For many, the desire to enjoy a well deserved vacation at Walt Disneyworld is just beyond their reach due to costs. One area that Disneyworld has helped in the past few years is the policy change to allow outside food and drinks into their four Theme Parks. There is probably no area within a budget that is more difficult to control than that of food expense. Providing meals and drinks that will please everyone’s palate, and satisfy those cravings when and where they occur is just not easy. With some pre-trip planning and purchasing, anyone can keep those costs in line and still enjoy that special Disneyworld cuisine.
One way to begin the planning is to consider what your family enjoys most. Maybe everyone appreciates a good breakfast, or the idea of enjoying a Lighthouse sandwich at a Columbia Harbour House in Liberty Square, or everyone just loves those Dole whips found at Aloha Isle in Adventureland (both can only be found in Magic Kingdom, check the Disneyworld park map for directions). Whatever is special should be planned for and money set aside. For all those other meals, snack and drinks consider bringing into the theme park inexpensive and simple items that will satisfy everyone and still keep your costs down. There are several grocery stores in the surrounding area adjacent to Walt Disneyworld, with some open 24 hours, or within a walking distance to Downtown Disney, so pre-purchasing before your arrival is not required. There are limitations to the size of gear used to carry in those goodies, a bag no larger than 24″ x 15″ x 18″ is allowed, and you are not allowed to bring in glass bottles (with limited exception of baby food) and no alcoholic beverages. Take the time to visit http://www.disneyworld.disney.go for the specific policies and regulations.
With just a little planning and preparation, your family can enjoy some incredible food and drinks that Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios has to offer. Have you or your family any special ways to reduce your food costs while enjoying Walt Disneyworld? Please tell us your secrets and planning tips.