Walt disney world tips
Know that gratuity is not included in the dining plan.
Don’t forget to tip when at a table service restaurant. And don’t worry, you’ll get a receipt telling you how much your bill would’ve been without the plan, that way you can calculate an appropriate tip.
Come during “free dining” promotional season.
There are times when you can get a free quick service dining plan when you book a stay for a certain amount a days during the offseason. These promotions come and go but if it fits your time frame, you should definitely consider it.
Bring Snacks and Drinks with You to Disneyland
Disneyland Resort is super expensive, especially if you are with a family. Paying for snacks, meals, drinks, sweets, and souvenirs really adds up. Good news is that Disney theme parks allow you to bring in bags, food and drinks. You cannot bring a cooler, however, everything else is pretty much fair game. I always bring drinks (like Gatorade and water) and snacks. Protein bars are great because they give you energy throughout the day without having to splurge on a meal. Also, stopping for meals cuts into your time spent on rides! For kids, bring juice boxes and whatever snacks they like. You can bring your refillable water bottles and fill them up at select locations throughout Disneyland Resort. Disneyland and DCA offer free cups of water at all counter service restaurants. Just be really nice and ask. If one place shoots you down, go to the next one. I never had any difficulty having my water bottles refilled. Often times the cast members would ask if I wanted ice, too. Be polite and you’ll get hooked up.
Room service can be your best friend.
If you don’t want to eat out and maybe you just want to hang out in your room and chill instead, one of the best things to do is order room service, or better, order Disney pizza!
Don’t buy desserts at Table Service restaurants during dinner.
So I’m going to be honest here. Table service restaurant desserts are pretty pricey and frankly, some aren’t as unique as what you’ll find elsewhere. That’s why I recommend you just skip the dessert and get an appetizer with that money instead. Or better, you can go out and grab a dessert from one of many delicious eateries across Disney property.
Consider a refillable resort mug if you’re an avid coffee, tea, or soda drinker.
Refillable mugs are perfect if you’re staying at a Disney resort and want to fill up often. Just remember, these mugs can’t be used at the theme parks and water parks.
Florida water smells, so bring or buy bottled water.
Living in Florida, I’ve gotten used to it, but the water here smells like eggs (they say it’s because of the high sulfur count). So if you can’t stand the smell and taste of smelly water, be sure to bring your own. Or you can also use a Mio or any other flavored packet like Liquid IV.
Bring your own snacks, drinks, or even meals.
If you’re on a budget or just want to munch on your favorite snacks, be sure to pack your own. Plus, you can even bring your own drinks (minus alcohol). Disney won’t stop you.
Bring your Starbucks gift card.
You can use your Starbucks gift cards at Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs thanks to brand new locations. So put those Christmas and birthday presents to good use!
Bring you own gum.
You won’t find any gum on Disney property so be sure to pack your own.