Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Apr 22, 2009
    J from AL Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I am planning a trip to WDW and DCL in 5/2010 (family of six-age 10,8,5,2). I am trying to determine how much money on average I will need after making final payments. I am most concerned about the cruise because I have heard that there are extras.

    All families have different budgets to work with when fulfilling their magical dreams at WDW.

    First, it will depend on whether or not you have purchased the dining plan. If not, you’ll need to factor in meals, snacks and beverages to your expenses. Some families bring their own breakfast items such as granola bars and order a case of water, other families eat every morning at their hotel food court and other guests rush to a park with just a coffee and juice in hand.

    Do not underestimate your beverage expense. I suggest ordering a case of water from gardengrocer.com or bringing it with you if you are driving to the resort. I’d also recommend purchasing a refillable mug, if staying at a WDW resort.

    Have you planned extras such as boating and horseback riding? Write down all expenses that are not covered in your package.

    How much do you feel comfortable allotting to souvenirs, Mickey Ice Cream bars and other miscellaneous expenses? Gratuities for Bell Services, Housekeeping and Restaurant Servers can be budgeted. I keep a spreadsheet with our estimated expenses.  These expenses include gas, rental car, airfare, parking at airport, hotel, miscellaneous (magazines, snacks, medicine, laundry), souvenirs, tips (housekeeping, Bell Services, skycaps, bus drivers if helping with luggage), recreation (fireworks cruise, miniature golf) pet sitting expenses while we are away, tickets, refillable mugs and meals.

    For the Disney Cruise, you’ll actually find a more all-inclusive vacation. See details here.
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Meet the Panelist: Kimberly, Tennessee

I am a stay-at-home mom with a 12 year old son. I thrive on planning vacations, especially to WDW. Inspiring families to vacation at Disney with a memorable itinerary and budget-saving tips is extremely rewarding for me. Learn More About Kimberly

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