If you've often thought Disney is out of the ballpark when it comes to
your budget, there may be some ways to cut just enough corners to make
it happen this year. For Melanie Swoap, this is where her love of Disney
all started. She worked there, and now works to help others afford the
magic.



"A lot of people think it's out of the realm to go to Disney and it's not," says Swoap.



One way Swoap helps people cut costs through her company Blue Sky
Journeys is by dropping the park hopper Pass if you're going to be there
more than a few days. Most people could jsut as easily designate each
day at one park and pocket the money.



"When you're looking at a 5-day ticket, it's usually around $239 total.
Not per day, but total, to add that park hopper," says Swoap. "So that's
a significant savings to most people because you can spend that on
merchandise or food or something else."



Swoap, whose company is a Disney designated travel agency, also knows
the cheapest times to visit and when the park is running specials.
January, February, August are the months you'll often get deep discounts
on rooms, even food.



"Historically we've had the luxury of the free dining offer," says
Swoap. "For families to know they can go book their resort book their
tickets and eat for free is wonderful."



If you don't time it right to take advantage of the free dining
promotion, there are other ways to save on food. Disney does allow you
to bring in soft coolers. Load it up with sandwiches, snacks and
refillable water bottles. If you plan to eat on property, the Disney
dining plans can save you 10%-30% too. It's worth your money to pick up a
Disney Savings Book. Full of money-saving tips. One thing we learned:
bring your own stroller instead of paying dollars a day to rent one from
Disney that doesn't recline and has very little storage. Also, shop for
souvenirs off property. The nearest Walmart there has a huge Disney
section for half the cost.Disney