How to Visit Orlando on a Budget (2024)

The cost of a holiday to Orlando can add up quite quickly, especially if you’re visiting as a family. But with a simple bit of planning, together with our top money-saving tips, it is possible to enjoy an Orlando holiday on a budget. Let us show you how…

1. Book your tickets in advance

If you want to get the lowest price for your theme park tickets (who doesn’t?), it’s essential to book in advance. If you wait until you arrive at the park gates, not only will you have to wait in line to get your tickets, but you can also expect to pay a much higher price, as tickets are always more expensive on the gate. Save yourself time, money and hassle and book your theme park tickets in advance. You’ll get real tickets and will be able to walk straight in and enjoy your day.

2. Consider visiting off-peak

There are two main benefits of visiting the Orlando theme parks off-peak and of course one of them is that it can save you a lot of money! If you’re able to visit Orlando outside of the holidays or in quieter months like February and September, prices for flights and accommodation are often much lower. The second benefit of visiting Orlando off-peak is that the parks won’t be as busy which means you won’t have to wait in long lines to get on the top attractions- win-win!

3. Pack some snacks

Most of the Orlando theme parks (including Disney and Universal) allow you to bring food and drink into the parks. This is a great way to save some money (especially if you’re visiting as a family) as the cost of snacks can add up quickly. Just make sure you don’t bring any glass containers or bottles into the parks, as this isn’t allowed.

4. Bring a bottle

We’d definitely suggest bringing a bottle of water to the parks, as you can refill this during the day for free. You’ll be able to keep yourself hydrated in the Florida sunshine and won’t have to pay a penny, as there are lots of water fountains throughout the park. You can also ask for your bottle to be filled up for free at the park’s counter service restaurants.

5. Make the most of the freebies

There are so many amazing things to do in Orlando, but did you know that there’s plenty you can do for free? Exploring Disney Springs, watching the street performers at Disney’s Boardwalk, taking a trip to the beach and visiting the beautiful Lake Eola park are just a few things you can do for free.

If you’re visiting with little ones, we’d also recommend ‘Chip 'n' Dale's Campfire Sing-A-Long’. You’ll be able to sit around the campfire with Chip and Dale, take lots of pictures and sing along to Disney classics!

6. Save on transport

If you’re staying on-site at a Disney, Universal or SeaWorld hotel, you’ll benefit from complimentary transportation to and from the parks, but if you want to visit the other theme parks, you’ll have to arrange additional transport. If you’re looking for the cheapest way to travel, we’d avoid renting a car (as fuel and parking can be expensive) and instead use car companies like Uber or Lyft. You can also use the I-ride trolley with an unlimited 3-day pass costing just £6.

7. Make a budget and stick to it!

If you want to visit Orlando on a budget, it’s important to make a plan of how much you’re going to allow yourself to spend each day. Allocate money for food, drinks, souvenirs and any extras, and then make sure you stick to it. This way you won’t go over budget and can keep track of what you’re spending. It’s important to factor tipping into your budget too as the standard rate in America is between 15-20%. You don’t want this unexpected amount coming out of your souvenir fund!

8. Save souvenirs until the end

This is especially important if you’re visiting with little ones who might want to take the whole souvenir shop home! Saving your shopping until the end of your holiday could save you some serious money, compared to buying something from each park along the way. Souvenir shopping on your last day means you’re likely to buy less and therefore spend less.