Oh, you know how much I love traveling if you’ve read my blog for even a short amount of time. (And if you just look at the menu bar at the top and the different categories of posts featured below, you can see just how many are dedicated to cheap travel.
I’ve been to Orlando once, in second grade, when we went to Disney World. I had a great time. If you are planning a trip to Orlando, here are some ways to keep the costs down.
Is there anything more exciting than getting ready for a family vacation? Family time together is so precious, and with work, school, and other responsibilities looming large over our usual routines, making sure that your daily vacation goes ahead without a hitch is so important. And, one of the major elements of a successful family getaway is sticking to your budget. Not only is family time special, but it can also come at an expensive rate, especially if you’re planning to visit somewhere like Orlando, which, despite its world-class theme parks, wonderful weather, and family-oriented activities, doesn’t come cheap!
So, is it really possible for families to have fun and save when visiting Florida? We think so! In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some simple but highly effective budgeting tips and hacks that will ensure everyone has a great time on your Orlando family vacation, without breaking the bank, of course.
Keep Transportation Costs Down
Figured out how to get around Orlando yet? Getting from A to B can be tricky, especially with kids, luggage, day bags, picnics, strollers, and everything else in tow. While getting public transport or taxis here and there might sound practical, ask yourself if catching endless buses with tired children, or paying for extortionate taxi rides is really worth it? An alternative option? Orlando airport car rental. By picking up your car from the airport, you can take all the confusion out of public transport and enjoy your family vacation at your own pace from the moment you step off the plane.
Whether you’re heading to one of the many theme parks in the area, or you want to hit the beach, whatever items you need to bring with you, as well as all your family members can easily fit in your hire car. So there’s no need to lug around heavy bags, fork out huge amounts for Uber services, or manage cranky little ones on public transport. Hiring a car makes sense both financially and practically for any family vacation to Orlando.
Pack Smart to Keep Costs Down
There’s nothing more frustrating than realizing you’ve left the essentials at home. This usually means that someone has to miss out, or you have to spend a small fortune duplicating items you left in the hallway back home. Make sure you have the following items with you when you leave – it can save you time and money later:
- Refillable water bottles: You can fill these up at various restaurants and public areas in Orlando – it’ll keep everyone hydrated in the heat.
- Hats & Sunglasses: No one wants to have to buy replacements!
- Mini Umbrella or Stroller Cover: Helpful for shade and sudden downpours.
- Lightweight Ponchos: Orlando’s weather can change fast, and summer showers are common. Pack reusable ponchos for everyone so you’re not shelling out $15 a pop at the theme parks.
Eating on a Budget
Family meals are expensive when on vacation, but with some careful planning you can save your dollars to spend another day. Orlando is absolutely bursting with family-friendly restaurants, budget eateries, and creative ways to eat that are all part of the experience. Whether you’re in the theme parks or exploring local neighborhoods, here’s how to keep tummies full and the costs down!
- Look for Kids Eat Free Deals: Eateries like Denny’s, Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, Miller’s Ale House, and Cicis Pizza offer kids eat for free deals or discounts with adult meals on certain nights or during lunch periods. It’s a simple but effective way for everyone to enjoy a meal without overspending.
- Try Local Food Courts and Malls: If you have picky eaters in tow, this option can certainly make things easier. You’ll find food halls in abundance in Orlando, places like East End Market, ICON Park Food Court, and the Florida Mall Food Court are packed with options from Latin offerings and pizzas to fast food favorites, fresh sandwiches, and homemade pastries.
- Stay at Hotels that Offer Breakfast: When booking your room, see if meals are included. Many hotel chains in Orlando offer hot buffet breakfasts as part of their rate.
- Cook Your Own Meals: If you’re staying in a hotel or room with cooking facilities, then you should take full advantage. Try shopping at local farmers’ markets for fresh produce, or a new supermarket, and make some dishes together as a family.
Maximize the Fun! Without Blowing Your Budget
Ok, so you’re probably well aware of all the incredible theme parks that are on your doorstep in Orlando, and you and your entire family will be spoiled for choice. But, if your budget is limited or doesn’t stretch to multiple days at theme parks, then you might be wondering how else to spend your time. Well, don’t worry, here are some top picks for maximizing joy without maxing out your budget or patience!
- Crayola Experience (Florida Mall): Perfect if you want to escape the heat or a sudden downpour. Here you’ll find hands-on creative fun for all ages, where you can melt crayons, name your own shade, and explore dozens of art stations!
- SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium (ICON Park): Walk through a 360° ocean tunnel, get up close with sea creatures, and enjoy educational fun in some much-needed AC!
- The Escape Game Orlando: Escape rooms that are also fun for little ones and teens alike, with age-appropriate themed rooms everyone will enjoy.
- WonderWorks: The upside-down building filled with science exhibits, interactive games, and even an indoor ropes course is a great way to spend an afternoon away from the crowds and hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
Final Thoughts…
Family vacations are so precious, it’s important to plan as much as you can so that everyone (including mom and dad) has a good time without spending a fortune. Remember to include extra breaks and downtime in your daily itineraries so everyone has the chance to refuel and recharge before the fun starts again. Are you planning a family vacation to Orlando?
