There’s no question that a trip to Disneyland® can be pricey—but that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach for families wanting to experience the magic. With some smart planning, budgeting, and a few money-saving hacks, you can enjoy an unforgettable family vacation without overspending. If you’re wondering how to do Disneyland® on a budget, here are some of the best ways to stretch your dollars and still have an incredible trip.

Pack Your Own Snacks and Water Bottles

Many first-time visitors don’t realize that Disneyland® allows (and even encourages) guests to bring their own snacks. Bring easy-to-pack foods like trail mix, jerky, sandwiches, fruit and veggies, or granola bars, which not only save you money but are also healthier than many options in the park. Along the same lines, bring a reusable water bottle for everyone in your group and refill throughout the day (find several refill stations in both Disneyland® and DCA). This may seem like a minor cost, but when you consider that a single water bottle costs $4-6 inside the park, the savings add up quickly, especially for a family. Pro tip: bring electrolyte packets to mix in when energy levels start to run low.

Skip the Park Hopper on Multi-Day Trips

Disneyland® Resort has two theme parks: Disneyland® and Disney California Adventure®, often referred to as DCA. To visit both in one day, you’ll need a Park Hopper ticket, which costs $65–$75 more per person, per day. For families, that adds up fast. Luckily, there’s a smart, more wallet-friendly alternative. If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland® on a budget, commit to visiting one park per day. This saves a substantial amount of money, but also has the added benefit of giving you more time to fully experience each park without the hassle of rushing back and forth. Especially for first-time guests, you may find you get more out of your visit by exploring one park at a time.

Buy Discounted Gift Cards Before Your Trip

Here’s another often-overlooked tip: You can buy Disney® gift cards at a discount from select retailers. If you have a Target RedCard, you get 5% off all purchases including gift cards, and places like Sam’s Club often offer gift card deals as well. Also, once or twice a year, these stores offer additional discounts, selling gift cards at up to 10% off. Pair this with a cash-back credit card, and these small discounts really stack up—another smart strategy if you’re looking to plan a Disneyland® vacation on a budget.

Stay Off-Property for Major Savings

While staying inside the park is appealing for many reasons, off-property hotels offer serious savings without sacrificing convenience. Many Good Neighbor Hotels, including Camelot Inn & Suites, are within easy distance. In our case, we’re actually located right across the street! For those visiting Disneyland® on a budget, this puts you very literally minutes from the magic, but without the premium price tag.Our family-friendly rooms give you space to spread out, and you’ll have the freedom to head back mid-day for a nap, a swim, or a meal outside the park. That flexibility can make a tremendous difference, especially with younger kids or extended stays. Book your family’s stay today and make your Disneyland® trip as affordable as it is unforgettable.