Florida Family Vacation for $800, Including Disney

During these harsh economic times it seems that one of the things falling by the wayside is the family vacation. And when you research affordable alternatives, what you usually find are articles on camping and stay-cations. Now, what if your family wants something beyond that? Here, I hope to give you a few ideas so that you and your loved ones can enjoy some much deserved R&R and not break the bank. My example will be for a 5 night 6 day stay during July 2010 since most families travel when their children are on school break and it's simply best to plan ahead and be able to save the money to make your vacation a reality.

Mommy can we visit Mickey?

Most parents initial reaction to a Disney vacation when they are strapped for cash is uh uh, sorry, no can do. But wait, where there is a will there is a way. And compromise is the name of the game here people. Just remember now, that doesn't mean you won't have a great time making lasting memories.

Okay, so maybe you can't stay on Disney property and buy a 5 day park pass, which incidentally at the time of this writing costs $1936.30, and that would be in a value resort. Wow, now that's a pretty penny. And air? From the east coast it will run you about $950 for 4 people. That is a total of $2886.30.

And what can be done to get a similar vacation on a budget? Remember that word I used above? Compromise.

Driving over air travel is key to keeping to a budget. If you own (or can borrow) a reliable car it will run you roughly $200 in gas round trip from most places in the north east. If you want to see how much gas would run you from your area, simply look up the directions on mapquest.com and use their gas calculator option.

Staying off property is another key element in your budget vacation. Kissimmee, FL, offers thousands of hotels and motels at ridiculous bargains when compared to staying on Disney property. I like gtahotels.com, the bidding feature on priceline.com and hotwire.com. Hotwire, I believe is ideal for a family. You can specify how many people and you are guaranteed bedding for that amount, unlike Priceline, in which you are merely guaranteed bedding for 2. And although you won't know the name of the hotel you chose until after you pay, you will see the star rating and get to see what amenities are being offered as well as choose what area you want to stay in. A 3 star hotel in the Disney area is at $32 a night, so for 5 nights, including fees, you would be in the $200 range. Some of the amenities are pool, fitness center and laundry, nothing to sneeze at.

Ticket prices are by far THE most expensive thing in a Disney vacation. But, they don't have to be if you are willing to what? That's right, compromise. Disney is NOT the only family friendly and inviting theme park in Florida, not by a long shot. But if you simply must visit the Mouse, a little sweat equity can get you in for free.

Currently a one day pass to Disney for an adult is $79 and for a child it is $68. However, starting January of next year, you can sign up at Disney.com for their "Give a Day Get a Day" program. You and anyone in your household over 6 years of age can sign up through the Disney site and choose a participating volunteer program. Once you complete a day of service for that program in your area, you will each receive a FREE one day pass to Disney World. That will save you $294 for a family of 4.

Running total so far for transportation, hotel and one day at Disney is $400

And check out the competition to get the best bang for your theme park buck, www.universalorlando.com. The price here is a lot more budget friendly and you still get the most wonderful experience. Jurassic Park, Dr. Seuss land, Shows, roller coasters and much more, basically you name it, Universal has it. And all for the bargain basement price of 99.99 each for unlimited access to both of their amazing parks, Universal and Island of Adventure.

Transportation: $200

Hotel: $200

One day at Disney: FREE

5 Days at Universal and Islands of Adventure $400

Grand Total $800

A savings of $2086.30, not too shabby eh?

So maybe it isn't the magical, money is no object week you envisioned for your Disney vacation. But it does beat not going at all. And for $800 you will be able to get away with your family and decompress, visit Mickey, stay at a 3-star hotel and be able to "ride the movies" at universal, not bad at all.

Happy Vacation!