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StitcherWhether you’re a Disney adult or just tagging along for the churros and castle views, one thing’s for sure: every princess knows the magic comes at a cost. But do you really need the full-time experience… or just the fun part of it? Today’s guest, AJ Wolfe, is walking us through the must-knows for planning a Disney trip so you don’t end up draining your savings.
Make sure to get your money’s worth when you are there.
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AJ Wolfe is a writer, journalist, speaker, entrepreneur, and media creator. She is the founder and owner of Cambrick Yard Media, and runs multiple accounts including The Disney Food Blog, which reaches millions of readers, viewers, and followers daily across several platforms.
What to Expect with the Upcoming Changes
In the last couple of years, Disney has been rolling out new attractions, thrilling rides, and immersive lands not just for kids, but also for the kid in all of us. Unfortunately, AJ notes that there likely won’t be many major deals anytime soon. If any do pop up, they’ll likely be for Disneyland hotel discounts or occasional park ticket promotions.
That’s because Disney anticipates a surge in visitors due to these big upcoming changes. So, the best way for her to find deals is by checking directly on Disney’s official website. It’s also important to avoid discounted ticket offers from unofficial sources, as they might be scams or come with hidden fees.
How to Save on Disney Hotels
AJ acknowledges the rising costs—resort fees, skyrocketing parking fees, and increasing taxes. While there are still some good deals out there, it really depends on the hotel.
To save on Disney hotels, AJ warns about hidden fees like resort charges and parking. She also points out that package deals aren’t always the best value, so it’s worth doing the math. Always read the fine print and double-check the actual minimum stay requirement, it’s often different from what’s being advertised. And remember, there’s almost always some kind of discount available, so it pays to look around.
When is Disney Dining Plan Worth It and Not?
AJ highlights that it’s more about convenience than savings. Disney prices it strategically around what people typically spend, so you’re not getting a deal. If you’re trying to save money, she suggests skipping it.
But, if a free dining plan comes with your package, compare it to hotel discounts and budget out your food separately. Sometimes a room discount plus paying out of pocket for meals saves more. Generally, the parks that are most ideal for eating are Animal Kingdom and EPCOT.
Best Budget Friendly Ways to Incorporate Lightning Lanes, Multi and Single?
For budget-friendly trips, AJ recommends skipping Lightning Lanes during slower times and saving them for parks where they matter most: Hollywood Studios for older kids and Magic Kingdom for younger ones.
Magic Kingdom only has a few long lines, so you won’t need them for every ride. At EPCOT, arriving early or using the single rider line can save both time and money. And if long lines aren’t your thing, she suggests considering just one Lightning Lane pass for your top ride instead of the full multi-pass.
What’s the biggest waste of money at Disney World?
- AJ: Not planning and character meals at dinner.
- Jill: Generally, food.
- Jen: Loungefly backpacks.
Get more from AJ
Website: disneyfoodblog.com or ajwolfe.com
Youtube: @DFBGuide
Instagram: @someotherstuff
Bill of The Week
Thanks AJ for sharing your bill about a former cast member who told a story about a customer asking where Daffy Duck is (not donald duck).
Thanks so Much for Listening!
Thanks so much for listening. We love love love reading your kind reviews of our book Buy What You Love Without Going Broke and we especially loved this one from:
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This book helps readers discover what they value so their spending and values are aligned. The authors walked me through how to become more mindful about what I was spending on and help uncover some of the reasons. I love their explanation on how Maslow's hierarchy of needs affects our purchases. The questions and stories included throughout the book help reveal hidden motivations. For some of us who feel shame spending on ourselves, this book will be especially helpful. Maybe the book could also be called, Buy What You Love Without Feeling Guilty.
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