I can't give you a 100% answer as this upcoming trip to DL will be my first visit (we're also taking my 3 year old DD) but I can tell you what I have planned.
I am taking $150 in cash. Then I have put $350 on a Disney Gift Card for myself & DD to spend on stuff in the parks. I will have my debit and credit card (Disney Visa for the discounts & free photos) for emergencies but I am not going to permit myself to use them (fingers crossed). We're staying at GCH with concierge service so I am going to totally utilize the lounge and snacks that they offer. I'm hoping that it will help cut down on food purchases while in the parks.
Ahead of time, I've printed out some tip envelopes and have already put money in those so my "mousekeepers" for cleaning our room during our stay and then for the bellhops as they take care of our bags for us. That way the money is already in place and I don't have to worry while I'm there about having the correct amount of money, or smaller bills ($5's or $1's) to leave for tips.
Have a great time!!!
