Yes, magical express really was an awesome start to any trip, with bags magically appearing in your room. I also dearly miss resort deliveries. It was amazing coming back to your resort to a phone message telling you to pick up you stuff from the gift shop. Often I would almost forget what I'd bought that day, and it was like a mini Christmastime to unwrap everything.
I miss the Magical Express. It was so magical seeing the Castle on the way to the hotel. I agree with you about drinking water. I carried a refillable water bottle with me, and brought pedialyte powder packs with me. I also used the first aid spots when I needed them.
Exactly. I was telling my brother in law that it was too much money and we don't need it and all that and at the end of the day he told me he would have spent that much money without issue (family of 5!) That would have been over $100! Might as well buy another ticket for another day.
I agree !! And people are buying into it!! Ehh, it's fine.. we just came back from early May trip and enjoyed short standby lines. Here's to NOT spending more money than necessary in WDW🎉
I agree. Genie + has to be the most hated change Disney ever made to the parks. It’s an insult to pay extra for a ride when you have already paid a fortune just to enter the parks.
As driving mistkakes go, accidentally driving to Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the best! If this happens to you, park there and go exploring. You may well decide to stay there a few nights on your next trip, or even this one....
I agree, Animal Kingdom Lodge is the best place to go exploring! I would go exploring there on every trip, until I finally decided to stay a few days. 3 words, Boma sticky buns. 😍
Very happy to see you included the Swan&Dolphin resort. I found it a few years ago and now it is my families go to resort. Because it is ran by Marriott you can use your Bonvoy points and find other discounts and get it for about the price of a value resort. One other tip, if you go in November, they have their own food and wine festival and it is awesome! I strongly recommend it!
Bringing a small reusable water bottle is my go-to advice for park-goers! It’s easy to fill up for free at water bottle filling stations, water fountains, or a quick service (especially if you like ice!), and it’s a godsend to have while waiting in long lines. I have a small, insulated one that fits in my fanny pack/Loungefly bag, and there’s nothing like having some nice cold ice water with you without have to make a pit stop to get the free water cups 😊
My water bottle is huge, but I bring one for a family of five. I fill it with ice at the hotel and it stays cool for a long time. But it doesn’t fit in my loungefly backpack, so it’s not perfect lol
I’ve come to trust your analysis, AJ and this from someone who’s been a regular visitor since 1972. Your opinions don’t seem biased by Disney standing on your neck making sure you have approved opinions. Wishing the best for DFB.
We try to bring or buy one souvenir cup to share that gets us free refills all day. Also I personally say if the standby wait time is more than 45 minutes, consider skipping altogether. I only ever make exceptions for new rides which is when I will attempt getting genie+ stuff in the morning. If I couldn't get it, I'll say my max wait is 120 minutes, but I have to have never ridden it before to make that exception. Also, sometimes the stores in parks will price match the online disney store. This isn't a guarantee though.
The first time I took my grandkids to Disney, we stayed off-site on W. Iro Bronson Memorial Hwy. There were a ton of souvenir shops nearby. We cleaned up there!!! Now we go there all the time - save a TON of money!!! 💰 🤑 💸
This is so true, I think people should also consider getting an Annual pass for one person in the party if they’re going long enough to take advantage of the discounts!
If your on Vacation, Do not buy Genie+ so what if you have to wait in line? Your on Vacation, dont stress over time. It makes your time in the park like a mission not a fun time.
But some of us see time as money and waiting and not riding can be wasting TONS of money. I’m a planner, so doing the lightning lanes is an adventure and challenge for me, personally. It’s fun for me, so I’d say buy it if it’s a busy day. You’re on vacation, so… Don’t waste time standing in lines. Both of us are giving good advice, depending on the kind of person you are, in my opinion. ☺️
Idk, if you are there for a limited period of time and don't plan to come back soon or at all, probably trying to make the most out of that time is not a bad idea 🤷♀️
If by chance you get the free Disney Dining Plan, use those snack credits for breakfast! We did this, and when we got our quick-service meals that came with prepackaged sides like apple slices and carrots or prepackaged desserts, we carried those with us and used them for snacks during the day.
Also, snack credits can be used at many Outdoor Kitchens at EPCOT during festivals. Consider holding off on the snacks for a park day or two, and then using the ones you've saved for all you want tapas style by dining at the Outdoor Kitchens on snack credits!
@@Gussy507 Disney is creating offers from time to time for free dining. For example today if you have a Disney Rewards Visa card you can get free dining plan for all guest on a 4 day 4 night stay (with park hopper tickets) for select dates.
Loved these tips!! 🏰 I’m a frequent park visitor and I’d like to add - bring your own ponchos! FL storms can be pretty abrupt and violent and being caught in a downpour is notttt fun. Ponchos (disposable ones) outside of the park are generally only a few dollars whereas inside the park, they can be expensive. Also buying multiple really adds up. Hope this helps!! 🎉
It’s nice that you mentioned checking for merch on Disney Store online before purchasing in the parks. Last September there were a few items I was interested in that I didn’t think I’d have room for in my luggage so I looked at the store online, the items I was looking at were on Disney Store and they were 30% off! So I was getting a much better deal buying online. I found that on accident but now I always check to see if something I’m looking at in the parks is online. Might be cheaper!
The best Disney World tip is to stay at Coronado Springs Destino Tower. Deluxe without the price, tons of food, relaxing, and disney. If you can't deal with the bus just take an uber and I promise you will thank you if you have been a Pop/All Stars human.
Grand Destino Tower is a fabulous hotel. I view it as a mini Riviera without Skyliner access. Another WDW tip is to stay at the Swan or Dolphin, pay moderate prices and get deluxe perks! The 6pm virtual queue drops alone are worth it.
For tickets, if you are there multiple days and plan on going back to Disney within a year it might benefit you to get Annual Pass instead to save over the year. I live in GA and go about 3 times a year with 3/4 days a trip. It ends up evening out, plus with the additional discounts you get on rooms, merch, food, and other perks, it might be worth it for you and your family!
My daughter has bought Disney souvenirs at Wallmart bf we go ( more so the first time ) , Tee shirts , hats etc . She also bought the Disney Yellow ponchos at the CVS / Wallgreens near Disney . They were more than a fraction of the Disney cost. Don’t get me wrong we still hit up the Disney gift shops , so that they can find one souvenir that they want . In full disclosure, l live in FL and they have been there 3 times and are under the age of 10.
I'm always bringing home a disney souvenir for my dad after every trip. His favorite? A cheap mickey pen set I bought at an Orlando Target! Lol I've spent so much money on authentic stuff but he still loves those pens. @parkerwalker5128
This is something DFB won't say, but I will. Don't but the fuel rods, either online and especially not at the parks. The reason why is they are super expensive and you barely get a charge out of them, plus it's hard to get yours recharged when you want them. The newer fuel rods give you 3200 mAh compared to the previous 2600 mAh. You can find a good portable charger that gives you 10000 mAh for the same price as 2 fuel rods off Amazon. Now I get it, sometimes you need to buy one because you forgot your at home or the hotel, but try to save money and enjoy your time more at the parks... And everywhere else while you're at it
fuel rods are great in a pinch since you can get a fully charged one ASAP instead of needing to sit & charge up (if you say...forgot to charge yours overnight...speaking from experience), but our team DEFINITELY uses other chargers in addition. You're definitely paying for convenience when it comes to fuel rods
If you’re military and on a budget, Shades of Green might not be the cheapest options for a resort, especially as an officer! Sometimes Disney does 30% resorts and my family got the All Star resort and we saved almost $400 for the 6 nights. However tickets will ALWAYS be cheaper at your local MWR. You can buy them in person or over the phone!
I’ll probably never be able to afford going to Disneyworld and the stuff like the Disney genie stresses me out So I live vicariously through These videos
Character Warehouse has so many of the same souvenirs that are in the park for a FRACTION of the price. If it’s overstocked or out of season, it’ll likely be there! Go a day early if you can and take in Disney springs and the two character warehouse locations in Orlando. You can literally save HUNDREDS on patented Disney merch! ☺️
Surprised yall didn’t mention that Disney has a first aid spots in the parks where they can provide some medicine for free. I had food poisoning last trip and they were able to provide me some medicine for me. Granted there is a limit but it helped until we were able to go to the big box store to get more. Usually the spots are by the baby care centers.
We love the first aid spots! We feel like we talk about them all the time so we don’t include it every time and sometimes you need a BIG bottle of Advil on your Disney trip
For non-emergency help, there is first aid help at park entrances. If you're in the park, ask any cast member for medical help -- they will help as appropriate.
Do y'all have a list of mocktails around the Disney resorts / Disney Springs? I would love to drink around the world with my friends during my upcoming trip or just enjoy fun beverages but I'm not a fan of alcohol haha
there is no "love hate" with genie+ only hate the lines are too long, so everybody buys genie + which makes the line even LONGER after a posted 45minute wait for runaway railway turned into almost 2 hours because of the lightning lane ratio being 10 lightning lane people for every 1 basic line person. i just hate it and want genie+ to die in its entirety
We always went back to our hotel to change and drop off stuff, so park hopper worked out for us, we were able to do a few extra hours at animal kingdom that we otherwise wouldn’t have gotten because we hopped, and then went to a third park for fireworks.
just going to Disney at this time is a waste. variable pricing, genie +, higher costs of everything, with still the headaches of planning, its not worth it.
they opened as a joint venture between Disney, Tishman Hotel Corp, MetLife, & Starwood Hotels (which became Marriott in 2019). The land is Disney owned, but it's leased out and the hotels are operated by Marriott. The Dolphin is a Sheraton and the Swan is a Westin
Same people, buy a bottle of Cola from any food stand and not finish it to dump out of the recycling bin; but complaining and never buy Genie plus so always wait out side feel thirsty to buy more bottled drinks and could not finish them…
A lot of these are based off of not knowing how your kid will react. Some of these things you wont know how a kid will like it until theyre there.. also, for the dining plan... once you get it, buy your meals and snacks. Dont let it stress you out. Yes, research is nice. But use the credits how you want! If you end up getting the most expensive meal or snack, bonus! If you get the cheapest thing but it is what you want, still great! Just dont waste a credit but dont stress about beating disney over food. Have fun and enjoy "free" meals.
Despite the changes over the years it is still so very therapeutic for me to go. I'm a supervisor for a major international medical device company and chose to use my stock grants to buy into DVC back in 2022. I've already gotten back the money I put into it and more. Yes it's still very expensive. But after 30 years in the corporate world working up to my position with a six figure salary, I want to enjoy myself as best I can before my body deteriorates to the point I can no longer physically do Disney. I've already begun to feel the effects of aging and can no longer do 12 or 13 hour days from opening to closing the way I used to.
They have less long attractions to absorb the crowds. The parks have less attendance but less to do, keeping lines long and guests in gift shops and eaterys to beat the heat.
Another perspective on the shortened park days. Last time i went to Magic Kingdom, we did it on a shortened park day, and all the rides were a walk on that day. We had to leave at 6, but we got everything done. I'm fact I'm thinking i got this idea to do this from AJ? 🤔
Oh, what about using your own Cellphone to get pictures with the characters instead of using the photographers' cameras? The Photographers will take pictures of you using your cell phone for free.
The Driving tip is so incredibly valid. The easiest way to start Magic Kindom day off in the wrong mood is by driving to the wrong entrance. Don’t let it get you!
*Don't buy Memory Maker unless you are going to stop and take pictures,* and if you are going to use it, buy it when you schedule your trip not after you get to the park. Be warned, many of the characters (especially at Magic Kingdom) don't have human photographers, they use those horrible automatic cameras instead. Genie + gives you your ride photos, but not your other photos. So, if you only want ride photos buy Genie + not Memory Maker. You can still take pictures through the Photopass photographers even without having Memory Maker set up... and the photographers can, and will, use your phone instead.
Can i just say as a visitor from the UK I have been to Disney twice now, each for a 14 day Holiday (Vacation). Both times we stayed OFF Disney parks and in the suburbs,, First mistake booking a Rental car Too expensive when you add waiver Insurance and to be honest only really used Too/From the Airport, it was easier to Park it at the Apartment and use Shuttles. we got the mega ticket 10 Day and added waterparks for those relaxing days, we could walk to a Shuttle trolley bus stop (5 Minutes) and use them for a couple of $$ they ran every 10 minutes or in some places we could walk to a Water park (wet&Wild) even sea world 1/2 Hr so we can shop and explore on the way back, Food was cheaper even using a McDonalds on a few occasions, we also found a local Irish Pub near our Apartment/ Motel we used that even more, we bought refillable bottles and used in the Parks, anything extra we just bought a ticket for a show or late evening thing, a lot cheaper than having it on our All parks ticket, just need to plan what you want to do. Find out when local holidays are and book outside of these times It was still warmer (Sunny) Than the UK.
Sometimes the upcharge is worth it for the memory or if it's something really cool. Much of the time tho, it's just overpriced merch you can get elsewhere much cheaper :)
Basically enjoyed the video, but at the end, you mentioned saving at the Swan and Dolphin. Yes, their room rates are less, but you neglected to mention that the Swan and Dolphin have a mandatory resort fee of $ 45 Plus tax and parking there is $ 36 Plus tax per night. So you're already at an extra $ 81 plus tax per day. Disney Epcot resorts are more expensive, but do not charge a resort fee (yet).... and they've stopped their parking fee.... Plus if you are on a room-only reservation at one of the Disney Epcot resorts and need or want to leave early, there is no charge for an early departure. At least I wasn't charged and we've left early on occasion.. Packages are different.... AND, I just noticed on the Swan and Dolphin website that in the event you wish to depart earlier than your confirmed departure date a charge of one (1) night’s room and tax will be applied to your account. Granted, you probably still aren't up to a Disney Epcot resort room charge but if you are smart, you can find Disney discounts via AP, special stay longer and save, and Disney Visa discounts. Yes, I know the Swan and Dolphin have specials too.... Iit comes down to doing your homework!! Again, I enjoy your You Tube videos... Regards!!
I'm keen to try Drinking Around The World at Epcott 🍻 🍸 Will probably want to do the MockTail option for half of them though. I don't want to get drunk and ruin it.
Look Aj I can’t do that. I hate the taste of tap water especially Florida’s. I have to buy the bottled water or else I won’t drink it, plus since I have a water adversity I need the bottles so that way I can put in different flavor packets.
It can be used at restaurants in the parks, hotels, and Disney Springs! We’ve got a full list of the restaurants included here: www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024-disney-dining-plan-restaurants/
I understand the water thing...i completely get it.. but i will say in Magic Kingdom there are only 3 stations- 1 was out of order and the other 2 had really gross warm water coming out. So unfortunately i instantly regretted not doing what we always did in the past--- carry a backpack with a softside cooler containing frozen bottles of water. We had brought our Owalas thinking we would be clever but in MK... the water is gross, even the counter service water. Sorry.. for some reason the refill station at HS in Galaxys Edge was nice and cold. Also at ABC commissary you can refill water at the soda station and its good 👍
Kind of crazy it's more expensive than ever, more crowded than ever, and requires more "hack" knowledge to just visit the park these days. You could earn a degree in Disney Park visit planning.
It is very hard to plan a Disney trip what I’m worried about most is crowds I’m visiting from April 24 through the 30th. Will crowds be decent around that time or are they gonna be really high?
not for this exception; My daughter (age 30) and granddaughter (age 10) have the rest of 2024 entirely free at WSD. For Real. This past Dec. 1 I bought them each a Florida Annual Pass with parking. $500 each. The cost of a single day for me was $180. Are you following? They have been to WDW 8x as of this post (March 24, 2024.) THE REST OF 2024 IS PAID FOR 100% free. They are blocked out right now for spring break, but in 10 days they can start going again ALL OF APRIL.
@@esciteach7997 I'm following very well, but I don't think you are. Without giving away too much personal information, I don't live anywhere near a Disney theme park, which means that I'd have to spend a lot of money just to get to one. Then I'd also have to spend a lot of money on lodging (because, again, I don't live in the area, nor do I know anyone who'd allow me to stay at their place for free while I was there). So those two alone would probably be well over $500 right there. I also don't know anyone who'd pay my entry fee, so even for a single day ticket that's another $180 right there - and let's face it, if I'm traveling all the way to a Disney park, I'm staying a lot longer than one day, so that's another several hundred dollars easily just for admission. Then, if I were to do like your family does and go several times a year, I'd have to multiply those numbers trips and...well, there goes a considerable amount of (if not all of) my yearly income. And let's be honest here, the three of you are planning on going several more times this year before all is said and done. If I were to try to go as many times as you are, it would probably bankrupt me. (And if we're getting technical here, what you're doing isn't really "free" - just because your daughter and granddaughter aren't paying for it all doesn't mean that it's completely free.) By comparison, I could get a season ticket to the local amusement park that's just under 50 miles from my home (and I could get it for less than the $180 you're paying for a single day ticket to WDW) and have just as much fun as anything I'd be doing at Disney, and if I do things right the cost for the entire season probably wouldn't come out to $500. Keep in mind that what you said at the beginning of your post describes the situation very well. Your daughter and granddaughter are the *exception*, not the rule (and really, the only reason they get to even claim that much is because you're the one paying instead of them).
I walk 5 miles a day at work alone. I walk 10-15 miles at Disney per day and yes I usually go to the parks 4-10 days in a row. Some days aren't full park days but it's hard to not go to the parks. I get sever fomo
Staying at a resort is wasting a lot of money. There are some nice hotels off sight that offer nice things. I always stay at Comfort Inn. Eating in the parks is a big waste of money since the food is expensive. I get a few snacks and that's it and I bring my own food in. Also you waste money when you buy suveniers. I don't need the stuff and I got 2 shirts I need on line.
#1 problem. Choosing to go to Disney World. Seriously having to study like it's an advanced exam to understand bizarre systems, have your face in an app every second to monitor times...what kind of vacation is that? Inferior quality, smaller portions, higher prices, less of everything. Why give money to a park that hates the middle class?
Talking about kids being terrified by the characters then showing stitch throwing it back is so funny
I will miss the free fast passes and the convenience of it. I will mourn magical express being gone forever.
Free passes have been gone for ages
@@carol2girlsjust since the pandemic.
Yes, magical express really was an awesome start to any trip, with bags magically appearing in your room. I also dearly miss resort deliveries. It was amazing coming back to your resort to a phone message telling you to pick up you stuff from the gift shop. Often I would almost forget what I'd bought that day, and it was like a mini Christmastime to unwrap everything.
Magical express was awful.
why would fast passes be free? there needs to be a certain group that doesnt get it to make it a fast lane
I miss the Magical Express. It was so magical seeing the Castle on the way to the hotel. I agree with you about drinking water. I carried a refillable water bottle with me, and brought pedialyte powder packs with me. I also used the first aid spots when I needed them.
DFB, I'm in law school and I watch these videos every day on my lunch break, and it's one of the best parts of my day!
that's awesome! so glad we can bring a little Disney your way!
I find that so cute ❤
I am so happy they finally added water refill stations to the app!
Yes! No water refills should be treated like a “Where’s Waldo” game!
@@dfbbreea I agree! That was the most frustrating part of mine and my finances last trip! So glad we won’t have to play it again when we go next year!
Well they are usually by the bathrooms right?
Genie is the worst thing Disney ever introduced to the parks. And it will only change if people stop handing over their money
I agree.
im convinced those of you who believe genie+ is that bad, have absolutely no clue how to actually use it. i will drop money in it every single time.
Exactly. I was telling my brother in law that it was too much money and we don't need it and all that and at the end of the day he told me he would have spent that much money without issue (family of 5!) That would have been over $100! Might as well buy another ticket for another day.
I agree !! And people are buying into it!! Ehh, it's fine.. we just came back from early May trip and enjoyed short standby lines. Here's to NOT spending more money than necessary in WDW🎉
I agree. Genie + has to be the most hated change Disney ever made to the parks. It’s an insult to pay extra for a ride when you have already paid a fortune just to enter the parks.
My eyes too big for stomach moment: it turns out buying 6 Mickey Beignets is way too many for 1 person, 3 was plenty!
I just laughed so hard I snorted!!! 🤣🤣🤣
Look we all make some questionable decisions when Mickey beignets are involved
@@DFBGuide excuse me????
@@DFBGuideWe were staying at French Quarter, it had to be done!
@@m00gal🤣
As driving mistkakes go, accidentally driving to Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the best! If this happens to you, park there and go exploring. You may well decide to stay there a few nights on your next trip, or even this one....
I agree, Animal Kingdom Lodge is the best place to go exploring! I would go exploring there on every trip, until I finally decided to stay a few days. 3 words, Boma sticky buns. 😍
Very happy to see you included the Swan&Dolphin resort. I found it a few years ago and now it is my families go to resort. Because it is ran by Marriott you can use your Bonvoy points and find other discounts and get it for about the price of a value resort. One other tip, if you go in November, they have their own food and wine festival and it is awesome! I strongly recommend it!
Bringing a small reusable water bottle is my go-to advice for park-goers! It’s easy to fill up for free at water bottle filling stations, water fountains, or a quick service (especially if you like ice!), and it’s a godsend to have while waiting in long lines. I have a small, insulated one that fits in my fanny pack/Loungefly bag, and there’s nothing like having some nice cold ice water with you without have to make a pit stop to get the free water cups 😊
My water bottle is huge, but I bring one for a family of five. I fill it with ice at the hotel and it stays cool for a long time. But it doesn’t fit in my loungefly backpack, so it’s not perfect lol
I’ve come to trust your analysis, AJ and this from someone who’s been a regular visitor since 1972. Your opinions don’t seem biased by Disney standing on your neck making sure you have approved opinions. Wishing the best for DFB.
There are also Disney outlet stores that are very close to Disney world that offer a lot of the same merchandise for way cheaper
Break days of doing nothing but chilling at the resorts and walking Disney Springs are the best ❤
We try to bring or buy one souvenir cup to share that gets us free refills all day.
Also I personally say if the standby wait time is more than 45 minutes, consider skipping altogether. I only ever make exceptions for new rides which is when I will attempt getting genie+ stuff in the morning. If I couldn't get it, I'll say my max wait is 120 minutes, but I have to have never ridden it before to make that exception.
Also, sometimes the stores in parks will price match the online disney store. This isn't a guarantee though.
The first time I took my grandkids to Disney, we stayed off-site on W. Iro Bronson Memorial Hwy. There were a ton of souvenir shops nearby. We cleaned up there!!! Now we go there all the time - save a TON of money!!! 💰 🤑 💸
This is so true, I think people should also consider getting an Annual pass for one person in the party if they’re going long enough to take advantage of the discounts!
Thank you for mentioning the frozen mint tea in Morocco! It’s sooooo good!
I was just there and had short wait times every ride we went on and didnt even get tempted to get Genie+
Avoid the week between Christmas and New Year's, and the week after Presidents' Day. Most expensive and most crowded.
If your on Vacation, Do not buy Genie+
so what if you have to wait in line? Your on Vacation, dont stress over time. It makes your time in the park like a mission not a fun time.
But some of us see time as money and waiting and not riding can be wasting TONS of money. I’m a planner, so doing the lightning lanes is an adventure and challenge for me, personally. It’s fun for me, so I’d say buy it if it’s a busy day. You’re on vacation, so… Don’t waste time standing in lines. Both of us are giving good advice, depending on the kind of person you are, in my opinion. ☺️
Idk, if you are there for a limited period of time and don't plan to come back soon or at all, probably trying to make the most out of that time is not a bad idea 🤷♀️
thank you SO much for the mocktail information!! i was definitely someone commenting, i feel so seen! youre so appreciated!
Please please please do a video on All the mocktails at Disney.
If by chance you get the free Disney Dining Plan, use those snack credits for breakfast! We did this, and when we got our quick-service meals that came with prepackaged sides like apple slices and carrots or prepackaged desserts, we carried those with us and used them for snacks during the day.
How do you get for free?
@@Gussy507 Recently they had a promotion where Disney Plus subscribers could add the Dining Plan for free. Don't know if that's still available.
Also, snack credits can be used at many Outdoor Kitchens at EPCOT during festivals. Consider holding off on the snacks for a park day or two, and then using the ones you've saved for all you want tapas style by dining at the Outdoor Kitchens on snack credits!
@@Gussy507 Disney is creating offers from time to time for free dining. For example today if you have a Disney Rewards Visa card you can get free dining plan for all guest on a 4 day 4 night stay (with park hopper tickets) for select dates.
"we don't want people to think we're not cool." TOO LATE! We know you're a dork, but so are we. We dorks gotta stick together!
Cringe but FREE
Loved these tips!! 🏰 I’m a frequent park visitor and I’d like to add - bring your own ponchos! FL storms can be pretty abrupt and violent and being caught in a downpour is notttt fun. Ponchos (disposable ones) outside of the park are generally only a few dollars whereas inside the park, they can be expensive. Also buying multiple really adds up. Hope this helps!! 🎉
It’s nice that you mentioned checking for merch on Disney Store online before purchasing in the parks. Last September there were a few items I was interested in that I didn’t think I’d have room for in my luggage so I looked at the store online, the items I was looking at were on Disney Store and they were 30% off! So I was getting a much better deal buying online. I found that on accident but now I always check to see if something I’m looking at in the parks is online. Might be cheaper!
The best Disney World tip is to stay at Coronado Springs Destino Tower. Deluxe without the price, tons of food, relaxing, and disney. If you can't deal with the bus just take an uber and I promise you will thank you if you have been a Pop/All Stars human.
Grand Destino Tower is a fabulous hotel. I view it as a mini Riviera without Skyliner access. Another WDW tip is to stay at the Swan or Dolphin, pay moderate prices and get deluxe perks! The 6pm virtual queue drops alone are worth it.
@@mrsmagicalmonicathis!
For tickets, if you are there multiple days and plan on going back to Disney within a year it might benefit you to get Annual Pass instead to save over the year. I live in GA and go about 3 times a year with 3/4 days a trip. It ends up evening out, plus with the additional discounts you get on rooms, merch, food, and other perks, it might be worth it for you and your family!
My daughter has bought Disney souvenirs at Wallmart bf we go ( more so the first time ) , Tee shirts , hats etc .
She also bought the Disney Yellow ponchos at the CVS / Wallgreens near Disney . They were more than a fraction of the Disney cost.
Don’t get me wrong we still hit up the Disney gift shops , so that they can find one souvenir that they want . In full disclosure, l live in FL and they have been there 3 times and are under the age of 10.
Target has great Disney items, from toys to swimsuits, and occasionally Mickey Ears. And they almost look identical to some items at the parks! 😍
I'm always bringing home a disney souvenir for my dad after every trip. His favorite? A cheap mickey pen set I bought at an Orlando Target! Lol I've spent so much money on authentic stuff but he still loves those pens. @parkerwalker5128
I love that story !!! I still have a micky shaped pen that no longer works that a student gave me 20 years ago in NJ after her trip to Disney World !!
This is something DFB won't say, but I will. Don't but the fuel rods, either online and especially not at the parks. The reason why is they are super expensive and you barely get a charge out of them, plus it's hard to get yours recharged when you want them. The newer fuel rods give you 3200 mAh compared to the previous 2600 mAh. You can find a good portable charger that gives you 10000 mAh for the same price as 2 fuel rods off Amazon. Now I get it, sometimes you need to buy one because you forgot your at home or the hotel, but try to save money and enjoy your time more at the parks... And everywhere else while you're at it
fuel rods are great in a pinch since you can get a fully charged one ASAP instead of needing to sit & charge up (if you say...forgot to charge yours overnight...speaking from experience), but our team DEFINITELY uses other chargers in addition. You're definitely paying for convenience when it comes to fuel rods
Buying a bottle of water or soda for several bucks. A stop at RaceTrac will fix that with a quick and affordable fill-up. :D
Buying souvenirs online is NOT the same as buying the park. It ruins all the fun. I'll happily spend a little more to get items from the parks.
If you’re military and on a budget, Shades of Green might not be the cheapest options for a resort, especially as an officer! Sometimes Disney does 30% resorts and my family got the All Star resort and we saved almost $400 for the 6 nights.
However tickets will ALWAYS be cheaper at your local MWR. You can buy them in person or over the phone!
I’ll probably never be able to afford going to Disneyworld and the stuff like the Disney genie stresses me out
So I live vicariously through
These videos
Character Warehouse has so many of the same souvenirs that are in the park for a FRACTION of the price. If it’s overstocked or out of season, it’ll likely be there! Go a day early if you can and take in Disney springs and the two character warehouse locations in Orlando. You can literally save HUNDREDS on patented Disney merch! ☺️
Surprised yall didn’t mention that Disney has a first aid spots in the parks where they can provide some medicine for free. I had food poisoning last trip and they were able to provide me some medicine for me. Granted there is a limit but it helped until we were able to go to the big box store to get more. Usually the spots are by the baby care centers.
We love the first aid spots! We feel like we talk about them all the time so we don’t include it every time and sometimes you need a BIG bottle of Advil on your Disney trip
For non-emergency help, there is first aid help at park entrances. If you're in the park, ask any cast member for medical help -- they will help as appropriate.
Do y'all have a list of mocktails around the Disney resorts / Disney Springs? I would love to drink around the world with my friends during my upcoming trip or just enjoy fun beverages but I'm not a fan of alcohol haha
Our flights leave a week from yesterday. Get hype!!
there is no "love hate" with genie+ only hate
the lines are too long, so everybody buys genie + which makes the line even LONGER
after a posted 45minute wait for runaway railway turned into almost 2 hours because of the lightning lane ratio being 10 lightning lane people for every 1 basic line person. i just hate it and want genie+ to die in its entirety
8:20 that’s what happened to my little one last year when we went
I wish you guys would talk about Magicbands and if it’s worth it to buy Magic bands +.
Park Hopper is a waste unless your trip time is limited. Precious park time is wasted traveling.
I love park hopper! I like that it gives us options. We do go back to our on-site hotel for a couple hours in the early afternoon, so ...
@@darbymori350 park Hopper is great but it does waste time. Lots of extra steps in and out of parks too.
Not if you're driving yourself park to park. Disney transportation is what takes so long
@@johnpurvis4327I upgrade to preferred parking when I'm going to try for 3 or 4 parks a day. Epcot is the closest parking
We always went back to our hotel to change and drop off stuff, so park hopper worked out for us, we were able to do a few extra hours at animal kingdom that we otherwise wouldn’t have gotten because we hopped, and then went to a third park for fireworks.
Can you do a 14 day plan video including Universal? That'd be really helpful!
@AJ, You know why no one says, "YOLO!", anymore? I'm convinced all those people who used to say it are dead now.
I said yolo just the other day when booking my October WDW trip 😂😂 we live on
What does YOLO mean?
just going to Disney at this time is a waste. variable pricing, genie +, higher costs of everything, with still the headaches of planning, its not worth it.
The day people do not leave when the party tickets kick in. Cast members rarely check them or kick them out.
The Swan and Dolphin were Disney Resort Hotels for years. When did they sell them to Marriott?
they opened as a joint venture between Disney, Tishman Hotel Corp, MetLife, & Starwood Hotels (which became Marriott in 2019). The land is Disney owned, but it's leased out and the hotels are operated by Marriott. The Dolphin is a Sheraton and the Swan is a Westin
I waste a lot of money at home, so this is going to be super useful
I got a Disney dining card which was sorta separate from the dining plan and I used every bit to splurge on good food
Same people, buy a bottle of Cola from any food stand and not finish it to dump out of the recycling bin; but complaining and never buy Genie plus so always wait out side feel thirsty to buy more bottled drinks and could not finish them…
A lot of these are based off of not knowing how your kid will react. Some of these things you wont know how a kid will like it until theyre there.. also, for the dining plan... once you get it, buy your meals and snacks. Dont let it stress you out. Yes, research is nice. But use the credits how you want! If you end up getting the most expensive meal or snack, bonus! If you get the cheapest thing but it is what you want, still great! Just dont waste a credit but dont stress about beating disney over food. Have fun and enjoy "free" meals.
I miss being able to add genie+ for $15/day for the whole trip when you booked your trip. I havent bought it again since they changed
It still surprises me that WDW is so crowded despite having gotten so expensive.
apparently some people have the money
@@jd8184don't underestimate the amount of people who will go into crippling credit card debt, just for a Disney trip
Credit card debit is also all time high
Despite the changes over the years it is still so very therapeutic for me to go. I'm a supervisor for a major international medical device company and chose to use my stock grants to buy into DVC back in 2022. I've already gotten back the money I put into it and more. Yes it's still very expensive. But after 30 years in the corporate world working up to my position with a six figure salary, I want to enjoy myself as best I can before my body deteriorates to the point I can no longer physically do Disney. I've already begun to feel the effects of aging and can no longer do 12 or 13 hour days from opening to closing the way I used to.
They have less long attractions to absorb the crowds. The parks have less attendance but less to do, keeping lines long and guests in gift shops and eaterys to beat the heat.
Another perspective on the shortened park days. Last time i went to Magic Kingdom, we did it on a shortened park day, and all the rides were a walk on that day. We had to leave at 6, but we got everything done. I'm fact I'm thinking i got this idea to do this from AJ? 🤔
I agree as well - price gouging 😅😅😅
No such thing as wasted money
Oh, what about using your own Cellphone to get pictures with the characters instead of using the photographers' cameras? The Photographers will take pictures of you using your cell phone for free.
The Driving tip is so incredibly valid. The easiest way to start Magic Kindom day off in the wrong mood is by driving to the wrong entrance. Don’t let it get you!
You waste your $$$ the minute you pay for parking. It’s all down hill from there.
*Don't buy Memory Maker unless you are going to stop and take pictures,* and if you are going to use it, buy it when you schedule your trip not after you get to the park.
Be warned, many of the characters (especially at Magic Kingdom) don't have human photographers, they use those horrible automatic cameras instead.
Genie + gives you your ride photos, but not your other photos. So, if you only want ride photos buy Genie + not Memory Maker.
You can still take pictures through the Photopass photographers even without having Memory Maker set up... and the photographers can, and will, use your phone instead.
Can i just say as a visitor from the UK I have been to Disney twice now, each for a 14 day Holiday (Vacation). Both times we stayed OFF Disney parks and in the suburbs,, First mistake booking a Rental car Too expensive when you add waiver Insurance and to be honest only really used Too/From the Airport, it was easier to Park it at the Apartment and use Shuttles. we got the mega ticket 10 Day and added waterparks for those relaxing days, we could walk to a Shuttle trolley bus stop (5 Minutes) and use them for a couple of $$ they ran every 10 minutes or in some places we could walk to a Water park (wet&Wild) even sea world 1/2 Hr so we can shop and explore on the way back, Food was cheaper even using a McDonalds on a few occasions, we also found a local Irish Pub near our Apartment/ Motel we used that even more, we bought refillable bottles and used in the Parks, anything extra we just bought a ticket for a show or late evening thing, a lot cheaper than having it on our All parks ticket, just need to plan what you want to do. Find out when local holidays are and book outside of these times It was still warmer (Sunny) Than the UK.
I never take rest days at Disney. To me that is a waste of money! I can have a rest day when I get home for free! lol 😊
I can't believe people still go there!
Sometimes the upcharge is worth it for the memory or if it's something really cool. Much of the time tho, it's just overpriced merch you can get elsewhere much cheaper :)
Aloha from Northern, Illinois!
Basically enjoyed the video, but at the end, you mentioned saving at the Swan and Dolphin. Yes, their room rates are less, but you neglected to mention that the Swan and Dolphin have a mandatory resort fee of $ 45 Plus tax and parking there is $ 36 Plus tax per night. So you're already at an extra $ 81 plus tax per day. Disney Epcot resorts are more expensive, but do not charge a resort fee (yet).... and they've stopped their parking fee.... Plus if you are on a room-only reservation at one of the Disney Epcot resorts and need or want to leave early, there is no charge for an early departure. At least I wasn't charged and we've left early on occasion.. Packages are different.... AND, I just noticed on the Swan and Dolphin website that in the event you wish to depart earlier than your confirmed departure date a charge of one (1) night’s room and tax will be applied to your account. Granted, you probably still aren't up to a Disney Epcot resort room charge but if you are smart, you can find Disney discounts via AP, special stay longer and save, and Disney Visa discounts. Yes, I know the Swan and Dolphin have specials too.... Iit comes down to doing your homework!! Again, I enjoy your You Tube videos... Regards!!
I'm keen to try Drinking Around The World at Epcott 🍻 🍸
Will probably want to do the MockTail option for half of them though. I don't want to get drunk and ruin it.
Look Aj I can’t do that. I hate the taste of tap water especially Florida’s. I have to buy the bottled water or else I won’t drink it, plus since I have a water adversity I need the bottles so that way I can put in different flavor packets.
Can you use Disney Dining plans in the parks or just at resorts?
It can be used at restaurants in the parks, hotels, and Disney Springs! We’ve got a full list of the restaurants included here: www.disneyfoodblog.com/2024-disney-dining-plan-restaurants/
I understand the water thing...i completely get it.. but i will say in Magic Kingdom there are only 3 stations- 1 was out of order and the other 2 had really gross warm water coming out. So unfortunately i instantly regretted not doing what we always did in the past--- carry a backpack with a softside cooler containing frozen bottles of water. We had brought our Owalas thinking we would be clever but in MK... the water is gross, even the counter service water. Sorry.. for some reason the refill station at HS in Galaxys Edge was nice and cold. Also at ABC commissary you can refill water at the soda station and its good 👍
Kind of crazy it's more expensive than ever, more crowded than ever, and requires more "hack" knowledge to just visit the park these days. You could earn a degree in Disney Park visit planning.
Was anyone else seeing Mickey ears (hidden Mickey?) in the clouds during the "driving in circles" segment?!!!
The worst way people waste money in Disney World going in the first place it's the stupidest place in the world
honestly, I'm listening and listening... and just think Disney World trip is absolute nightmare worth yearly salary
What resorts outside Disney property gives you the perks like Disney property?
It is very hard to plan a Disney trip what I’m worried about most is crowds I’m visiting from April 24 through the 30th. Will crowds be decent around that time or are they gonna be really high?
Also, is there a video or can we get some tips about visiting Disney parks without a car specifically using public transit and Uber
If after 7am you book a 5pm ride time can u book multiple rides after the 120 minute rule
Each time you book a ride more than two hours away, you can book another ride after 120 minutes. Once per ride.
Just going to the park is a waste of money, is too expensive….
Any recommendations for good non alcoholic drinks in France and Canada?
Going there is the biggest waste of money?
how do they enforce the early closure for day guests?
Wristbands which you must show to line up for rides.
What do you recommend for a trip to Disney in October ??
The whole thing is a rip off
The #1 worst way to waste money there? Going to a Disney theme park
not for this exception; My daughter (age 30) and granddaughter (age 10) have the rest of 2024 entirely free at WSD. For Real. This past Dec. 1 I bought them each a Florida Annual Pass with parking. $500 each. The cost of a single day for me was $180. Are you following? They have been to WDW 8x as of this post (March 24, 2024.) THE REST OF 2024 IS PAID FOR 100% free. They are blocked out right now for spring break, but in 10 days they can start going again ALL OF APRIL.
@@esciteach7997 I'm following very well, but I don't think you are. Without giving away too much personal information, I don't live anywhere near a Disney theme park, which means that I'd have to spend a lot of money just to get to one. Then I'd also have to spend a lot of money on lodging (because, again, I don't live in the area, nor do I know anyone who'd allow me to stay at their place for free while I was there). So those two alone would probably be well over $500 right there. I also don't know anyone who'd pay my entry fee, so even for a single day ticket that's another $180 right there - and let's face it, if I'm traveling all the way to a Disney park, I'm staying a lot longer than one day, so that's another several hundred dollars easily just for admission.
Then, if I were to do like your family does and go several times a year, I'd have to multiply those numbers trips and...well, there goes a considerable amount of (if not all of) my yearly income. And let's be honest here, the three of you are planning on going several more times this year before all is said and done. If I were to try to go as many times as you are, it would probably bankrupt me. (And if we're getting technical here, what you're doing isn't really "free" - just because your daughter and granddaughter aren't paying for it all doesn't mean that it's completely free.)
By comparison, I could get a season ticket to the local amusement park that's just under 50 miles from my home (and I could get it for less than the $180 you're paying for a single day ticket to WDW) and have just as much fun as anything I'd be doing at Disney, and if I do things right the cost for the entire season probably wouldn't come out to $500.
Keep in mind that what you said at the beginning of your post describes the situation very well. Your daughter and granddaughter are the *exception*, not the rule (and really, the only reason they get to even claim that much is because you're the one paying instead of them).
Buying rare Lego pieces in Legoland Germany is never a waste on the other hand. 👍💎
1 is going
We went to Disneyland for 3 days in a row and we could barely walk by the 3rd day. We walked 39 miles in 3 days. How do people go 5 days in a row?😂
Training and pure will lol
I walk 5 miles a day at work alone. I walk 10-15 miles at Disney per day and yes I usually go to the parks 4-10 days in a row. Some days aren't full park days but it's hard to not go to the parks. I get sever fomo
When visiting from the UK we tend to do 14 days 😅
Why would anyone buy a balloon at Disney biggest waste of money
What are the best resorts to stay for a week
can you still bring food into the park?
Can someone tell me where that cone with the small bread and the dipping sauces shown at 9:09 is called and where it’s from please ☺️
It's the breakfast at topolino terrace
@@eliseihle4574 thank you!!
Genuine question: how the hell are people still affording Disney?!
#1 buying genie plus and doing exactly what disney wants. Your money
do they still have those refill stations ? i figure covid shut those down forever
You're still spending money on break days. Might as well spend some of the day in parks and some in the resort.
Is it just me that doesn’t go in the morning and stay till the fireworks?? I go do 1 ride like pirates or something then it’s the fireworks
To be honest that’s when I’m staying on site or in
Going
Staying at a resort is wasting a lot of money. There are some nice hotels off sight that offer nice things. I always stay at Comfort Inn. Eating in the parks is a big waste of money since the food is expensive. I get a few snacks and that's it and I bring my own food in. Also you waste money when you buy suveniers. I don't need the stuff and I got 2 shirts I need on line.
#1 problem. Choosing to go to Disney World. Seriously having to study like it's an advanced exam to understand bizarre systems, have your face in an app every second to monitor times...what kind of vacation is that? Inferior quality, smaller portions, higher prices, less of everything. Why give money to a park that hates the middle class?
Can i addd the water park option when i get to the park?
Yes you can upgrade at any ticket booth or resort (hotel) desk
@@vincent412l7 thank you