How to Save Big at Disneyland: Our Favorite Family Money-Saving Hacks

We’ve been to Disneyland more times than we can count, and we’ve picked up some amazing tips for saving money while still having a blast. Disneyland is an incredible place to visit, but it can also be really expensive if you're not careful. From food costs to souvenirs, expenses can add up quickly. But don't worry, we’ve figured out a few money-saving hacks that keep our family’s budget in check while still letting us enjoy all the magic the park has to offer. Here are our top tips!

1. Walmart Pickup + Pack Your Own Food Into the Park

Before heading into Disneyland, we make sure to stop by Walmart Supercenter on Euclid for a quick grocery pickup. It’s super convenient because we can place the order ahead of time, and when we arrive, everything is ready to go. You can find this Walmart at: Walmart Euclid, Anaheim.

We stock up on a variety of food for the trip, and here’s what makes the cut:

• Sandwich Ingredients: Buying sandwich fixings like bread, deli meats, cheese, and condiments saves a ton of money compared to buying meals inside the park. Plus, you get to make exactly what you like, and it’s way cheaper!

• Snacks: We love bringing a variety of snacks for the kids (and adults!). We pick up string cheese, cutie tangerines, granola bars, and trail mix. These snacks are easy to carry, don’t require refrigeration for a few hours, and keep everyone energized between rides.

• Drinks: We make sure to grab bottled water and maybe some juice boxes for the kids. You can fill up water bottles at fountains throughout the park, but it’s nice to have drinks on hand while waiting in line.

With all of these snacks packed, you’re already ahead of the game because you won’t need to fork out for expensive snacks and meals inside the park. Packing your own food also means more time to focus on the fun stuff and less time standing in long food lines.

Plus, packing food means you can be strategic about your meals and snacks. No need to deal with overpriced, low-quality options when you have fresh, easy food ready to go.

2. Hotel Breakfast Hack: Instant Oatmeal to the Rescue

A lot of the hotels around Disneyland don’t offer free breakfast, and the ones that do usually charge a premium for it. But here’s a hack that saves us both time and money: instant oatmeal! We bring along a few packets of oatmeal and use the hotel’s coffee maker to get hot water for our breakfast.

It’s super easy to make, and it only takes a few minutes. We usually pair it with some fresh fruit or granola bars for a complete breakfast. Here are a few other ideas you could bring if oatmeal’s not your thing:

• Instant Oatmeal: Buy a variety pack so everyone can pick their favorite flavor.

• Breakfast Bars: These are great if you’re in a rush or want something that’s easy to take with you as you head out the door.

• Cereal Cups: You can find these single-serve cups of cereal that only need a bit of milk or yogurt.

This quick breakfast hack lets you skip the overpriced hotel breakfast and get out the door faster to enjoy the park.

3. Hit Up the Disney Outlet Store at the Citadel

If you have the opportunity, don’t forget to stop by the Disney Outlet Store at the Citadel before you check into your hotel or head to the park. It’s located just a little bit out of the way, but totally worth the stop. You can find discounted Disney-themed clothing, toys, and other memorabilia. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs for the kids before you even hit the park, and the prices are way better than anything inside Disneyland.

Sometimes we find shirts, hats, or even cute plush toys for the kids, and they’re a fraction of the cost. It's the perfect way to grab those fun Disney trinkets without spending a small fortune.

4. Treat Yourself Without Breaking the Bank

After all that saving, we like to treat ourselves to a special meal. Lamplight Lounge is always a family favorite for dinner – the food is delicious and the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing after a long day at the park. If we’re in the mood for drinks, we’ll stop by the Sonoma Terrace or, more recently, the Paloma at Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill in the new San Francisco area of California Adventure. These spots offer a nice, laid-back vibe with great views, and it’s the perfect place to wind down.

5. A Budget-Friendly Snack Option: Hotlink Corn Dog

For a super affordable and tasty treat, we recommend the Hotlink Corn Dog at Corn Dog Castle in California Adventure. It’s one of the best deals for a satisfying snack that still feels like a Disney indulgence. It's crispy, savory, and perfect when you're in need of a quick bite without spending a ton.

With these tips, you can enjoy all that Disneyland has to offer while keeping your budget in check!