Planning a trip to Orlando with kids can be a dream come true, but it can also be financially challenging, especially when considering rising costs for flights, accommodation, park tickets, and food.

However, with good planning and some smart strategies, it’s possible to save money without compromising on an amazing experience for the whole family.
In this article, we will share valuable tips on how to save at each stage of your Orlando trip, from the initial planning to the experience at the theme parks.

Advance planning and researching deals

The key to saving money on a trip to Orlando begins long before you set foot on the plane. Planning ahead and researching the best deals can make a huge difference in your overall travel costs.

Airfare

Buy your tickets well in advance and use price comparison tools like Google Flights, Kayak, or Skyscanner to find the best fares.
Traveling during the low season (January, February, September, and October) can also result in significant savings on flights, as well as less crowded flights, which can be more comfortable when traveling with young children.

Accommodation

When choosing where to stay, look for family-friendly hotels that offer additional benefits like free breakfast or free shuttle service to the parks. Another cost-effective option is renting a vacation home through platforms like Airbnb.
These options allow you to prepare meals onsite, reducing the costs of dining out.

Theme park tickets

Theme park tickets represent a large portion of any Orlando trip budget. One way to save is by purchasing tickets in advance through authorized resellers, who often offer discounts and special packages.
Another tip is to buy multi-day tickets, as parks offer decreasing prices per additional day visited.

Saving on food

Food costs can be high in Orlando, especially inside the theme parks. However, there are effective ways to cut these expenses.

Breakfast at the hotel or home

If your hotel offers free breakfast, make the most of it, ensuring everyone eats well before heading to the parks. If you’re renting a house or apartment, buy basic groceries at a local supermarket and prepare breakfast at home.
This can lead to significant savings throughout your trip.

Bring snacks and drinks

One of the best ways to save inside the theme parks is to bring your own snacks and drinks. Many parks allow non-alcoholic food and drinks to be brought in.
Snacks like fruits, cookies, sandwiches, and water can be packed in backpacks and ensure that the family doesn’t need to buy food frequently inside the parks.

Lunches and dinners outside the parks

Eating inside the parks is more expensive than dining at nearby restaurants. Plan to leave the parks for lunch or dinner at nearby restaurants, where prices are more affordable.
Additionally, many Orlando restaurants offer kids’ menus with smaller portions and reduced prices, perfect for young children.

Affordable transportation

Transportation in Orlando can represent a significant cost, especially if you rent a car. However, there are ways to reduce these expenses.

Free hotel transportation

Many hotels in Orlando, especially those located near the theme parks, offer free shuttle service to the parks. By using these services, you save on car rental, fuel, and parking, which can cost up to $25 per day at the parks.

Stroller rental

Renting strollers in the parks can be expensive, especially for families with young children, and the park strollers are often uncomfortable. A great way to save on stroller rentals is to rent them for the entire duration of your trip.

At StrollerCare, you can rent your stroller from the comfort of your home and have it delivered directly to you when you arrive in Orlando, at the location of your choice. New, sanitized, and very comfortable strollers for all ages.
Get your quote directly on our website, and if you need help, just contact our team via the chat here on the blog.

Free or low-cost activities in Orlando

Orlando offers several free or low-cost activities that can complement the fun at the theme parks and help keep the travel budget in check.

Disney Springs and CityWalk

Both Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are free entertainment areas where you can walk around, explore shops, watch live performances, and enjoy the magical atmosphere without paying park admission.
While some restaurants and activities in these areas are paid, there is plenty to see and do for free.

Parks and recreation areas

In addition to theme parks, Orlando has several public parks and free or low-cost recreation areas, such as Lake Eola Park, where families can picnic, rent pedal boats, and enjoy the scenery.
Another option is Winter Park, which has open spaces for children to play, as well as farmers’ markets and local events.

Extra tips for saving

Use apps and coupons: Many restaurants, stores, and attractions in Orlando offer discounts through apps or online coupons. Look for discount coupons on specialized websites or directly on restaurant and park apps.

Travel packages: While this isn’t always the most cost-effective option, sometimes buying packages that combine flights, accommodation, and tickets from travel agencies can be cheaper than purchasing everything separately.

With our tips, you’ve probably realized that traveling to Orlando with kids can be a magical and affordable experience with good planning.

You can significantly save on airfare, accommodation, food, and tickets, allowing the family to enjoy everything Orlando has to offer without breaking the bank. Remember also to rent your stroller in advance with StrollerCare.
With a few smart strategies, you can turn this dream trip into reality without compromising comfort and fun.

Images: disneyworld.disney.go.com