Are you ready to discover tips and tricks for Disneyland? Whether it’s your first time visiting the happiest place on Earth or you’re a seasoned explorer of this magical kingdom, this guide is chock-full of our favorite Disneyland tips.
These insider strategies will help you develop a solid game plan for your Disneyland trip, ensuring you have a great time without breaking the bank.
So, grab your mouse ears, and let’s venture into the wonder and excitement of Disneyland, all while keeping your wallet happy!
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission, at no cost to you, when you make a purchase through the links. Read our complete disclaimer here, and Amazon Affiliate disclosure here.
Tips and Tricks for Disneyland: Booking and Reservations
1. Book in Advance
If you plan to visit Disneyland during peak seasons like summer months or winter holidays, the best way to save money is to plan ahead. Purchase tickets, and make hotel reservations months in advance.
Bonus tip: Use Disney Genie within the Disneyland mobile app to plan your itinerary. Download the Disneyland app here.
2. Travel During Off-Peak Times
Aim for mid-week days during off-peak months like January and September for fewer people and better rates.
3. Use Rewards Credit Cards
Pay for the trip with a rewards credit card that gives you travel points or cashback.
4. Leverage Memberships
Some of the best places to check for discounts on Disneyland vacations are memberships like AAA or Costco.
Also, check if you qualify for any discounts, such as military discounts, student discounts, etc.
5. Check Discount Sites
Discount sites like Undercover Tourist are a great place to find discount Disneyland tickets.
6. Utilize Cashback Apps
Use cashback apps or websites when booking hotels, tickets, or even dining. They are a great way to earn small percentages back on big-ticket items.
WayAway is a great option to earn cash back on flights, hotels, car, rentals, and attractions. Use our code AFROSTYLICITY to get additional cash back.
7. Use Price Calendars
Disneyland’s pricing varies by date. Use the price calendar on the Disneyland website to find the cheapest days to visit.
8. Sign Up for Offers
Subscribe to Disneyland newsletters and follow social media for possible special promotions and last-minute deals.
9. Disneyland Visit Dates Tips
Flexibility can lead to finding better deals for flights, hotels, and even Disney park tickets.
Conversely, if you’re flexible, sometimes last-minute deals pop up for hotels and packages as providers look to fill unsold inventory.
10. Monitor Flight Deals
Use flight comparison tools and set up alerts for your travel dates to snag the best deals on airfare.
11. Compare Disneyland and California Adventure Park Ticket Types
Disneyland has two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
A park hopper ticket will allow you to shift between both parks on the same day.
Evaluate the cost difference between one-park-per-day and park hopper tickets to see which offers more value for your visit style.
12. Consider Annual Passes
If you plan to visit Disneyland multiple times in a year, an annual pass could offer savings on park reservation tickets and merchandise.
13. Utilize City Passes
CityPASS can offer discounts on multiple popular attractions in the Southern California area, including Disneyland.
Tips and Tricks for Disneyland: Accommodation
14. Weigh the Benefits of Staying On-site vs. Off site Hotels
Staying at Disneyland Resort Hotels may be costly; however, the perks offered to hotel guests may be well worth it.
Comparatively, the nightly rate of a hotel room at a nearby hotel or a vacation rental may be cheaper than staying at a Disney hotel.
15. Disneyland Bundling Tips
Look for vacation packages that include hotel, tickets, and dining, which can be cheaper than booking separately.
Tips and Tricks For Disneyland: Transportation and Parking
16. Use Hotel Shuttles
If you opt to stay at a Disneyland Hotel, you may have access to a shuttle service to and from the Disneyland theme parks.
17. Use Alternative Transport
Parking at Disneyland is quite costly. If you are not staying onsite, consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Flixbus buses have large and comfortable seats, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
18. Park Outside Disneyland
If you prefer to avoid the extra cost of parking at Disneyland, you can consider parking lots within walking distance.
Tips and Tricks for Disneyland: Park Spending
19. Research Meal Plans
If available, evaluate whether meal plans would offer savings based on your eating habits and what they include.
20. Disneyland Dining Tips
Dining options at Disneyland can be pricey. Pack snacks and refillable water bottles to save on dining costs.
Bonus Tip: Consider dining at eateries outside Disneyland.
21. Bring Your Own Disney Gear
If one of your favorite things to do is dressing up in Disney-themed clothes and accessories, consider packing your own. Buying these items in the park can be expensive.
Note that Disneyland visitors over the age of 14 are not allowed to dress up as Disney characters.
22. Buy Souvenirs in Advance
Save money by purchasing Disney gear beforehand online to avoid the high prices in the parks.
Insider Tip: Earn Rakuten cashback on your Disney Store purchase, plus an additional $30 when you use our Rakuten referral.
23. Split the Cost of Souvenirs
If traveling with friends, and you decide to purchase souvenirs at Disneyland, consider splitting the cost of bulk items or packages. This will allow you to take advantage of any ‘buy more, save more’ deals.
24. Tips and Tricks for Disneyland: Bonus Tip
Remember that sometimes the best deal is about the value of the experience rather than the lowest price, so prioritize what’s most important to you for your Disneyland adventure.
Final Thoughts About Tips and Tricks for Disneyland
Disneyland isn’t just a theme park; it’s a feeling, an experience, and a favorite place in the world for many.
As we wrap up our journey through Disneyland with cost-saving insights, remember that your Disneyland vacation does not have to drain your wallet to have the best time.
By applying these tips and tricks for Disneyland, you’re set to create good times and lifelong memories.
So go ahead, plan that Disneyland visit, and discover its wonders in the most budget-friendly way possible!
How To Plan a Disneyland Trip for Adults
Disneyland can be fun for all ages. If you are an adult considering visiting Disneyland, check out our detailed How to Plan a Disneyland Trip for Grown-ups Guide.
P.S. If you found this guide for your next Disney vacation helpful or want to save it for later, please pin it on Pinterest!
