Yummy Mummy Iris asks:
How much money does my family need to go on a Walt Disney World vacation?
Dear Iris,
There are a few key things to take into account when pricing a Disney vacation. The following prices are the cheapest non-discounted rates you can get at Walt Disney World. Everything can be upgraded from there including resort category, room location, park tickets and meals. You can also apply savings to these prices as discounts are available throughout the year at slower periods and so far for 2011 many specials are being offered even during traditionally busy times.
All prices are based on a family of 4, 2 adults and 2 children between 3-9 years staying in a Disney owned value resort with park tickets.
Why price for Disney owned property only? The reason is that Disney resort guests are privy to certain perks, exceptional service and outstanding quality!
You can stay at a Disney value resort during their “value” season from $82 USD per night (plus tax, weekend rates apply) in a standard room. Value season in 2011 is Jan.3-6&10-14, Jan.18-Feb.11, Aug.15-Sept.30 and Nov.28-Dec.16.
Park ticket prices are based on “the longer you stay, the less you pay”. Price of a one-day base (one park, one day) ticket for an adult is $87.33 USD including tax and $78.81 for a child (3-9). But, a 7-day base ticket will cost an adult $37.58 per day for a total of $263.06 and a child $34.08 per day for a total of $238.56.
The Basic Dining Plan will save you up to 30% off meals at WDW and includes one table service meal (most character meals are included in this), one counter service meal and one snack per day, per person. The price of the plan for 2011 during non-peak times is $45.99 per adult and $11.99 per child (3-9) per night. Airport Transport is free if you stay on a Disney owned property.
You can either fly or drive to WDW depending on your budget and where you live. This price can vary greatly, so I did not include it in the final price below.
Total cost of a non-discounted rate for 7 nights at a WDW value resort during value season including a 7-day base ticket for a family of 4 in 2011 = $1702.76 USD taxes included. You can always apply an offered discount or upgrade from this starting price!
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