While theme parks are high on the list of favorite vacation destinations, they can getreallyexpensivereallyquickly.
Here at The Penny Hoarder, we believe in a healthy balance between work and play.
Check out the insider tips Ive developed as an Orlando native and former witch at Universals Diagon Alley.
Youll save money in the parks without sacrificing any of the fun.
it’s possible for you to save up to $20 per person when you buy multi-day tickets online.
If youre traveling with a family of four, thats $80 in savings already.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Ask one of these companies to help…
2.
Once your tickets expire, youll have to pay for new ones.
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4.
Shop Around Carefully
Orlando is riddled with sleazy ticket vendors promising half-price theme park tickets.
But beware, even if the tickets you purchasearereal, these vendors may be selling them illegally.
These tickets often come from park employees or locals who work special events and receive complimentary passes.
Universal does not permit the sale of these passes.
If you get caught at the gate, youre out of luck and money.
Still, there are some reputable ticket sites out there.
Just see to it to do your research on the seller before buying.
Here are some strategies for saving on these expenses.
To Resort or Not to Resort?
There are less expensive hotels (or Airbnb rentals!)
(Think: Family of four spending four days in the parks.
$300 times four people times four days = $4,800.)
Did you catch all that?
), then a cheaper, off-property hotel might be the right answer for your family.
Im just trying to show you all the options, friends!
Visitors can often package Express Passes with admission tickets, lowering the overall cost significantly.
Attendance is lowest on weekdays, particularly in late fall and late winter.
Avoid buying expensive sodas and bottled water inside the parks.
it’s possible for you to bring in sealed or empty water bottles to refill throughout the day.
Save money on souvenirs by purchasing toys from a different retailer and packing them in your suitcase.
Then, when you arrive at your hotel, sneak them out and make themmagicallyappear on your kids pillows.
Take Advantage of Every Discount
American Express offers discounts at Universal, but the perks change often.
you’re able to download the Universal Orlando app to see which offers are available through American Express.
Just be sure to add the offers to your account!
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15.
Ive got some experience navigating the system.
But know that Universals main goal is to give every guest an incredible experience.
You just dont build an empire on fantasy and fun without having some extra special perks for your visitors.
If something goes wrong, dont be afraid to let a team member know about the issue.
So dont be afraid to ask for some extra perks within reason, of course!
Take time to sit down and decide exactlyhow much you might afford to spend on your theme park vacation.
after you snag a number, put together a trip that works within the confines of that budget.
(You dont need it, I promise.)
Grace Schweizer is the SMS and social media content writer at The Penny Hoarder.
Orlando-born and bred, she knows her way around the theme parks.
Freelancer Sean Cudahy contributed to this report.
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