Hi Janet.
Congratulations on your upcoming trip to Walt Disney World!
The Disney Dining Plan is only available to Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort properties.
That being said, even without a Dining Plan, you'll still have the same access to the many choices and wonderful dining possibilities all around Walt Disney World's resorts, parks and Downtown Disney!
To stay within your budget, do a little bit of 'research' online before you arrive on site. The
Dining page of the Walt Disney World website lists all of the restaurants on property and even includes the menus and pricing for both Table Service and Counter Service Dining. You'll find it helpful to have an idea of what types of cuisine appeal to you and fall within your planned budget daily. In the top right section of the header, you can even search for dining locations by price range - as well as by location and cuisine type. Be sure to check it out.
There are a few other valuable online resources you may wish to consider such as The Disney Food Blog - a non-Disney "fan" site which is chock-full of valuable tips for dining on a budget, best Disney dining values and much more.
You'll find that at Walt Disney World, dining on a budget doesn't mean going hungry or without choices. There are ample choices to suit every appetite and every taste - even on a budget!
If you decide that you'd like to enjoy any Table Service Dining during your visit, be sure to make an Advance Dining Reservation via the Walt Disney World website.
Should you wish any specific recommendations, please don't hesitate to write me back Janet.
Wishing you a simply Magical time at Walt Disney World!
Kirsten