when you have to pay $50-$100 in baggage fees.





Exactly correct. Last time I heard, the Disneyland CD was about 1/2 the cost of WDW. The reason for this being, DLR attracts a lot more locals, a lot more repeat visitors. They've been there, done that, and have the pictures to prove it. So why are they going to pay $150 for something they see all the time. They had to make it more price attractive. In WDW, it's a lot of first time visitors. First time reactions, first time pictures, and to those guests, those pictures are priceless. So they're more willing to hand over $150 for those priceless photos. The average WDW visitor only visits once every 3-5 years.




Plan for the higher end. If a promotion comes out, or you get a pin code, you can always apply it to your reservation. And they will credit you back the difference. So don't be afraid to book early, rather than waiting for a price drop.



You'll have to think the dining plan out, and it's all going to be based on when and where you buy your annual pass from. The dining plan can only be added when you do a package. A package much include room and tickets and dining plan, for every night of your stay. If you already have your annual pass, it won't do you much good. The only way to book a room without tickets, is to rent DVC points. Members can add the dining plan to any room reservation regardless of package type.

There's also differences in the final clause of the contract. A package must be paid in full 45 days in advance, with an automatic $200 deposit upon reservation.
A room only reservation, only requires a 1 night deposit. The reservation can be canceled up to 7 days prior to arrival with a full refund. Within a 7 day window, you may only make changes to your reservation, if you cancel, you will loose your one night deposit made.



There are about 5 tiers to the Dining Plan. I'll go over the three basic ones. The higher tiers are aimed more for adult couples without children as it includes more "fine dining with alcohol". I know there's plenty of kids that can do fine in that kind of atmosphere, but they probably don't want to spend their entire vacation dining in that manner.

Your basic dining plan.
2 - counter service meals per day - It can be any entrée including platter meals. Plus a drink. Some platter meals, especially the breakfast ones with eggs, bacon, pancakes, and potatoes can easily feed two light eaters in the morning.
2 - snacks per day - Any single serve item up to $4 in value. People used to get away with buying a large bag of potato chips because the cost is only 3.99... but Disney got smarter.
1 resort refillable mug - You'll find an open drink station in every food court, which allows you cold and hot drinks. Milk, OJ and juice are not on the open bar, but you can use a snack credit or with your meal get a bottle of one of these. If you drink coffee in the morning, you can grab two bottled drinks with your entrée to bring with you into the park for later.

The second step up.
1 - counter service meal
1 - table service meal - It can be any entrée, but no alcohol, and you must pay an 18% tip. So there's some additional costs to this option if you choose it.
1 - snack per day

The third step up.
3 - table service meals per day. This can get costly with tip. But it works for those that like to experience the more finer dining Disney has to offer.
2 - snacks per day
1 - resort refillable mug

Some dining options, like Cindy's or California Grill will require two credits. So for those that like the two credit dining, it's easier to go with the deluxe plan, but that's also a lot of sitting and eating around the World. Not exactly the choice to make if you want to stay on the move.




I've been watching prices myself, I'm hoping to fly a friend out from Orlando to go with me to Disneyland. Consistently, prices have been under $200 each way on Southwest. I haven't seen a better deal on another airline, but it doesn't mean that it can't happen. I'd average about $700-$800 for the plane tickets.




I believe the TIW card is also good for counter service options. Although it wouldn't be needed if you are on the dining plan. But since most passholders do not book with the dining plan, this is another option for them to get a discount on their dining.

You've got a lot of homework to do. You also have about 5 months before you can get any ball rolling. Reservations for the following year usually don't open up until about late Oct/November.

I think I will make all reservations over the phone then. Thanks for that insight. Down here in Southern California the tax is almost 10%, is that the same as Northern?
I would have never thought of taking my photopass card and back. I will do that, any money saving ideas thrown at me I will catch with no hesitation.

Now would you by any chance know how the photography session works? The one that is taken at one of thet hotels and can be put on the photopass cd as well?
I am definitely planning for the higher end

Thank you for all of your advice, you have no clue how much you have helped me out.

With the amount you are budgeting for food...definitely add the dining plan. As far as cake, I wouldn't even worry about it. If your DD wears wears a Birthday Pin she will get a free cupcake at just about every restaurant you eat at so that will be plenty. If you like to go a little wild with souvies, I would add more there. We spent roughing $1300 when we took our DD this past Sept/Oct for 12 days for her 3rd birthday/1st trip. I do go a little nuts but that also included the BBB Castle Package and a special trip to T-Rex for lunch and lots of souvies.

I'll definitely keep those cupcakes in mind. I would very much enjoy the BBB but DD will only be turning 2.

I would look into renting a home in Windsor Hills. Especially if you already get free parking with your premium passes. We stayed in a Mickey themed townhouse and LOVED it! Rates vary from around 60-125 per night depending on whether you get a condo or a townhouse and what season it is. The one we rented was Disney themed throughout, the kids loved their Mickey bedroom and bathroom. There are 2 bathrooms in condos and 3 bathrooms in the townhomes. They also have a washer/dryer so you don't have to worry about bringing quarters and hanging out in a dirty laundry room. Just throw in a load before you head to the parks in the morning. From Windsor Hills it was SUPER easy to get to the parks, faster that taking the buses from the resorts! Less than 10 minutes from our driveway till we were parked in the parking lot.

I would at least look into it. We already had reservations at All Star Music. I had had our trip planned for a year and a half when I came across Windsor Hills and just started looking for fun. I am so glad we switched! It was so nice to have so much space! The townhouses all have private pools in the back off the living room also, the kids loved that! The full kitchen was great too. We never cooked meals but it was great for snacks and breakfast. They also have a really nice pool and hot tub there, much nicer than the value resorts have

I actually took a look at the website just out of curiosity. The homes are beautiful!!

 

[SandrA9810]

I think I will make all reservations over the phone then. Thanks for that insight. Down here in Southern California the tax is almost 10%, is that the same as Northern?
I would have never thought of taking my photopass card and back. I will do that, any money saving ideas thrown at me I will catch with no hesitation.

Now would you by any chance know how the photography session works? The one that is taken at one of thet hotels and can be put on the photopass cd as well?
I am definitely planning for the higher end

Thank you for all of your advice, you have no clue how much you have helped me out.

I believe it's 8.5% or 9% where I am. Florida is 6% with some areas with a .5% increase for various reasons. I know Osceola county is 6.5%, which would include Animal Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Star Resorts, McDonalds, and Wide World of Sports Complex, all there on the southwest end of property.

Photopass -
There are private one on one sessions available by appointments at various Deluxe resorts. You get a private photographer for about 45 minutes, so the better you/your kids listen the more photo spots you can get to. Often times they'll ask you if you'd like one spot over another, and some spots they do with every one.
The cost of this is separate from other photopass pictures taken in the parks. You will get your pictures on a CD, and maybe a select few printed out. You can not combine other pictures to this CD. Although occasionally for a discount, you can have a second CD of your park pictures made, depends if they're doing any promotions. Just ask when you call to make the appointment.

Now, you will also find photographers set up about a deluxe resort, usually in the lobby. These pictures can be added to your photopass card just like all the other photos.
Park photos - You will find photographers throughout all the Disney parks in various locations. They were the same outfit as they do on the west coast, navy blue pants, white blouse, and khaki vest... and the 10 pound camera, except on Main Street, you will find them in white knickers and blue pinstriped shirts... and the 10 pound camera. You'll find them in the usual spots like in front of the Castle as well with the characters. And sometimes off the beaten path for special "Magic Shots". Like at Pirates of the Caribbean, you'll find one facing the wall with the camera on the tripod. In the end, you'll be sword fighting with Captain Hook.
Photographers are also located in the water parks. At the base of slides, in the kiddie areas, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Don't worry about bringing your photopass card with you, they'll provide you with a smaller card with a wrist band (they also give these out at Pixie Hollow as you're too small to carry a full sized card).
Photopass Dining - Since you will be dining in the castle, you'll receive the photos for free. As you enter the castle, you will have your picture taken with Cinderella. While you're dining the photos will be brought to your table. It's one 8x10 and four 4x6 photos. Sometimes they'll print various photos, like your daughter alone as the 8x10 and the 4x6 with all of you. It totally depends upon the person moderating and printing the photos. Sometimes there's just an absolute adorable moment that can't be passed up, but usually they just pick the best looking photo out of the group.
When the photos are brought to your table, on the top of the large photo will be a photopass number, take the picture to the camera center, and they'll add those photos to your card. Which you will get all photos taken added to your card.
If you do any other dining though, the pictures are not included. You will have the option to purchase the photo package for $30. If you DO purchase the photos, you may have those photos added to your card, as well as any others that might have been taken (usually 2-3 photos).


Always, always, always, take a picture of the back of your card with the photopass number on it. All a photographer needs is that number to pull up all your photos. If you do not have a picture of the card, they can search all pictures by location and time. Which often times can be sketchy, based on your memory. Always check your photos at the end of the day. You don't have to buy anything, but just make sure that your photos are showing up on your card. Sometimes the PDA can get screwy or it doesn't transmit properly and your card number is not attached to the picture. You're more likely to remember time and location A LOT better at the end of the day, rather than at the end of the week.
Photopass cards turned in to a photographer gets tossed in the recycling. There's no way to identify the people in the photo, and they could be long gone out of the park, and the above search method would be used if they go into a camera center. Some people will write a phone number on the card or put a mailing label sticker on the front of the card. If some nice guests finds it and decides to find you, they can, but it's not necessary to do it.


At the end of your vacation, take all of your photopass cards (no one finishes a vacation with just one) into the camera center and have them combined back to your original DLR card. It should work, that when you enter the DLR code when you log into photopass.com, that the Disneyland prices show up, not the Disney World prices. If you have any problems, just head over to DLR and talk with a manager there.

Don't worry about getting the card to the photographer before having a picture taken. The card is scanned at the end of the session, but if you're a little slow they might hand you a new card. Sometimes parents are so concerned over handing over the card, they're missing out on the moments as the kid meets a new character.

Let me know if you have any more questions. I'd be willing to help you crunch some numbers too once your booking window opens up. Another benefit to calling, is they can search for any pin codes you might have, and give you quotes based on various options, like a full package (room, dining, tickets) or passholder discounts. There's also AAA discount if you're a member. Sometimes I've had AAA beat out passholder, so it doesn't hurt to ask all of your options.

 

[mommy2_3]

I wish i was paying what you are paying for our hotel lol! we will be paying about $3200. we are also going in July of 2012. but we are staying the 3rd to the 13th (10 days). we are staying at all star music in the family suit cause there are 6 of us. i need to do a budget also. hopeing to find some discounts on room or dining plan or tickets. even if its just 20% off the room and free basic dining (cause that would cut the cost of the DxDP) would help tons!!

 

[SandrA9810]

With 6, that's a bit harder to plan for, especially with room accommodation, and on one of the busiest days of the year.

First off, and I did this every year after my first year experiencing it in the park. Watch the fireworks from the Poly Beach, either on July 3 or 4th (they do a "run through" night on the third). They have the electric water pageant boats come out to the Poly, and live feed the music. There's a family that reserves a private section of land that juts out to the water, so I have a feeling the EWP boats are for that. You'll see a fence set up and such, so you'll know where to stay out.

The fireworks go off from behind the castle with an exact mirror on the island in Seven Seas Lagoon. Of course there's about 12 perimeter fireworks that go off around the Magic Kingdom. It's hard to get the full experience, being within that circle. I like seeing it all from the outside that circle.
Another bonus to the Poly, self serve dole whip. Need I say more?? I always fix a huge cup of it on July 4th, it's my once a year special treat.
I would also highly recommend PATIENCE, and an extreme over dose of it. The parks are crowded to the hilt, lines are long as can be, and buses are packed. And don't think having your own car is any better, it can be just as bad getting out of the parking lots.

Since you're arriving on the 3rd, I'd watch the fireworks from the Poly on this night, and then go to Epcot on the 4th.

Do NOT expect to leave the park on the 4th, get there early and plan to stay late. Now you do have a slight priority for being a resort guest, when it comes to the 5 closing levels due to capacity.
Level 1 - all day visitors - these are guests just arriving at the park, with a basic ticket for entrance
Level 2 - During level one, any one that was previously in the park may re-enter. During level 2, they are not.
Level 3 - Resort guests and/or passholders entering for the first time.
Level 4 - Gates are locked down to any one, whether you're a passholder, resort guest, or were previously in the park.

Usually they only reach level one and two, so most resort guest can get into the park. Most the time, gates start shut down around 11am, and about 2-3pm they start reopening for Passholders/Resort guests as some people take breaks.
The other benefit to using the buses, they do close down the parking lots and will redirect you to Epcot usually. In comparison, the MK lot is tiny to the crowds they let in.


Don't expect any sort of discount for your vacation unless you do two bookings. First booking the 3rd through 5th, second booking 5th through 13th. Usually the resort will do it's best to keep you in the same room if you tell them about it at check in. On your "middle check out date" Go to the front desk early to check out and check back in. In case you do have to move, you'll have time to move your belongings before 11am. Don't even bother with the dining plan. Every place is going to be crowded and busy, and hard to get in. Try to get the dining plan for the second half of your visit. Discounts and promotions are usually based on the date of your check in, even if your check out overlaps the start date. Now if you check in during a promotion, it will extend to your check out date.

The only cheaper option... Ft Wilderness. There is a whole different world there, and tons of July 4th activities. I LOVE it there, but it's not for every one. Trust me, there's kids and babies of all ages camping in all different accommodations from tents to lavish RVs. There's two people on the camping board that rent out their travel trailer for a decent price in comparison to the cabins of Ft Wilderness. But you better jump over to the Fort Board if you want to do that. The best part, is they set up the TT before you arrive and take it down and drive it off after you leave. You just get to enjoy it. This might be an option to be a little less crowded. Bring some sleeping bags and a kid tent and let the older ones sleep outside (and a fan to keep air moving). They might get the biggest kick out of it.
This also opens up the option for cooking. Cooking on a grill in not the same as cooking at home. Something about being outside with the kids playing, the fire going, and food sizzling. And for quick fixes, people will toss a pre-made frozen stew in a crock pot and eat it when they get back from the park.

Just looking up right now, a cabin for this year's July 4th is only $3,800. I know you're not looking to spend more. But you're also talking about a lot more room with a full kitchen. It's something you might want to look into with a family your size.
You might also want to ask around about renting DVC points for a 2 bedroom villa, it might wind up cheaper.

The only reason to stay onsite over off-site, is the better chance of entering the parks on the third and fourth. After that, the crowds taper off, and the parks don't close to capacity.

 

[acf_1991]

I believe it's 8.5% or 9% where I am. Florida is 6% with some areas with a .5% increase for various reasons. I know Osceola county is 6.5%, which would include Animal Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Lodge, All Star Resorts, McDonalds, and Wide World of Sports Complex, all there on the southwest end of property.

Photopass -
There are private one on one sessions available by appointments at various Deluxe resorts. You get a private photographer for about 45 minutes, so the better you/your kids listen the more photo spots you can get to. Often times they'll ask you if you'd like one spot over another, and some spots they do with every one.
The cost of this is separate from other photopass pictures taken in the parks. You will get your pictures on a CD, and maybe a select few printed out. You can not combine other pictures to this CD. Although occasionally for a discount, you can have a second CD of your park pictures made, depends if they're doing any promotions. Just ask when you call to make the appointment.

Now, you will also find photographers set up about a deluxe resort, usually in the lobby. These pictures can be added to your photopass card just like all the other photos.
Park photos - You will find photographers throughout all the Disney parks in various locations. They were the same outfit as they do on the west coast, navy blue pants, white blouse, and khaki vest... and the 10 pound camera, except on Main Street, you will find them in white knickers and blue pinstriped shirts... and the 10 pound camera. You'll find them in the usual spots like in front of the Castle as well with the characters. And sometimes off the beaten path for special "Magic Shots". Like at Pirates of the Caribbean, you'll find one facing the wall with the camera on the tripod. In the end, you'll be sword fighting with Captain Hook.
Photographers are also located in the water parks. At the base of slides, in the kiddie areas, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Don't worry about bringing your photopass card with you, they'll provide you with a smaller card with a wrist band (they also give these out at Pixie Hollow as you're too small to carry a full sized card).
Photopass Dining - Since you will be dining in the castle, you'll receive the photos for free. As you enter the castle, you will have your picture taken with Cinderella. While you're dining the photos will be brought to your table. It's one 8x10 and four 4x6 photos. Sometimes they'll print various photos, like your daughter alone as the 8x10 and the 4x6 with all of you. It totally depends upon the person moderating and printing the photos. Sometimes there's just an absolute adorable moment that can't be passed up, but usually they just pick the best looking photo out of the group.
When the photos are brought to your table, on the top of the large photo will be a photopass number, take the picture to the camera center, and they'll add those photos to your card. Which you will get all photos taken added to your card.
If you do any other dining though, the pictures are not included. You will have the option to purchase the photo package for $30. If you DO purchase the photos, you may have those photos added to your card, as well as any others that might have been taken (usually 2-3 photos).


Always, always, always, take a picture of the back of your card with the photopass number on it. All a photographer needs is that number to pull up all your photos. If you do not have a picture of the card, they can search all pictures by location and time. Which often times can be sketchy, based on your memory. Always check your photos at the end of the day. You don't have to buy anything, but just make sure that your photos are showing up on your card. Sometimes the PDA can get screwy or it doesn't transmit properly and your card number is not attached to the picture. You're more likely to remember time and location A LOT better at the end of the day, rather than at the end of the week.
Photopass cards turned in to a photographer gets tossed in the recycling. There's no way to identify the people in the photo, and they could be long gone out of the park, and the above search method would be used if they go into a camera center. Some people will write a phone number on the card or put a mailing label sticker on the front of the card. If some nice guests finds it and decides to find you, they can, but it's not necessary to do it.


At the end of your vacation, take all of your photopass cards (no one finishes a vacation with just one) into the camera center and have them combined back to your original DLR card. It should work, that when you enter the DLR code when you log into photopass.com, that the Disneyland prices show up, not the Disney World prices. If you have any problems, just head over to DLR and talk with a manager there.

Don't worry about getting the card to the photographer before having a picture taken. The card is scanned at the end of the session, but if you're a little slow they might hand you a new card. Sometimes parents are so concerned over handing over the card, they're missing out on the moments as the kid meets a new character.

Let me know if you have any more questions. I'd be willing to help you crunch some numbers too once your booking window opens up. Another benefit to calling, is they can search for any pin codes you might have, and give you quotes based on various options, like a full package (room, dining, tickets) or passholder discounts. There's also AAA discount if you're a member. Sometimes I've had AAA beat out passholder, so it doesn't hurt to ask all of your options.

Thank you for all of the advice you have given me. I will be sure to take a picture of our photopass card. I am a AAA member so once I can FINALLY call I will ask them about that also.

I wish i was paying what you are paying for our hotel lol! we will be paying about $3200. we are also going in July of 2012. but we are staying the 3rd to the 13th (10 days). we are staying at all star music in the family suit cause there are 6 of us. i need to do a budget also. hopeing to find some discounts on room or dining plan or tickets. even if its just 20% off the room and free basic dining (cause that would cut the cost of the DxDP) would help tons!!

There are actually going to be 7 of us on our trip also. DD1, DH, myself, DM, DSF, DB14, and DB9. But I will only be paying for DD1, DH and myself. But I am planning both. So in a way it's a headache for me also. Let me know how you are doing with your budget if you want and we will help eachother out.

 

[Planogirl]

I budget via Expedia. They give more specific money amounts which is useful for me whether I end up using Expedia or not. Going through Disney might be a bit more but you can adjust accordingly.

 

[acf_1991]

I budget via Expedia. They give more specific money amounts which is useful for me whether I end up using Expedia or not. Going through Disney might be a bit more but you can adjust accordingly.

A little confused, bought what via expedia? plane tickets? I'm sure thats what you ment because that's all expedia sells, right?

 

[MrsPete]

$1400 plus tx for our tickets (we are getting the premiere tickets since we caculated we are better off getting those instead) :

I recommend you consider buying a 10-day Park Hopper with the no-expiration date feature. I just checked TicketMania, and this adult ticket sells for $582. Yes, you're going to be there 10 days, but you'll likely not go to the parks on your first and your last days -- those'll be your travel days. You can plan a character meal that doesn't require an admission ticket, and that'll be a big savings. Also, with a small child, you're likely to take a day off mid-week.

These tickets also include some "Fun Visits", which are worthwhile too. This means you can visit the water parks for reduced prices and NOT use a big-park ticket on those days.

You're going to be in Disney for 10 days. 2 are travel days, leaving 8 park days. I'd say plan to do big parks for 6 days, water parks and restful days for the other 2. And save 4 big park day tickets for your next trip. This is a realistic schedule with a small child.

Also, if you're doing a water park for half a day, there are plenty of other things you can do without spending a big-park ticket: The Electric Light Parade, watch fireworks from the Polynesian Beach, go to some of the nice dinners at the resorts, ride MouseBoats.

$850 for spending money ($200 for DD, $150 for DH because he's not big on souvenior shopping, and $500 for my self because I go wild )

In my humble opinion, these figures are crazy-high. We spend zero on souveniers. Nothing we ever buy on vacation ends up being particularly useful anyway, and it usually goes into the yard sale the next year. Since money is an issue, I suggest you slash this portion of your budget significantly.

$100 for photopass
$100 for photo session
$300 for welcome package for my DM, DB14, DB9, STF, DH, and DD:

I'd cut these out entirely. Take your own photographs and bring your own goodies.

$80 for DD bday cake

I suggest that instead of a birthday cake, you have lunch or dinner at Beaches & Cream and order The Kitchen Sink. It's an incredibly huge family-sized sundae that runs about $25. It's unique and your daughter'll remember it. My girls talked about it for a good two years.

Food budget: $100/day is probably a little high. I always find that we don't eat a whole lot at Disney. It's so hot, and we're always busy doing things and don't want to sit down a whole lot. Still, it's better to aim high and IF you bring back money, it's okay.

Really, you can cut enough from this budget so much that you can get another budget vacation out of it!

 

[Planogirl]

A little confused, bought what via expedia? plane tickets? I'm sure thats what you ment because that's all expedia sells, right?

Expedia sells plane tickets, hotel stays (including Disney hotels), rental cars and full Disney packages. I don't know if they sell passes but I order those from Undercover Tourist or buy them at the Disney Store anyway. This gives me a good idea of how expensive things are when I start to price our next stay.

You are getting very specific pricing info in this thread though so you probably won't need that data.

 

[SandrA9810]

I recommend you consider buying a 10-day Park Hopper with the no-expiration date feature. I just checked TicketMania, and this adult ticket sells for $582. Yes, you're going to be there 10 days, but you'll likely not go to the parks on your first and your last days -- those'll be your travel days. You can plan a character meal that doesn't require an admission ticket, and that'll be a big savings. Also, with a small child, you're likely to take a day off mid-week.

These tickets also include some "Fun Visits", which are worthwhile too. This means you can visit the water parks for reduced prices and NOT use a big-park ticket on those days.

The premiere ticket allows them entry into Disneyland, which is close to home for them. It's not just about Disney World. Check the first page to read more about this particular ticket.

I suggest that instead of a birthday cake, you have lunch or dinner at Beaches & Cream and order The Kitchen Sink. It's an incredibly huge family-sized sundae that runs about $25. It's unique and your daughter'll remember it. My girls talked about it for a good two years.

This will be a big memory for every one involved. As long as every one can agree on EVERY topping available. No one is allowed to be picky for this grand adventure.

Food budget: $100/day is probably a little high. I always find that we don't eat a whole lot at Disney. It's so hot, and we're always busy doing things and don't want to sit down a whole lot. Still, it's better to aim high and IF you bring back money, it's okay.

$50-75 for two adults should be way more than enough, except for eating at the Castle, expect to drop about $125 or more for dinner, a little less for breakfast though. Most people average 2 counter service meals a day, which could be about $25 each meal for two. A snack or drink could run another $10 or so. Most kid's meal run about $5 each, if she's eating more than you want to share.

Really, you can cut enough from this budget so much that you can get another budget vacation out of it!

Well having the premier pass would allow them to come back to WDW within a year and not worry about park tickets too. Get rid of the souvenirs and they'd be about half way to their next vacation.

As for the photopass pictures, you can combine all the cards from your entire family onto your card. Once the CD is made for you, that CD belongs to you, you can make as many duplicates of that CD as you want. So you can split the cost with your parents and they can have all the vacation photos as well. Then you don't have to worry about getting duplicate prints or swapping photos. You'll already have each other's.

Photopass isn't for every one, but having a little one, it's nice to be able to enjoy the moment with the child rather than trying to stand back and take pictures. And any photographer will gladly use your camera as well, or even just your camera to capture those moments for you. They are Disney Cast Members just like the rest (they are NOT outsourced), and will provide the expectation just like any other cast member. Trust me, sometimes you'd rather have some one that's trained in being able to capture a good picture, rather than some one asking "which button do I press?" And for the record, every camera (beside SLRs with the attachment) have the button on the right top side. Half way focuses a camera, all the way takes the picture.

 

[MrsPete]

The premiere ticket allows them entry into Disneyland, which is close to home for them. It's not just about Disney World. Check the first page to read more about this particular ticket

Oh, Disney LAND . . . I totally missed that detail. Living on the East Coast, I've never been there and can't say anything about those tickets.

 

[acf_1991]

I recommend you consider buying a 10-day Park Hopper with the no-expiration date feature. I just checked TicketMania, and this adult ticket sells for $582. Yes, you're going to be there 10 days, but you'll likely not go to the parks on your first and your last days -- those'll be your travel days. You can plan a character meal that doesn't require an admission ticket, and that'll be a big savings. Also, with a small child, you're likely to take a day off mid-week.

These tickets also include some "Fun Visits", which are worthwhile too. This means you can visit the water parks for reduced prices and NOT use a big-park ticket on those days.

You're going to be in Disney for 10 days. 2 are travel days, leaving 8 park days. I'd say plan to do big parks for 6 days, water parks and restful days for the other 2. And save 4 big park day tickets for your next trip. This is a realistic schedule with a small child.

Also, if you're doing a water park for half a day, there are plenty of other things you can do without spending a big-park ticket: The Electric Light Parade, watch fireworks from the Polynesian Beach, go to some of the nice dinners at the resorts, ride MouseBoats. In my humble opinion, these figures are crazy-high. We spend zero on souveniers. Nothing we ever buy on vacation ends up being particularly useful anyway, and it usually goes into the yard sale the next year. Since money is an issue, I suggest you slash this portion of your budget significantly. I'd cut these out entirely. Take your own photographs and bring your own goodies. I suggest that instead of a birthday cake, you have lunch or dinner at Beaches & Cream and order The Kitchen Sink. It's an incredibly huge family-sized sundae that runs about $25. It's unique and your daughter'll remember it. My girls talked about it for a good two years.

Food budget: $100/day is probably a little high. I always find that we don't eat a whole lot at Disney. It's so hot, and we're always busy doing things and don't want to sit down a whole lot. Still, it's better to aim high and IF you bring back money, it's okay.

Really, you can cut enough from this budget so much that you can get another budget vacation out of it!

Thank you for your insight but the premiere pass is a pass that allows 365 days to both DL and WDW with parking and extra perks. In my case, the premiere pass saves me more money in the long run
Here is a link to the premiere pass info if anyone is interested:
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2010/03/disney-premier-passport-unveiled/

Beaches and cream huh? I'll look into it

As far as my food budget goes, I know.. (sigh) way to high. I guess that means more research

Expedia sells plane tickets, hotel stays (including Disney hotels), rental cars and full Disney packages. I don't know if they sell passes but I order those from Undercover Tourist or buy them at the Disney Store anyway. This gives me a good idea of how expensive things are when I start to price our next stay.

You are getting very specific pricing info in this thread though so you probably won't need that data.

Thanks I didn't know expedia did that!

The premiere ticket allows them entry into Disneyland, which is close to home for them. It's not just about Disney World. Check the first page to read more about this particular ticket.



This will be a big memory for every one involved. As long as every one can agree on EVERY topping available. No one is allowed to be picky for this grand adventure.



$50-75 for two adults should be way more than enough, except for eating at the Castle, expect to drop about $125 or more for dinner, a little less for breakfast though. Most people average 2 counter service meals a day, which could be about $25 each meal for two. A snack or drink could run another $10 or so. Most kid's meal run about $5 each, if she's eating more than you want to share.



Well having the premier pass would allow them to come back to WDW within a year and not worry about park tickets too. Get rid of the souvenirs and they'd be about half way to their next vacation.

As for the photopass pictures, you can combine all the cards from your entire family onto your card. Once the CD is made for you, that CD belongs to you, you can make as many duplicates of that CD as you want. So you can split the cost with your parents and they can have all the vacation photos as well. Then you don't have to worry about getting duplicate prints or swapping photos. You'll already have each other's.

Photopass isn't for every one, but having a little one, it's nice to be able to enjoy the moment with the child rather than trying to stand back and take pictures. And any photographer will gladly use your camera as well, or even just your camera to capture those moments for you. They are Disney Cast Members just like the rest (they are NOT outsourced), and will provide the expectation just like any other cast member. Trust me, sometimes you'd rather have some one that's trained in being able to capture a good picture, rather than some one asking "which button do I press?" And for the record, every camera (beside SLRs with the attachment) have the button on the right top side. Half way focuses a camera, all the way takes the picture.

Again, right on the spot!

Oh, Disney LAND . . . I totally missed that detail. Living on the East Coast, I've never been there and can't say anything about those tickets.

Premiere pass is sold at both WDW and DL. It actually just came out last March I believe

 

[SandrA9810]

As far as my food budget goes, I know.. (sigh) way to high. I guess that means more research

Go check out allears.net they have a full menu with prices of every place you can eat at the World. Here's some of my favorites, for counter service

Pecos Bill - MK Frontierland - I love getting the taco salad, it's huge, and you can add in all the toppings you want. They just give you a shell with some meat in the bottom. The rest you fill at the toppings bar.
My favorite creation there - order some fries and ask for a paper tray or plate. Then smother it in the hot cheese sauce, add a bit of lettuce, salsa, and shredded cheese. It's like figaro fries, only not. (Figaro fries are sold at Pinocchio's village Haus in Fantasyland).
Cosmic Ray's Cafe - MK Tomorrowland - At bay 1, they sell a sampler platter. It's like a 1/4 chicken with some beef (not sure what cut) and two sides. It's a bit more expensive at like $12 a plate, but it's good for sharing too.

Seasons - Epcot The Land - There's two stations all the way to the right. I usually wind up with a kid's meal here because I can get two sides of mash potatoes instead of grapes and whatever else. But they serve really good food here for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It's a way different variety there than what's offered at most counter services.

Lotus Blossom cafe - Epcot China - I've had the kids meal from here before. It's cute a place and the food was good

Flame Tree BBQ - Animal Kingdom Discover Island - pretty good BBQ for counter service

Pizza Planet - Hollywood Studios - pretty much because it's the only place that isn't yucky or boring. You really should opt for eating at Prime Time cafe, which is a total blast. Or going to one of the resorts.

If you want to eat around the world at World Showcase in Epcot, there's small food stands usually at the entrance to each country, or if there's a counter service, buy a kid's meal. That way you get a smaller portion more for sampling and cheaper than buying two individual snacks at the food cart.

There's also a TON of good dining options within the resorts. And sometimes, it's nice to walk out of the park for a few minutes.

MK - Hop on the monorail to the Contemporary or Polynesian. I prefer the Poly because of self serve dole whip. And in general some of the resorts have better options than in park dining.

Epcot - exit out of the World Showcase entrance with a short stroll or boat ride over to the Boardwalk (yummy bakery there) or Yacht and Beach Club (yummy beaches and cream).

Studios - Same as above, the boat goes between Studios and Epcot, making a stop at all the resorts. It's much faster than the bus, but can be just as slow as walking it.

Animal Kingdom is a little more out there. You can head over to the Lodge there or back to All Stars if that's the resort you're staying at. The thing about DAK as well, is it's a small park. If you get there at rope drop, you can see almost all of it by 3pm. Watch the parade and head on out. It's best to do it in two mornings rather than one long day.

If you opt for the dining in resorts, purchase a length of stay mug at the beginning of your stay. It's $13 a mug, but well worth it when it cost $2.50 per 20oz drink. You really get your monies worth by dining at the resorts and using your mug for drinks. But they're also good if you like to have a late night drink or cup of coffee on your way out to the bus stop in the morning. Since most bus stops are at the front of each resort near the check-in, gift shop, and food court. That's $5 a day right there just by using it twice.

There is also the Tables in Wonderland card, but it's mainly used for table service restaurants or dining in the resorts.
Table Service - Works at almost (possibly) all table service restaurants across property, resorts and parks. It gives 20% off with an automatic 18% gratuity. So think of it as a free tip.
Counter Service - Only works in the resorts at almost (possibly) all counter service options outside of the 4 main theme parks (although according to allears, it also works at the counter service options at Animal Kingdom because there's limited table service available. This will give you 20% off your bill, and there's no gratuity added. So this is where the savings can really kick in for your budget. And you can use it for up to 9 additional guests. So you can use it for your entire family (all on the same bill).
It would be an initial cost of $75 for the pass, and it's good for one year (another reason to plan a second trip).

Average meal at a counter service is $10, $2 savings per person, So you could save up to $6 or more eating with your entire family at a counter service. For just one meal. And another $20 savings eating at Cinderella's Royal Table.

It's totally optional, you'll have to plan a general idea of your meals and how often you plan on dining with every one. To see if it's worth your while. It's more for passholders that live near Disney that visit the property every so often just for dinning. Like just another spot on the town to go eat, not "it's Disney World!!!"

 

[nrpofp]

Your food budget seems to low. How do you eat on 100 a day. I think our cheapest dinner was $140 at Ohana. You have to really love fast food to eat for that little amount of money. That seems like a lot of fast food for 10 days. $950 for souvenirs your going to have to rent a u haul and drive home. You could upgrade to a nicer resort or eat better for that amount of money. Disney fast food is really bad.

 

[ruadisneyfan2]

Okay so now that our 2012 trip is getting closer we finally came up with a "budget". Is anyone here willing to double check it for me and let me know if this is way too little or way too much? This is our first WDW trip and so far these are just estimated guesses so if something is off please let us know. This is for DD, DH, and myself. DD will be turning 2 and this will be a celebration for her birthday.

So far this is our plan:

$1400 plus tx for our tickets (we are getting the premiere tickets since we caculated we are better off getting those instead)

$1700 for ASMo (this will probably be a bit less because this is calculated by perferred and we don't want perferred, but it was the only way to get a guess on the official WDW website)

$1000 for food for two adults and a child under 3 with one ADR for Cindy's

$850 for spending money ($200 for DD, $150 for DH because he's not big on souvenior shopping, and $500 for my self because I go wild )

$100 for photopass

$100 for photo session

$300 for welcome package for my DM, DB14, DB9, STF, DH, and DD

$80 for DD bday cake

Now, does this sound about right? So far the only thing I am certain about is the tickets which are $700 a pop. Everything else, I am really unsure. I did check each website out to get an idea.

Also, if this helps, the souveniors I already know I'm buying are ATLEAST one piece of clothing for each of us, a snowglobe, magnets, shotglasses, photoalbums, and picture frames. Oh and most likely Christmas ornaments.



We will be visiting all four parks plus the two water parks FYI

Please work your magic fellow DISers

Sorry I didn't read through all replies and of course, jmho, but now that my kids are entering HS & MS, I would go at an off peak time. In a blink you will be trying to plan around school schedules (unless you homeschool).
Your dates are at the peak of heat & crowds.

Also with the special out now for late summer, WL is a little more than your hotel estimate, a huge difference in your overall experience. Especially when staying for 10 days. That means more resort time and less commando. WL has it's own boat to MK which is where things are most geared to a 2 yr. old. Again, jmho, but I would be spending more on an upgraded resort and less on fluff like an $80 cake for a 2 y.o.
In the end, it's your time & $$.

 

[neatokimmo]

Disney fast food is really bad.

I disagree, they have some great options when you stay away from hamburgers and chicken nuggets.

In the MK, we like Cosmic Rays. Roasted chicken and veggies. in AK, we like the little Chinese place next to Yak and Yeti. There are too many great options in Epcot to even list.

With proper research you can get great food at Disney, counter service or table service.

 

[neatokimmo]

Sorry I didn't read through all replies and of course, jmho, but now that my kids are entering HS & MS, I would go at an off peak time. In a blink you will be trying to plan around school schedules (unless you homeschool).
Your dates are at the peak of heat & crowds.

That is so true, try to go in Sept when free dining is offered and shave your food budget down to just your TS meal at the Castle. Your room rate will be less too.

 

[neatokimmo]

ruadisneyfan2 - I'm having some ticker envy

 

[SandrA9810]

Well there are school schedules and other things to consider. In a later post, she mentioned going with her family. Including her parents and younger siblings that are still in school. And it includes her daughters birthday.

Her budget is just for her family though. Parents are picking up their own tab. It seems they're scheduling their vacation their own way. Which usually works out best for larger groups. Plan a few get together nights/days but not make the entire vacation about sticking with the WHOLE group.

It also depends, but sometimes a 2 bedroom villa can be more economical than doing 2 rooms at a value resort. There's a bit more room, a kitchen, and I think laundry room too. Just totally depends on the family dynamics and what could work for them.

 

[SLM]

Alot of great ideas posted! I'll just chime in that we have traveled several times in August and it's so hot we rarely eat (or want) big meals. My husband and I will often share a meal and then get a frozen lemonade or ice cream later. I know many people use a sit down restaurant as chance to cool off, but I'd even share a meal then because going outside in the heat again after a full meal would probably kill me!