Hi Leah,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! How exciting to plan a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort for October! I am always happy to greet another North Carolinian.
We always have a budget when we travel so I understand your question! First, we always decide which type of Walt Disney World Resort Hotel we can afford. We prefer to stay on property because of the benefits for resort hotel guests. There are
value,
moderate,
deluxe and deluxe villa resort hotels. My family prefers deluxe resort hotels with monorail access because of the dining options they afford and their multiple transportation options. Having said that, when deluxe resorts are out of my budget, I happily choose a value resort. Their decor is AMAZING and the pools are fantastic.
Once you decide which resort hotel fits within your budget, decide how many days you will visit the parks. We normally include our park tickets as part of a
Magic Your Way Vacation Package. We typically forego the Park Hopper Option because the added expense does not fit our budget.
Finally, we choose a dining plan. I have found that the dining plan pricing gives me a good estimate of how much it will cost us to eat in the parks and resorts. There are, of course, ways to save money on food by bringing your own snacks or cooking.
Leah, I check prices on the Walt Disney World website or by calling 407-939-5277. In the past, we have also used a travel agent. Also, check the
special offers!
Magic, memories and Minnie Mouse hugs,
Donyell