Los Angeles is an undeniable international creativity, entertainment, and innovation hub. Known for its sprawling footprint, the city offers a unique blend of glamor, culture, and cutting-edge industry, attracting millions of visitors and new residents each year.
From the iconic Hollywood sign to the bustling streets of Downtown LA, the city is a hotspot for artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on one of its world-famous beaches or moving to the City of Angels to pursue your loftiest dreams, Los Angeles promises an unforgettable experience. Let’s dive into ten specific things that make Los Angeles a city like no other.
1. Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is not just the landmark of one of LA’s most iconic neighborhoods; it’s a symbol of dreams, ambition, and the global entertainment industry. Perched on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills, this iconic sign originally advertised a local real estate development in 1923. Today, it’s a must-see for tourists and a constant reminder of the city’s pivotal role in film and television. The sign’s towering letters have watched over countless film productions and continue to inspire those who come to Los Angeles hoping to make a mark in the entertainment world.
2. Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the cosmos. Situated on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, this observatory is as much a gateway to the stars as it is a stunning vantage point for viewing the city’s expansive landscape. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits about space and science, watch live shows in the planetarium, and peer through telescopes to gaze at the celestial wonders.
3. Venice Beach
Venice Beach is renowned for its eclectic boardwalk, talented street performers, and picturesque canals that mirror its Italian namesake. This beachfront neighborhood captures the essence of California’s free spirit with its skate parks, mural-covered buildings, and boutique shops. Whether you’re watching the skilled skateboarders, shopping for unique souvenirs, or simply enjoying the sun, sand, and surf, Venice Beach provides an unforgettable slice of Los Angeles’ laid-back lifestyle.
4. The Getty Center
The Getty Center stands out as a monumental testament to art, architecture, and stunning gardens. Sitting atop the Santa Monica Mountains, it has panoramic views of Los Angeles and houses an impressive collection of artworks spanning centuries. From European paintings to modern sculptures, the Getty’s exhibits are as diverse as the city itself.
5. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or LACMA, is the largest art museum in the western United States, showcasing an extensive collection that spans geographical boundaries and historical periods. From ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, LACMA offers something for every type of art enthusiast. The museum is also home to Chris Burden’s “Urban Light,” a captivating installation of restored street lamps that has become an iconic photo spot for visitors and locals alike.
6. Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a thrilling blend of an amusement park and a working movie studio, providing visitors with an immersive entertainment experience. Here, you can explore the wizarding world of Harry Potter, face off against dinosaurs in Jurassic Park, or take a behind-the-scenes tour of real film sets. It’s a unique opportunity to dive into the magic of movie-making and enjoy rides and shows based on popular films and TV shows.
7. Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame stretches along Hollywood Boulevard, paying tribute to stars from the entertainment industry. With over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks, it honors actors, musicians, directors, producers, and fictional characters. Tourists flock here to find the stars of their favorite celebrities and capture a piece of Hollywood history. The Walk of Fame is a testament to the city’s enduring impact on entertainment.
8. Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is a classic symbol of California’s beach culture, with amusement park attractions, family-friendly restaurants, and stunning ocean views. The pier’s Ferris wheel and roller coaster add a nostalgic charm to the seaside setting. It’s a popular spot for fishing and, at night, the lit-up Ferris wheel creates a magical backdrop against the Pacific Ocean.
9. The Broad
The Broad is a contemporary art museum in Downtown Los Angeles, known for its innovative architecture and extensive collection of post-war and modern art. Founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, the museum houses over 2,000 works of art, including pieces by Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Roy Lichtenstein. Admission is free, making it an accessible destination for artsy types and casual visitors alike.
10. Dodger Stadium
Dodger Stadium is the historic home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and so much more than just a ballpark. Located in the Elysian Park neighborhood, it offers stunning views of the downtown skyline and the San Gabriel Mountains. Attending a game here is a quintessential LA experience, complete with sunny skies, cheering fans, and the chance to catch a fly ball. Beyond baseball, Dodger Stadium hosts concerts and events, making it a versatile venue in the heart of Los Angeles.
Whether you’re dreaming of beaches in the Caribbean or roaming the streets of Paris, one thing’s for sure: Traveling is expensive. Factor in the cost of flights, food, and lodging, and it’s no wonder some people feel like traveling is reserved only for the rich and famous.
The good news? Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank. Saving enough money for your next holiday is totally doable, and it all starts with proper budgeting for travel. With a defined vacation budget and some planning, you could request time off for travel sooner than you think. Here’s how to do it.
How to build a travel fund
Before you start booking plane tickets and buying museum tickets, you’ll need to determine what’s realistic for your current financial state, according to Athena Valentine Lent, author and founder of Money Smart Latina. If this is your first time budgeting for travel, Lent says these three steps can help you get started:
1. Set a savings goal for your trip
Budgeting for travelstarts with identifying where you want to go and calculating the total amount of money you’ll need to cover that trip.
“Decide where you’d like to go, and start from there,” Lent says. “Research the best times to visit your travel destinations, so you can take advantage of any off-peak seasons. If you’re unable to visit during that time, consider another place.”
In addition to researching prices of big-ticket items like airplane tickets, Lent recommends researching all potential expenses to paint an accurate picture of your total cost. “Look into how much you’ll pay for lodging, food, transportation to get there—plus transportation while there—and any other exhibits or bucket items you want to check off while you’re there,” she says.
Vacations can and should include plenty of spontaneity, so Lent recommends giving yourself some extra wiggle room in your travel fund to cover other possible expenses (think: last-minute excursions and souvenirs). As you continue to plan, creating a financial vision board can help you visualize your dream vacation and keep you motivated during your savings journey.
2. Turn one big goal into multiple smaller goals
Once you’ve established how much your trip will cost, determine the amount you need to save on a monthly, bi-weekly, or weekly cadence until you can fully fund your goal, Lent says. For example, if you’ve figured out that you need $1,000 for a trip coming up in five months, you’d want to save $200 a month. Or if you wanted to break it up into even smaller chunks, you could have a savings goal of $50 a week.
Breaking your goal into smaller steps makes it appear more manageable, Lent says. Saving $200 a month feels much more attainable than trying to put away $1,000 all at once. Psychologically, splitting up a large goal into multiple smaller ones gives you a sense of accomplishment every time you cross one of your funding milestones.
3. Keep your travel fund in a separate savings account
There are ways to make your money work harder for you. With a high-yield savings account, you’ll earn a specific percentage of interest on your money, known as an annual percentage yield (APY). That interest is compounded, too, so you’ll grow your savings even faster.
Keeping your travel fund in a separate savings account is another helpful strategy. It can streamline your efforts, making it easier to track progress and know exactly when you’ve reached your goal.
“I love me a high-yield savings account,” Lent says. “The ability to put cash aside into a different account labeled with a goal motivates me to call it ‘my precious’ and protect it. I’m also a firm believer in making your money work for you.”
Tips for keeping your travel fund on track
Making a plan and budgeting for travel is a critical first step, but if you want to make your dream vacation a reality, you’ll need to stay on track. To keep your momentum going, consider these four tips for how to save money for travel:
1. Curb your spending habits
Looking for some low-hanging fruit? Lent says to try reducing nonessential spending first. While that might mean spending less money on things like dining out or new clothes, it doesn’t mean you need to live like a hermit to achieve your financial goal.
“Cutting back on your discretionary spending can seem brutal when all you want to do is live your current lifestyle,” says Lent. “My advice is to cut spending in small amounts at first and then look for cheaper ways to do the things you want to do. As you begin to cut back while still doing the things you love, you won’t be depriving yourself, which makes it easier to stick to your budget.”
2. Take advantage of freebies and discounts
Just because you’re budgeting for travel doesn’t mean you have to give up on fun entirely. These days you can find coupons or discount codes for almost any activity, from festivals and sporting events to restaurants and bars. “For example, if you want to go to a concert, look for it on a group coupon site,” says Lent. “Plan on drinking with friends? Ask your friends to check out a happy hour with you.”
There are also plenty of ways to have fun without spending money. Look no further than your local community for meetup groups, free museum or zoo days, or music nights hosted by your city or town. Depending on where you live, getting out into nature is often free, and many national parks even offer free entry on certain days. Entertaining yourself doesn’t have to be expensive – finding no-cost alternatives will enable you to put even more money away in your travel fund.
3. Hack your way to savings with a cashback credit or debit card
Another way to make your travel dreams come true is to use credit card rewards in a process known as “travel hacking,” Lent says. Some credit card providers will give you points or cash back on a percentage of the money you spend overall or in certain categories like food, travel, or gas. If you want to use these credit card rewards for travel, however, Lent recommends paying off your credit card debt each billing cycle.
Some banks also offer cash back when you spend with your debit card. For example, with Discover® Cashback Debit, you can earn 1% cash back on your debit card purchases1 and put that extra cash toward building up your travel fund.
Earn cash back with your debit card
Discover Bank, Member FDIC
4. Consider a side hustle
If you feel like you’re not making as much headway as you’d like on your travel fund, you might want to explore some side hustle ideas to earn extra income. Side hustles can range from freelance projects on the weekend to driving for a ride-sharing company.
Pursuing a side hustle isn’t for everyone, but if you have the time and ability to take on additional work, Lent says, you can use the extra cash to fund your travels without dipping too much into your primary source of income.
Your next vacation is one travel fund away
Planning a vacation can be intimidating, especially once you start calculating how much everything will cost. But just like any financial goal, saving money for travel is doable if you have a clearly defined budget and stick to your plan.
Take Lent’s advice: If you want to know how to save money for traveling, determine where you want to go, research how much it’ll cost, and break your savings goal into manageable chunks. You’ll be jet-setting off to your next adventure in no time.
If you’re ready to build your travel fund and make your vacation dreams a reality, check out the features of a Discover Online Savings Account to see how it can keep your travel savings safe and growing over time.
Articles may contain information from third parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third party or information.
1 ATM transactions, the purchase of money orders or other cash equivalents, cash over portions of point-of-sale transactions, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) payments (such as Apple Pay Cash), online sports betting and internet gambling transactions, and loan payments or account funding made with your debit card are not eligible for cash back rewards. In addition, purchases made using third-party payment accounts (services such as Venmo® and PayPal®, who also provide P2P payments) may not be eligible for cash back rewards. Apple Pay® is a trademark of Apple Inc. Venmo and PayPal are registered trademarks of PayPal, Inc. Samsung Pay is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Google, Google Pay, and Android are trademarks of Google LLC.
Creams, beiges, and taupes, often overlooked in favor of more vibrant colors, are again making a resurgence in the world of home decor. These neutral shades bring a sense of calmness, warmth, and versatility to living spaces. Whether you’re designing your new house in San Marcos, CA, or Oklahoma City, this is a good style because it effortlessly complements the serene and diverse landscapes of both regions, providing a timeless backdrop for your home that harmonizes with the natural beauty of coastal California or the heartland of Oklahoma.
This Redfin article explores the renewed popularity of these understated hues, offering insights from interior design experts on how to use them effectively in your home. From creating texture to incorporating pops of color and adding personal touches, discover the secrets to making these neutral tones the foundation of your stylish and inviting living spaces.
1. Beige decor isn’t boring
“Beige does not have to mean boring,” says Stegall Studios. “Using neutral tones like taupe, cream and beige can create an immediate sense of calmness and tranquility. The key to getting it right and making it interesting is incorporating different textures and patterns into this color palette.
The creamy colored room below was in need of a boost, so we added a 3-dimensional porcelain tile to the fireplace. We kept it in the same creamy, taupe color palette but the textural change of the tile and the subtle pattern added immediate warmth and character and completely changed the feeling in the space.”
Courtesy of Stegall Studios
2. The palette is highly versatile, inviting personalization
“In today’s fast-paced world, people are seeking spaces that promote relaxation and well-being. These colors create a serene and calming atmosphere, which is highly desirable in modern living,” suggests Acacia + Spruce.
“Creams, beiges, and taupes serve as a versatile backdrop, allowing homeowners to easily incorporate various decor styles and color accents, making it adaptable to changing preferences. Despite their neutrality, these hues can be personalized with textures, patterns, and pops of color, giving homeowners the freedom to express their individuality while maintaining a cohesive look.”
3. Incorporate texture into the mix
“My best design tip is to incorporate layered textures into a neutral home design,” recommends Beach Nest Interiors. “This prevents the space from feeling flat and creates interest. Varying tones of beiges, tans, and creams gives a warm, relaxing energy and creates a perfect backdrop for thoughtful pops of color in wall art, lamps, and pillows. Adding in natural organic elements like wood, plants, and stone will really take this design to the next level.
Bonus tip: use the ceiling to infuse warmth and a bit of drama into your space. Have tall ceilings? Paint them a darker tone than the walls or add wood beams or textured wallpaper.”
Courtesy of Beach Nest Interiors
4. Be purposeful when laying colors, patterns, and texture
K.C. Customs, Inc. recommends that “When working with this color palette, we recommend you pay meticulous attention to texture, layering plush fabrics, rich woods, and subtle patterns to achieve depth and visual interest. Thoughtful lighting plays a crucial role in accentuating the inviting ambiance of these hues. These colors not only stand the test of time but also adapt seamlessly to diverse design styles, making them a versatile choice for every homeowner’s vision.”
Courtesy of K.C. Customs, Inc.
5. Warm colors are in
“Designing homes with creams, beiges, and taupes is a design trend that is gaining fast traction as grays slowly fade,” shares Brandie Crain Interior Design. “Whereas grays can leave a space feeling cold if left to their own devices, softer forms of brown bring warmth to a room and feel classic, but still fresh. Wood tones and natural, woven accents pair well with these colors—combined, they create a sense of warmth and comfort. The palette can be styled with black or gold accents to give it a more modern touch or whites and medium to dark grays to give it a more old-world feel with deeper contrast.
These colors can be used on walls, but I like to paint walls and trim the same warm white and use taupes and darker beiges on anchoring pieces like couches and cabinetry and lighter beiges and creams for accessories, but avoid dark browns and beiges and creams with too much yellow, which tend to look outdated.”
Courtesy of Brandie Crain Interior Design
6. Millennial gray is out
“Recently, the resurgence of creamy tones is replacing the bright white, high contrast trend that ruled nearly every sector of home design for many years,” notes Courtney Brown. “A natural, creamy color palette subtly softens your home with lived-in warmth and a calming atmosphere.
The key to pulling off this tone-on-tone design? Layering. Through layering a variety of textures, neutral accents and organic materials, a palette of creams, beiges, and taupes is both timeless and fresh. When used as your home’s foundation, it creates a seamless flow from one space to the next, allowing an elevated and elegant bedroom and a relaxed, cozy living room to organically co-exist.”
7. Use natural, dark pops of color like wood
“The warm natural palette has become a trend because it’s really fool proof,” insists AESTHETIK Design by Victoria Tik. “I love adding dark pops for contrast and using white oaks when it comes to woods and or flooring to really bring the look home. This look stands out because it’s timeless and so adaptable, you can go from ultra modern to victorian or bohemian using this same palette.
To keep this look unique style, folks should feel free to incorporate their own personal touches with souvenirs from their travels or little pops of dark to balance things out. Have fun with it, don’t take design too seriously or it won’t be fun. And at the end of the day, we all just want to create a beautiful space that’s truly livable.”
Courtesy of AESTHETIK Design by Victoria Tik
8. Add pops of color with plants and accessories
“Use different shades of the same color to create depth and interest,” suggests Youth Design Philly. “Add plants and flowers to add life and color to the space. Add pops of color through natural materials like wood, stone, and leather to add warmth and texture. Take advantage of natural light whenever possible. Keep the furniture simple and uncluttered. Add a personal touch and fun to the space with accessories, artwork, or plants.”
Courtesy of Youth Design Philly
9. Make models before committing to a design
“Make sure when looking at finishes you know where it’s going,” recommends JL Interiors. “Lighting in a space is very important to create harmonious design. If you have a wall tile and a floor tile, look at them in different spaces. Make sure your wall tile is perfectly leaned upwards on a wall, and your floor tile is laid flat on the ground, so you know what they will look like in the end.
Paint is extremely important, make sure to not pick only one color from a color deck. Paint up multiple samples on the wall where the wall doesn’t get light, then you will understand which sample works best with your design.”
Courtesy of JL Interiors
10. Mixing elements creates visual impact
“The incorporation of woven baskets and handcrafted ceramics can add interest and texture to the neutral palette,” suggests Studio Squire. “Additionally, the inclusion of plants such as succulents and air plants can effectively connect the room to nature while imparting a sense of warmth and comfort. Incorporating plants into a neutral design can elevate its visual impact to its fullest potential.
The infusion of mixed metals, such as brass and oil-rubbed bronze, can further enhance the palette by imbuing it with a sense of warmth and grounding, thereby elevating its overall aesthetic appeal. The strategic use of black and dark, warm grays can lend a touch of sophistication to the neutral palette.”
Courtesy of Studio Squire
11. Neutral home decor is a timeless classic
“A successful interior is like a well-dressed person. They know well that creams, beiges, and taupes are timeless classics,” shares School of Sketching by Olga Sorokina. “They’re unlikely to combine a striped jacket with a checkered shirt, and if they do, they’ll do it tastefully, because knowing the rules allows you to break them.”
Returning home with a suitcase full of souvenirs can be one of the highlights of a trip. You might travel specifically to buy clothes, such as some folks who head to Hoi An, Vietnam, which is known for its tailor-made clothing. Or you might come from Japan with a case of Kit Kats in bold flavors like red bean and Japanese sweet potato, plus other unique gifts for the folks back home.
Some travelers might have to limit the momentos they buy because of financial constraints. But others are bound simply by what fits in the suitcase for the flight home.
With these three packing tips, you’ll not just avoid overpacking, but you’ll make room for souvenirs, too.
1. Don’t pack items you’d want a souvenir version of
You may have seen the somewhat cliche lists of things you likely never need to pack, like toiletries, towels or hair dryers (most hotels provide these things for you). But what about the items you do need — the ones that are perfectly logical to pack, like shirts, sunglasses and hats?
If you’re the kind of person who’s likely to buy souvenir versions of these items, then rethink how many of them you bring with you to begin with. If you pack one or two fewer shirts, for example, you can buy a couple at your destination, wear them while traveling, and bring them home as souvenirs.
2. Rent clothes upon arrival
A new service has popped up in the travel industry, offering to deliver personally styled rental clothes to your hotel. Travelers wear these temporary duds throughout the trip and leave them behind at the hotel upon checkout.
Trvl Porter lets you pick items to rent at $65 each (with a two-item minimum) for up to two weeks and takes care of the shipping costs both ways.
Some major hotel and airline companies are getting in on the trend too.
In July 2023, Japan Airlines launched its “Any Wear, Anywhere” clothing-sharing service. Customers go online and input criteria like size, style and how many items they want (the minimum is three tops plus two bottoms per rental), which generates a bundle of clothes for them to rent.
And it’s not too expensive either. The lowest-priced bundle costs 4,000 yen (about $27). For now, though, the service is only available to passengers on international, JAL-operated flights and is just a trial project, scheduled to end in August 2024, according to Japan Airlines.
Meanwhile, W Hotels Worldwide, a Marriott brand, has a partnership with Rent the Runway where clothing orders are delivered to travelers at the hotel (and returned to the hotel’s front desk at checkout). This service lets customers pick any four items from a selection of Rent the Runway clothing for $69. Separately, Rent the Runway also offers one-time rentals that might be ideal if you’re looking for something you’d wear only once during the trip (like a suit or formal gown), which would allow you to pack less.
3. Pack old clothes you want to part with
Bring apparel that you were about to donate or throw away anyway. Make your vacation the last time you wear it — and then leave anything too tattered to wear again in the trash. For clothes that are otherwise in good condition (perhaps you’re ready to part with them because you want a closet refresh), look for local thrift stores to drop off donations. Local places of worship might also take quality second-hand clothing donations.
Why you should avoid overpacking
A heavy suitcase can be cumbersome to lug around, particularly if you’re trying to roll it over cobblestone streets in Europe or sprint with it to catch a departing train.
Bringing more than what fits in carry-on means you’ll likely pay airline checked bag fees (though that’s avoidable with certain levels of airline elite status or by holding certain airline credit cards).
If you do check bags, you’ll spend precious vacation time waiting at the baggage carousel. And there’s still the risk that your stuff will get lost. Even protections like lost luggage insurance, which can refund the cost of what went missing, can feel like a poor consolation prize if you lose irreplaceable items like a camera (and the memory card or film inside), or tough-to-get items like the Japanese Kit Kats you flew across the ocean to collect.
By returning with very few of the same items you departed home with, you’ll not only leave plenty of room for souvenirs, but you also might be able to make it all the way home with carry-on bags only.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Setting up a bachelor pad often means preparing for the good, bad and ugly—weekend catch-ups, curated dinners and well, (even) unplanned visits. Having a space you can call your own is a blessing, more so if you’ve just begun adulting. While livening it up is often perceived as an investment that demands one to shell out big bucks, the key is to find creative ways and pay attention to detail. “While furniture is the foundation of a bachelor pad, it’s these finer details in decor that truly enhance the living experience and elevate a bachelor pad from simply being a space to live in, to a place that feels like a thoughtfully curated home,” opines Manjul Jayakumar, co-founder, Cananor Guild, a handcrafted luxury home decor brand, adding, “Beyond the usual furniture, your choice of bed linens, napkins, and table linen can make a marked difference in the ambiance. Good quality napkins, especially for the bar, are invaluable. They serve a functional purpose and add an air of sophistication during cocktail nights. As for those spontaneous nights when friends decide to stay over, having a few extra bath towels or at the very least having sets of hand and face towels is essential. This touch ensures that overnight guests feel comfortable.”
Hues To Choose
While the color palette may be minimal, young decorators are introducing textural interest through their choice of fabrics. Linens with different weaves, patterns, and finishes are favoured for their ability to add depth and character to the decor without overwhelming the space. “Youngsters are opting for neutral and monochromatic colour schemes in their home decor. Shades of white, beige, grey, and muted pastels dominate the scene. These colours not only create a serene atmosphere but also allow for easy mixing and matching of linens and cushions,” avers Aradhana Dalmia, founder of The Artemist, a new-age art consultancy.
A bachelor’s pad is a canvas for self-expression, where art and decor can merge to create something young and fun. “One can definitely play with some quirky sculptures, funky wallpapers and colour blocking. Bachelors would also love to have an area dedicated to entertainment which can be done up with some very cool and affordable artworks, such as our ‘deck of cards’ or ‘vintage chronicle’ series,” she says.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Balance style and functionality: One of the most prevalent mistakes among youngsters is favouring style at the expense of functionality. While aesthetics are undoubtedly crucial, remember that your bachelor pad should also serve as a practical living space. Prioritize furniture and decor that not only looks good but also fulfills a purpose.
Interiors and soft furnishings: “It’s common for individuals to underestimate the profound impact that linens and soft furnishings can have on their living spaces,” notes Jayakumar, adding, “These items are often seen as mere accessories, but they play an essential role in elevating the overall look and feel of your home. The right choice of linens and cushions can introduce texture, color, and warmth, thereby breathing life into an otherwise sterile environment.”
Embrace personalisation: Your home should be a reflection of your unique personality and interests. A frequent misstep in decorating is relying on generic, mass-produced items that lack character. Infuse your bachelor pad with your personal touch by incorporating unique artwork, souvenirs from your travels, or engaging in DIY projects. These elements will imbue your living space with a sense of authenticity, making it truly yours.
Latest Trends In Home Décor For Millennial Home Owners
As quality gathers weightage over quantity, sustainability over excess and personal expression within the boundaries of simplicity; multi-functional pieces like bed linens with storage pockets or table linens with spill-resistant coatings, are highly sought after today.
The demand for contemporary artworks, quirky sculptures, 3-D art or multi-functional installations is on the rise. However, it’s important to understand that your space should not only be Pinterest-worthy or café-like, but also functional and enjoyable for everyday living.
“Your chosen decor, whether an installation, sculpture or painting should never become an eyesore,” concludes Dalmia, with a fail-safe advice: let your space reflect your individuality, but ensure it suits your pocket and stands the test of time.
Carry-ons, rolling luggage, trunks and duffels. There are a plethora of baggage options to choose from before you jet off on your next flight. But can you check boxes on a plane?
There are plenty of reasons you might wish to do so. Perhaps you’re moving across the country, bringing a care package of snacks to a friend or you bought more souvenirs than you expected.
Whatever the reason, the question is valid. Can boxes be checked luggage? Here’s what you need to know.
Can I check a box as luggage?
Can you check a cardboard box on a plane in lieu of a more traditional suitcase? Generally, the answer is yes.
As long as it’s sturdy enough to make it through the rough-and-tumble screening and transportation process, follows airline size restrictions and doesn’t contain any prohibited substances, most airlines don’t have a problem with passengers checking boxes as luggage.
Do all airlines accept boxes as checked luggage?
First, you must determine what the right cardboard box size for an international flight or domestic flight should be.
To do so, check with your airline. Size and weight restrictions vary, though the same rules for more traditional checked baggage apply.
If in doubt, contact your airline and simply ask, “Can I check boxes as luggage?” The airline will likely be more than happy to help you out. Just ensure you’re within its size and weight limits.
Here are some guidelines for several airlines.
Southwest: Passengers are always welcome to check two bags for free on Southwest flights. And that includes boxes. Each one should weigh 50 pounds or less and all measurements combined (Length + Width + Height) should total 62 inches or less.
American Airlines: How many bags or boxes you can check as luggage depends on the class of service and your destination. But a combined measurement of 62 inches and 50 pounds is the maximum for most flights. For travel to and from Mexico, boxes can be a bit larger: up to 80 linear inches, but there are seasonal limitations for checking boxes for destinations with luggage restrictions, so check before you pack.
United: Your MileagePlus status and cabin determine your bag or box allowance. But economy includes a 50-pound max while elite members, first and business class get 70 pounds. All can be max 30 inches x 20 inches x 12 inches. Boxes on flights to Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean can only be a combined 42 inches.
Delta: Similar to other airlines, bags and boxes you plan to check should have a combined measurement of no more than 62 inches and weigh 50 pounds or less. Boxes specifically are not permitted on flights to and from Brazil, Mexico and Chile. And they are only permitted to Central or South America if they are in original packaging in a factory-sealed box.
Content restrictions
Can boxes be checked luggage? Sure, but what’s in them still matters.
No matter what you’re checking as baggage, the rules for prohibited items still apply. Here are some common items you can’t check in boxes or luggage according to TSA:
Items that cannot be checked
Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof.
Bear spray.
CO2 cartridges and oxygen cylinders.
Explosives.
Electronic cigarettes.
Compressed gas or other fuels.
Fireworks.
Lithium ion batteries with more than 100 watt hours.
Power banks.
Spray paint.
Additionally, airlines sometimes have different rules and packing requirements for those traveling with firearms and ammunition, so ask your airline before you pack to find out how best to check those items.
Tips for packing a box as luggage
While your can generally check a box as luggage, you’ll want to pack smart. After all, a box can be more easily crushed, torn or damaged than a hardsided or even softsided suitcase, so you’ll want to make sure the contents are protected.
First, choose a sturdy, heavy-duty box that fits within your airline’s size restrictions. If all you have seems a bit flimsy, line the sides with additional cardboard to reinforce the box.
Then, carefully pack the contents, keeping weight requirements in mind. Use plenty of padding materials if any items are fragile.
Then, when it’s time to seal up the box, tape it well, including on all the seams and corners. You may want to add more than one layer of packing tape, just to be safe.
You may be tempted to wrap your box in plastic wrap, but check with your airline before you do to ensure your arrival and departure destinations don’t have restrictions regarding plastic film.
Finally, it wouldn’t hurt to put an extra roll of tape in your carry-on just in case you have to open your box back up at the airport for a safety check.
Checking boxes on planes recapped
Can you check a box as luggage? On most airlines and to most destinations, the answer is yes.
Just keep airline size and weight restrictions in mind, make sure to leave out restricted items and pack your box carefully so it arrives at your destination in one piece.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Inside: Looking for the best care packages for college students? Look no further! This guide will teach you everything you need to know about choosing the right gifts and packing a care package that will make your student feel at home during their time away.
It’s that time of year again! Time to send your college student a care package. But what should you include?
We’ve got you covered with this comprehensive list of the best care packages for college students.
From food and snacks to study aids and dorm decor, we’ve got ideas for every type of student.
This year, I seem to know so many parents sending off their college students.
So whether your child is homesick or just needs a little pick-me-up, check out our list of the best care packages for college students.
What is a Care Package?
A care package is a heartfelt bundle filled with handpicked items, designed to uplift the spirits of the recipient.
A care package for a college student is a curated box filled with various items such as food, products, or novelty items, tailored to their interests, to remind them they’re loved and provide them with needed or desired items while they’re away from home.
Nonetheless, a care package can be a wonderful surprise!
What goes in a care package for a college student?
Who says that college life has to be tough?
Show your college-bound kid you’re thinking of them with an amazing care package! Here’s how:
Pamper them with toiletries like soap, body scrub, or dry shampoo. It’s practicality meeting indulgence.
Include favorite snacks like popcorn, pretzels, candies, chips, or nuts—because nothing beats study stress like mouthfuls of favorite munchies!
Throw in souvenirs from your hometown because nostalgia is a comfort blanket away from home.
Don’t forget a gift card or two. It’s the little ticket to a happy spree when the budget runs low.
And finally, a heartfelt, handwritten note to remind them they’re loved, even from miles away.
In every box, you’re not just bringing joy to your college kid, you’re sending them love and comfort!
Why Send A Care Package To A College Student?
1. A Gift of Sustenance and Comfort 2. A Way to Express Love and Support 3. A Means to Introduce New Things 4. A Way to Help College Students Cope with Stress 5. A Resource for Essential Kitchen Items 6. A Means to Stay Connected 7. A Way to Provide a Mood Booster 8. A Tool to Help College Students Transition into Life Indoors 9. A Way to Give Money 10. A Gift That Can Help College Students Get Ahead
What are some care package ideas?
Care packages are personalized boxes filled with essentials, comforting items, or little luxuries that can offer solace, promote self-care, or give a delightful surprise.
Here are some ideas to get the creative juices flowing!
Imagine delivering a box packed with their favorite homemade goodies, essential school supplies, novel books, or even a themed package for that upcoming stressful finals week or just because!
Unbox this opportunity and read on to discover unique ideas for designing amazing care packages. Excite a college student today with this heartfelt gesture!
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What item should every care package include?
Creating a care package can be a delightful way to demonstrate your care and thoughtfulness. It combines a mixture of practical items, fun surprises, and often much-needed essentials.
What goes into each package can vary greatly, but a gift card is always a must!
Care Packages Themes for College Students
Choosing a theme for a care package can help streamline the process and reduce the stress of deciding what to include.
Themes could be traditional, humorous, or catered towards particular interests or events, such as a holiday-themed box, an orange-colored items package to signify the end of exams or a coffee-themed care package for those who love a good brew.
Regardless of the theme, here are a few items that should ideally be included in every care package:
Self-Care Items: These can include items like face masks or beauty products, scented candles, and relaxing bath products, among others. They offer the recipient the luxury of self-pampering.
Comfort Items: Usually, soft items such as socks, blankets, or even simple things like their favorite tea or coffee can provide comfort.
Snacks & Treats: These are a must-have. Include their favorite bites or homemade goods if possible.
Drinks: Depending on the recipient’s preference, you can include a variety of drinks, like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Fun Things: Small games, coloring books, or novels can serve to reduce stress and provide entertainment.
Personal Care: Essential items such as toiletries or grooming products are always useful.
Cleaning Supplies: Especially for those away from home, cleaning supplies can be handy.
School Supplies or Work Essentials: Depending on the recipient’s needs, this could include notebooks, pens, sticky notes, etc.
Personal Safety Devices: Consider adding items like a mini first aid kit, a personal alarm, or a safety whistle.
Other Useful Things: Depending on the recipient’s interests, you could add items like a new book, a special photo, study aids, or sports gear.
Regardless of what you choose to include, the most important aspect of a care package is that it conveys love and care to the recipient.
Make sure you time sending your package well, and learn what time do Amazon packages arrive.
Best Care Packages for College Students
College students, often away from home for the first time, can sometimes struggle with homesickness or stress.
One of the most cherished remedies for these feelings is a thoughtful care package from home. It is an amazing way to remind them they’re loved and missed, bridging the gap between home and school.
But what really makes the best care package?
One that aligns with their interests, meets their fundamental needs and contains a surprise or two for fun.
A care package can boost their morale, make them feel less homesick, and get them through challenging times. It’s not just about what’s in the package, it’s about the thought and care that goes into it.
Here is a list to fill your care package with:
Food & Drinks:
1. Snacks: College students need fuel for their late-night study sessions. A variety of healthy snacks can give them that energy boost they need.
2. Instant coffee or tea bags: For caffeinated moments without needing to leave their dorm room.
3. Homemade Cookies or Baked Goods: Nothing says ‘care’ like homemade treats.
4. Specialty Coffees: For the coffee-lover student. Because it serves as an essential tool for late-night study sessions, helping students remain awake and energized.
5. Spirulina Powder: A superfood that’s great for a health boost.
6. Granola Bars or Oatmeal: Quick and easy to make, these are ideal for those mornings when students are running late for their classes.
7. Sugar-free chewing gum: Helps to maintain focus while studying.
8. Recipe Books: For the college student who needs help learning to cook. Even better create your own digital recipe book to pass along your family favorites!
9. Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle serves both as a health and environment-friendly gift.
10. English Breakfast Tea: This can provide a comforting, hot beverage that is easy to make in a dorm room. This electric tea kettle would be a special treat!
11. Hot Sauce: A versatile condiment like hot sauce can spice up drab, repetitive cafeteria meals.
12. Snacks & Munchies: Items like popcorn and pretzels are perfect for late-night cravings or for sharing with roommates.
13. Treats: Candies, chips, cookies, marshmallows, and nuts give students a sweet or savory option for a quick snack between classes.
14. Healthy items: Vitamins are great to keep students healthy, especially during finals when stress levels are high and sleep is compromised.
15. Fondue Set: A fun treat and a good reason to invite friends over.
Besides these food items, it would also be wonderful to include a few gift cards for local eateries or popular chains like Starbucks to give students the chance to have a meal or two outside the college cafeteria.
Self Care & Pampering:
16. Facial Masks: A fun and relaxing self-care item.
17. Natural Skin Care Products: To ensure their skin stays healthy too.
18. Cozy blanket: For those chilly nights in the dorm.
19. Candles: especially battery-powered ones, offer a relaxing ambiance without posing a potential fire hazard, making them ideal for dorms.
20. Spa Items: Think along the lines of bath bombs, Epsom salts, body lotion
21. Sheet Masks: this popular DIY spa at-home item is a must!
22. Essential Oils: These are needed as they offer a calming and uplifting aroma that can alleviate stress and contribute to an overall sense of well-being, especially in high-stress environments like colleges or workplaces.
23. Nail Care Kit: specifically items to do gel manicures at home. This is something I love to do myself!
24. Sleep Mask: To ensure a good night’s sleep.
25. Cute or neutral cozy socks: Socks provide warmth and comfort, helping individuals relax after a long day of classes or studying.
26. Shower Massager: A shower massager can provide much-needed stress relief after a day filled with classes, activities, and studying.
27. Scalp Massager: This can be an excellent tool for relaxation and stress relief, making it a perfect inclusion for a college beginning or the exam period.
28. Mini First Aid Kit: Every student should have a basic first aid kit.
To Get Moving (Health & Fitness):
29. Sports Equipment: For some physical activity.
30. Bluetooth Speaker: For listening to music or watching movies with friends.
31. Yoga Mat: It’s crucial to note that a yoga mat plays a significant role in providing comfort, reducing injury, and enhancing concentration during workouts.
32. Running Shoes: Running is one of the easiest ways to stay active. Or maybe to replace an old set of shoes.
33. Fitness resistance bands: These bands are perfect for incorporating into a student’s fitness routine, keeping them in shape even with their busy schedule.
Artsy Or Creative:
34. Coloring Book and Colored Pencils: A relaxing way to take study breaks. Or try this backward coloring book.
35. Colored Pencils: These complement the coloring books perfectly.
36. Notebooks and Stationary: Artists and writers would appreciate sets of beautiful stationery.
37. Origami Paper: tap into their creativity by providing a relaxing and enjoyable pastime that can help alleviate the stresses of academic life.
38. DIY Crafts: Handmade items for a personal touch.
39. Art Supplies: If they have an artistic side, new supplies can help fuel their creativity.
Mindfulness:
40. Stress Balls: Perfect for stressful exam periods. These are my favorite item on my desk!
41. Letters or Notes of Encouragement: Personal notes to show your love and support.
42. A Self-Care Journal: Helps to promote mindfulness and wellbeing.
43. An Inspirational Book: Can provide motivation and comfort.
44. Fidget Toy: Great for stress relief and concentration.
45. A calming lavender scented candle: This can help create a soothing environment, perfect for stress relief after a long day of lectures.
46. Zen Garden: This mini-sandbox can foster a bit of creativity and provide a mindless distraction from overwhelming studies.
47. Meditation guidebook: This can introduce a beginner to effective meditation techniques and potential benefits for mindfulness.
48. Affirmation cards: Daily positivity prompts can boost mood, and encourage a positive mindset.
49. White noise machine: This can provide calming background noise, assisting in good quality sleep and fostering mental well-being.
50. Weighted blanket: Proven to stimulate serotonin production, this blanket can increase feelings of calm and aid in better sleep.
51. Gratitude journal: This promotes the daily practice of noting down things one is grateful for, fostering a positive mindset, and reducing stress.
52. Mini Buddha Board: With this, they can paint with water and watch it slowly evaporate, reminding them of the impermanence of life’s stressors.
For School:
53. Portable Charger: No student wants to run out of battery while on the go.
54. Noise-Canceling Headphones: A fantastic tool that can help students study in peace, even in a noisy dorm.
55. iPhone/Android Charging Cord: An extra charging cord can be a lifesaver for busy students.
56. Planner: Helps students keep track of their assignments and plans. Don’t forget these planner stickers.
57. USB Flash Drive: For backing up important assignments and projects.
58. Study Supplies: Flashcards, highlighters, sticky notes, and more.
59. Stickers: These can be used to decorate their laptops, notebooks, or other personal items, adding a fun and creative element.
For Fun:
60. Birthday decorations: For a surprise birthday celebration.
61. Flying Butterflies out of the Box: This is one of my favorites! The butterflies fly out of the box when opened! Very easy to set up too.
62. Movie Night Pack: A collection of films, popcorn, and candy for a sweet night in.
63. Mini Board Games: Something fun they can do during their free time.
64. Board Game or Playing Cards: Fun games to play with friends during downtime.
65. Funny Socks: Just to put a smile on their faces.
66. “Orange you glad exams are almost over?” care package: A box full of orange-colored items will not only be visually striking but will also offer a light-hearted joke to help reduce exam stress.
To Help Their Budget:
67. Wallet or Money Clip: To keep their money and ID safe.
68. Budget Binder: make sure they are starting out right! Here are the best budget binders.
69. Laundry Detergent Pods: This easy-to-carry, mess-free laundry solution is perfect for college students.
70. Hygiene Products: Essential toiletries like toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and conditioner can save them a trip to the store.
71. Extra set of Sheets: Comes in handy during laundry day.
72. Prepaid Visa Gift Cards: These can be for anything from their favorite stores, food places or for movie tickets.
73. CASH: Check out these money gift ideas on ways to package it.
74. Money Cake with Cake: These are extremely popular with the recipient.
Maybe it is a good reminder for them to find remote jobs for college students.
Nostalgia:
75. A DIY Scrapbook: A place to store all of your pictures and mementos.
76. Stuffed Animal: For comforting cuddles on lonely nights.
77. Postcards from Home: Reminds them of their roots while away.
78. Cute photo frames: For them to display their favorite memories.
79. Personalized Keychain: To carry a piece of home with them at all times.
How to Choose the Right Care Package for a College Student
Transitioning to college life is notoriously challenging for students.
Tackling the academic load, juggling social responsibilities, and handling homesickness can be overwhelming. That’s where a thoughtful care package comes in as a ray of hope, bringing a taste of home, a load of love, and a boost of morale.
While choosing the ideal care package, consider these critical attributes:
Personalization: Pick items aligning with their tastes and interests. The more personal, the more cherished.
Versatility: Include a variety of items, from fun snacks to useful goods. Variety is the spice of life.
Affordability: There’s no need for a high budget. Thoughtfulness doesn’t need to be expensive.
Thematic elements: Consider packages focused on upcoming holidays or exam seasons for added relevance. The more timely, the more needed.
Convenience: Prioritize products that save your student time and energy. The simpler, the better.
Remember, these packages are powerful messages of love and support. Choose wisely.
When to Send Care Packages for College Students
One of the most fitting times to send a college student a care package is at the beginning of the freshman year when they are trying to adjust to their new environment.
However, these thoughtful packages can be sent at any time throughout their college journey to remind them that they are missed and cared for back home.
Fall
Thanksgiving
Christmas
Valentine’s Day
Easter
Finals
Birthday
Or any other holiday!
Especially during stressful periods, like exam season, a care package can be a well-appreciated and timely morale booster.
Tips for Sending a Care Package to a College Student
1. Consider the Student’s Needs
Do you puzzle over what to put in a care package for your college student? You’re not alone.
Many parents struggle with creating a meaningful gift that caters to their child’s actual needs.
The key is convenience and usefulness—factors often overlooked in the thrill of care package creation. Let’s transform your approach.
Tailoring your package to their needs ensures your thoughtful gift becomes a practical blessing in their hectic college life.
2. Consider the Budget
Overspending on care packages for your college student can shock your wallet. Just like trying to figure out how much to give for high school graduation.
The wrong box size could lead to needless extras and unexpectedly high shipping costs. Thankfully, you can easily drop ship the items with Amazon Prime.
Also, think about how many times per year you plan to send a care package. That way you can spread out the fun throughout the year.
This is especially true if you want to know how to pay for college without loans.
3. Email or Call the Student to Find Out What They Need
Don’t risk sending unneeded items to your college student that end up wasting space and money.
Imagine the disappointment when they open the package to find redundant or unnecessary supplies.
But there’s an easy fix! Before assembling a care package, make a quick call or send an email asking what they actually need. This simple step ensures your thoughtful gesture aligns perfectly with their requirements.
Remember, it’s about sending useful items that your student appreciates and utilizes – making your effort truly count!
FAQ
Feeling homesick is a common challenge for many college students. Their new environment can seem excitingly novel but also distressingly foreign. But you can help alleviate this uncomfortable feeling by sending thoughtful, comforting care packages.
Snacks from Home: Local snacks can evoke a sense of nostalgia, making them feel closer to home.
Personal Mementos: Tokens like pictures of family, posters of hometown landscapes, or preserved local flowers help create a familiar space in their dormitory.
Money: An unexpected cash bonus is not just practical, but also a mood booster. Who doesn’t love a surprise windfall?
Heartfelt Note/Card: A message of love and encouragement can provide emotional resiliency in distressing times.
Remember, your care packages remind them that they’re loved and thought of, even miles away.
Sending care packages to college students is a thoughtful gesture that can be done at any frequency you prefer.
For example, once a quarter might be a good rule to ensure your student receives regular reminders of your love and support.
Supplements around finals, or during difficult times, are always appreciated. Feel free to adjust the frequency based on your student’s needs and preferences.
Sending a college girl a care package is a great way to remind her of home and boost her spirits. And typically, girls want fun things specific to them.
Here are the top 5 items to include:
Hair Accessories: Such as colorful hair ties or headbands to add a fun touch to her looks.
Socks: Choose cozy and cute ones, they’ll be perfect for chilly dorm nights.
Lip Balm: This is essential for avoiding chapped lips, consider tinted options for a dual-purpose product.
Fun Study Supplies: Including unique pens or sticky notes as they can make studying a bit more entertaining.
Face Masks: They offer a chance for self-care and relaxation, especially for those stress-induced skin flare-ups.
Time to Pack Those College Care Packages!
Transitioning to college life can be both exciting and overwhelming. Often, college students find themselves daunted by academic rigors, social pressure, and the unique environment of living away from home.
But what if there was a simple way to overcome these challenges?
Enter: the care package.
With a little bit of planning, you can easily put together a care package that will make your student smile.
So what are you waiting for? Get started today!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
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Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, where we answer your real-world money questions. In this episode: Learn Nerdy tips to plan a Disney vacation without going broke, and how to choose a retirement plan when self-employed.
This Week in Your Money: Unlock the magic of making your next Disney vacation more affordable with insider tips from travel Nerd Sally French. She joins hosts Sean Pyles and Liz Weston to unveil the secrets behind experiencing Disneyland and Disney World on a budget, from strategic hotel choices to the types of tickets you might want to avoid. Plus: The Nerds discuss the value of early entry benefits, share their hot takes on whether Genie+ tickets are worth the splurge and explore methods for saving money on food and souvenirs.
Today’s Money Question: Investing Nerd June Sham joins Sean and Liz to answer a listener’s question about how to manage retirement plans and quarterly taxes as a self-employed professional. The Nerds go deep into 401(k) contribution limits, mega backdoor Roth 401(k) and IRA plans and SEP, or simplified employee pension, plans. You’ll discover money-saving strategies, understand when it’s important to budget for quarterly taxes and learn when you might need a tax professional to keep your finances in check.
Check out this episode on your favorite podcast platform, including:
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Episode transcript
Sean Pyles: Liz, I know you’re a big Disney fan and a Disneyland regular. How much do you think you’ve spent at Disneyland over the years?
Liz Weston: Oh, so much that Scrooge McDuck hasn’t finished counting it yet.
Sean Pyles: That’s a lot of gold coins. Well, this episode, we’re going to help folks find a more affordable way to get the most out of a Disney vacation.
Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money podcast, where you send us your money questions and we answer them with the help of our genius Nerds. I’m Sean Pyles.
Liz Weston: And I’m Liz Weston. Listener, you know the deal. There’s probably something in your financial life that you need help with. Well, let us be your Nerdy helping hand. No matter what the money question, send it our way.
Sean Pyles: You can leave us a voicemail or text us on the Nerd Hotline at 901-730-6373. That’s 901-730-NERD. You can also email us at [email protected]
Liz Weston: In this episode, Sean and I answer a listener’s question about choosing between different retirement accounts. But first, it’s off to Disney. We’re talking with travel writer Sally French about how you can save money on a Disney vacation.
Welcome back to Smart Money, Sally.
Sally French: Thanks for having me. It’s great to be back talking about one of my favorite topics, Disneyland.
Sean Pyles: Yeah. So Sally, it’s summertime. If families want to squeeze in a vacation to Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California before school starts, how much should listeners budget?
Sally French: Sean, I love the question, but it is so broad. There are so many ways to travel to Disney on every budget. That said, NerdWallet did some research to understand how much a trip costs for a family of four. What NerdWallet found is that a three-night visit to Disney World can range from about $3,000 on the lower end up to $6,000 for families who prefer more of a deluxe experience, and at Disneyland, it’s actually slightly more expensive. A family of four can expect to spend $3,600 on the low end and $6,500 on the higher end.
Sean Pyles: That is a lot of money. You can have a fantastic trip through Europe for that amount of cash. So what do you think are some good ways to save?
Sally French: What NerdWallet found is that more than tickets, more than souvenirs or food, hotels ate up the biggest chunk of the budget. And a big reason why Disneyland trips were more expensive overall than Disney World trips is because Disneyland hotels are more expensive overall.
When NerdWallet compiled this research, we looked at Disney-owned hotels, that’s as opposed to something like a Hilton or a Hyatt nearby, and in fact, staying at that Hilton or that Hyatt nearby or even something off-property like a vacation rental can be one of the best ways to save. Disney-owned hotels are just so expensive. At least at Disney World, there are roughly two dozen Disney-owned hotels, but at Disneyland there are only three Disney-owned hotels, which just really limits the options. So if you do want to fully stay at Disney for your entire trip, expect to pay a lot more.
Liz Weston: And it’s gotten more expensive over the years. I remember back in the day, you could actually get a room at the Grand Californian at Disneyland for under $200. Those days are so long gone. Yes, I just …
Sally French: Wow! Liz, please tell me you snagged that under-$200 deal. I’ve never stayed there because it is not in my budget.
Liz Weston: We snagged that a couple of times in January when our daughter was very small. Now, I just checked, and a standard room is over $800 a night at that one hotel. Yeah, so it’s crazy.
Sally French: But I think it is worth mentioning what the benefits are. So for people who don’t know what the Grand Californian is, that hotel has its own entrance to California Adventure Theme Park, and there are other benefits, like early entry. Early entry can be one of the most valuable perks because you get in line before everyone else does, and you know at Disney, time is money. So even though it’s expensive, just keep in mind there are benefits that, for some families, it can be worth it.
Sean Pyles: And getting into the park early can maybe make it so you don’t have to buy something like Genie+, which is a tool that allows people to skip lines in a very convoluted way. And Liz, I know you have strong feelings about this program. Can you please give us your thoughts?
Liz Weston: I’m going to try my hardest not to derail the conversation multiple times, but I do have to have a rant about Genie+. Could Disney have come up with a more confusing and complicated system? I would give anything to go back to our beloved FastPass, which was actually free. Now, you have to pay $25-plus per person to skip some lines, not all the lines, some lines. plus you’re going to pay another $25 to $30 bucks, again per person, to skip the lines for each of the most popular rides. It’s a huge additional expense for a family, but the alternative is standing for hours in line because the parks are almost constantly busy.
So to circle back to that early entry can make a big difference, the other thing that can really help is to be there at what they call rope drop, which is when the parks first open, generally about 30 minutes before the posted time. So if you can get your whole family up and there to the park, you can actually ride a lot of rides in that first hour or so.
Sally French: Yeah. And you know Liz, that’s really the best tip. I was actually just at Disney World and in the first hour, we did eight rides. We just beelined to Fantasy Land and just boom, boom, boom. We just hit all of them. But then the next three hours, we only got on two rides because people start piling in late. And so if you can get all those rides in early, you knock it all out and then have the rest of the day to sort of kick back and relax.
Sean Pyles: Yeah. Well also, if you are looking to have a relaxing vacation, I wouldn’t necessarily think that Disney is the place to do that. Between all of the people and the time and the money involved, it seems a little bit too stressful for my tastes.
But Sally, I’m wondering if you have any other tips for how people can save money if they are going to go the Disney route for their vacation.
Sally French: Yeah. So we talked already about considering staying off property. Again, there’s pros and cons, but other things are bringing your own stuff from off-property, so that is food and souvenirs. A lot of people don’t realize that Disney actually is very open about allowing you to bring in your own outside food. There are just a few limitations, like you can’t bring in glass or hard-sided coolers, things like that.
Same for souvenirs. Disney charges so much for souvenirs, but typically, there are very similar souvenirs being sold at Target. Your kid wants to go to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and get their princess dress. Can you go to a store like Target or even order on Amazon or wherever you buy kids toys and buy a princess dress for your kid there? They probably won’t even realize that you didn’t buy it at the Disney parks. So if you can surprise your kid that night and say, “Here’s your new princess dress,” they’ll probably think it came from Disney anyway.
Liz Weston: And I’m not sure about Disney World, but not far from Disneyland is what we like to call “The Magical Target” because it has tons of Disney merchandise for half or less of what you’d pay at the parks. It’s on Harbor Boulevard in Garden Grove, which is just down the road from Disneyland.
Sean Pyles: Tickets are also a really expensive part of Disney, but there are a few ways to get discounted tickets, right?
Sally French: Yeah, so Liz already mentioned Target, but I also recommend using Target to simply buy gift cards, which you can turn around and use to buy souvenirs in the park or use them to buy theme park tickets. The reason why I recommend buying gift cards at Target is for folks who have a Target REDCard, which is Target’s branded credit card, that REDCard offers 5% off and it’s automatic at the register on Target purchases.
If you’re not going to Target and you don’t have a Target REDCard, you might also look at places like Costco. They often have deals. AAA tends to have deals. Of course, these vary based on the time of the year. There’s even sometimes local resident deals. So if you live in California, there might be an offer. So shop around, even if you have some sort of corporate employee discount program, you might find discount Disney tickets there as well.
Liz Weston: And we should mention that Target also sells Disney entrance tickets and there’s usually a $5 to $10 discount compared to buying them directly from Disney. And then again, you get that 5% REDCard discount.
Sally French: Yeah, that’s a great tip.
Another thing to remember is Disney recently implemented that on-demand pricing. So if you are used to taking Ubers and Lyfts, you might know about surge pricing. That is something that has relatively been new to the Disney parks. So for better or for worse, it used to be that if you wanted to go to Disneyland on Christmas, a Saturday in the summer, it was just absolutely packed. And then if you went to Disney on a Tuesday in February when it’s raining, it would be a complete ghost town. And what’s happened now is that they charge significantly less to go on those off-peak times, that’s the rainy Tuesday in February, and significantly more to go on the peak times like the summer Saturday.
And so what that’s actually done is it has evened out the crowds because people are price-sensitive and they say, “You know what? I don’t mind going on that Tuesday in February if I can save money.” So if you are like that, you might be able to save money by going on those off-peak seasons.
Another sort of ticket hack, I like to say, is to avoid the Park Hopper. So Disney sells tickets that are single-day single-park, or they sell Park Hopper tickets, which allow you to go to multiple parks in one day. So at Disney World, there are four parks, and at Disneyland, there are two parks. If you are only going to be at the overall Disney resort for one day and you want to see what each park has to offer, then you will have to buy a Park Hopper, but these tickets are more expensive than single-day single-park. So if you are going to be on property for multiple days, I recommend just doing that single-day single-park.
Sean Pyles: So Sally, I have one last question for you. Given how much things cost at Disney, is there anything free at these parks?
Sally French: Sean, you asked the right person because I love free things to do at Disney.
So at Disneyland Resort in California, they have a shopping district called Downtown Disney. You can also wander into some of the hotels, which are nice to look around. You might even spot a Disney character there. But at Disney World, Sean, I actually took an entire week-long trip to Disney World and did not set foot into the parks once. That’s because I was explicitly trying to figure out what I could do outside the theme parks and the answer is a lot.
So they have something similar to Downtown Disney called Disney Springs. Again, it’s a shopping and dining district. They also have another smaller district called Disney’s Boardwalk and there are so many free things to do here. So the Boardwalk has live entertainment at night. You’ll see jugglers, you’ll see singers.
And then all of the resorts have so many unique attractions. We mentioned earlier there are about two dozen Disney resorts. They’re all really highly themed. You can watch the fireworks, you can ride the monorail around. They have so many amazing transportation systems that are free, like lovely boat rides. They have a Skyliner, which is this aerial gondola. It’s free.
And so believe it or not, there is so much stuff that you can do outside the parks that I think you could have a great time at Disney without once stepping foot inside a theme park.
Sean Pyles: All right, well Sally, thank you so much for sharing your tips with us.
Sally French: Thank you.
Liz Weston: Before we move on, we have an exciting announcement. We are running another book giveaway sweepstakes ahead of our next Nerdy Book Club episode.
Sean Pyles: Next month, we’re speaking with Cameron Huddleston, author of “Mom and Dad, We Need to Talk,” which guides us through challenging but essential financial conversations with our parents. To enter for a chance to win our book giveaway, send an email to [email protected] with the subject “Book Sweepstakes” during the sweepstakes period. Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on August 9th. Include the following information: your first and last name, email address, ZIP code and phone number. For more information, please visit our official sweepstakes rules page.
That wraps up our This Week in Your Money segment. Today’s Money Question is up next. Stay with us.
This episode’s Money Question comes from Austin, who texted us their question. Here it is as read by our audio editor, Kaely Monahan.
Kaely Monahan: Hello, my name is Austin and I have a question for a future NerdWallet Smart Money podcast episode. I earned some of my income through 1099 work as an on-call pediatrician at my local hospital. I’ve created a single-member LLC to receive this pay and would like to utilize it in the best way possible. It is extra and not needed for our monthly bills or expenses, and thus is used solely for saving and investing. I already maxed out the yearly employee 401(k) contributions and backdoor Roth through my W-2 salary, so I don’t think I can do any more on that front. I know I could contribute up to 25% of the total 1099 money to a solo 401(k).
My primary question is logistically, how do I do this? How do I choose between a Roth versus traditional 401(k)? How should I set aside some money for quarterly taxes and how do you pay quarterly taxes? How can I determine how much to put into the solo 401(k) each month versus how much I can save or invest in my taxable brokerage? And finally, do I need to wait until year-end and know the total yearly income before investing in anything? Any advice or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again for all your help.
Liz Weston: To help us answer Austin’s question, on this episode of the podcast we’re joined by investing writer June Sham. Welcome to Smart Money, June.
June Sham: Thank you so much for having me.
Sean Pyles: It’s great to have you on, June. There’s a lot going on in Austin’s question, but before we get into all of it, a quick reminder courtesy of the NerdWallet legal team. We are not investment advisors or financial advisors and will not tell you what to do with your money. Our job as Nerds is to give you the information and context so that you can make informed decisions with your money.
OK, now let’s get into the meat of Austin’s question. They’re asking about three different types of retirement plans: an employer-sponsored 401(k), a backdoor Roth and a solo 401(k). And Austin is essentially wondering how to fund and prioritize these accounts.
June Sham: Yeah, of course. So with the employer-sponsored 401(k) plan, you as the employee make pre-tax contributions into the account. What’s really great is that typically, most employers will offer a matching contribution based on the amount that you put in, and so it’s a great way to earn some extra free money towards your retirement savings.
Some 401(k) plans now also come in a Roth version, which doesn’t have an upfront deduction, but you do get to withdraw the money tax-free in retirement. So Austin also said he’s doing a backdoor Roth. What that means is that he’s contributing money to a traditional IRA and then converting that money to a Roth IRA. Roth IRAs have income limits, so this backdoor version is a method for people with higher incomes to get money into their Roth IRAs, which they necessarily wouldn’t be able to do.
Liz Weston: Yes, and like a Roth 401(k), Roth IRAs also don’t have an upfront tax break, but the money that you take out in retirement is tax-free.
So June, what about options for people who are self-employed or have self-employment income like Austin has?
June Sham: With self-employment income, you have a number of different options, which I think, Sean, you’ve covered on the podcast before. Austin might be confusing a couple of the more common types of self-employment retirement plans. A couple of these could be the SEP, or simplified employee pension, which allows Austin to contribute up to 25% of their net earnings from self-employment, and that’s up to $66,000 this year.
A solo 401(k) plan, which Austin mentioned, also has a $66,000 limit in 2023, but it breaks down a little differently. The self-employed business owner basically could contribute as an employer and an employee. And as an employee, Austin can contribute 100% of their compensation up to what’s known as elective deferral limit, which is $22,500 for people under 50 in 2023. As an employer, Austin can make a profit-sharing contribution of up to 25% of compensation. And the cool thing is that both the SEP and the solo 401(k) now have Roth versions as well.
Liz Weston: I just want to take a minute because most people, when they think about 401(k) limits, they’re thinking about the elective deferral limit. So that’s the one that gets all the publicity that if you know anything about 401(k)s, that’s probably the one you’ve seen, but these plans actually have much higher limits that count things like employer and after-tax contributions.
Sean Pyles: June, some financial advisors will recommend a specific order for prioritizing different types of retirement accounts. Can you talk about that and what Austin should consider as they’re deciding which of their retirement accounts to put the most money in?
June Sham: When it comes to figuring out where to put your retirement savings, it really comes down to the types of accounts you have and how much you can set aside. Let’s say, for example, it’s not possible to contribute the maximum to all of their retirement accounts, and in this case, most advisors probably recommend starting with your 401(k) plan, especially if it has an employer match to get that free money.
After you’ve gotten the match, you can look to an IRA based on the type of tax break you want, and from there, you can go back to your 401(k) plan.
Sean Pyles: Austin also wants to know how to set up a solo 401(k). How would they go about doing that?
June Sham: For that, you need an employer identification number, which they already have since they’ve set up that limited liability company. From there, you can set up a solo 401(k) with most online brokers and they’ll provide stuff like plan adoption agreements and account applications to fill out. Once that’s completed, you can go ahead and choose your investments.
Liz Weston: OK. For the second part of Austin’s question, they want to know how to prioritize contributions specifically among their plans. What would you tell people about that?
June Sham: So for people like Austin who have both an employer-sponsored 401(k) plan and a solo 401(k) plan, the most important thing they need to remember is that the annual contribution limit is a combined limit. So how to split contributions between the two plans could depend on things like employer match, plan administrative costs and investment options.
Sean Pyles: All right. And that part about combined contribution limits is really important here. In general for the 2023 tax year, the elective deferral limit for 401(k)s is $22,500, the number that we’ve mentioned earlier in this episode, and that’s if you’re under 50. If you’re 50 and over, you can contribute up to $30,000.
From Austin’s question, it seems like they’re saying they’re contributing the maximum amount to their 401(k) from their W-2 employer and they’re also looking to add more to a 401(k) via a solo 401(k). That might mean that they actually over-contribute, which could land Austin in a bit of trouble. Can you discuss what happens if you do over-contribute to an account like a 401(k)?
June Sham: Yeah, so if you have an excess contribution, it must be withdrawn by April 15th of the following year, or else there could be a lot of penalties including having the plan disqualified.
Sean Pyles: Hm. That’s bad.
Liz Weston: Yeah, very bad.
June Sham: Yep, that’s not really great. Austin could also make contributions to the solo 401(k) solely as an employer, not as an employee, so that Austin can avoid going above that employee contribution limit. Or a last option is that Austin could simply opt for a SEP and not have to worry about that combined limit, since a SEP is considered an entirely different type of plan if it’s offered by a different employer.
Sean Pyles: June, you mentioned earlier that SEPs and solo 401(k)s also have a Roth option, and so do a lot of workplace 401(k) plans. A lot of people have a hard time deciding when to contribute to Roth versus options that give them an upfront tax deduction. Personally, I try to balance when my retirement money is taxed. Some is taxed now and some will be taxed down the road. I contribute a lot to my 401(k). Last year, I was really focused on contributing to my Roth IRA, and I recently set up something called a mega backdoor Roth, something that I know Liz is a huge fan of and we’ll get into in a little bit.
Liz Weston: I totally will. I totally will. I am all about tax diversification and it’s a phrase that planners love to use when they’re describing the ability basically to better control your taxes in retirement. If all of your money is in pre-tax options, like if you’re maxing out the 401(k) pre-tax or putting it all in a traditional IRA where you get a tax deduction, it all has to be taxed when it comes out and they force you to take it out at a certain age. If you’ve got money in a Roth, you don’t have to pay income taxes on withdrawals and you also don’t have to worry about required minimum distributions. That gives you a heck of a lot more control.
June Sham: Yeah, early in my career, I focused solely on making Roth contributions for pretty much that exact reason. I assume that my earning potential would change in the future and I wanted to be able to access that money tax-free in retirement. But now, I see a lot of value in having, Liz, what you said, tax diversification and taking advantage of things now as opposed to later and helping me plan out my retirement strategy.
Liz Weston: Yes. And one other thing to check out is what Sean just mentioned, which is the mega backdoor Roth option. We talked about the backdoor Roth where you contribute to a traditional IRA and then you convert it. The mega backdoor Roth is a similar idea, but it is on steroids. So mega backdoor Roths have to be offered by your employer and many of them don’t.
But if they do, it starts out with a 401(k) plan that allows you to make after-tax contributions, and then it offers what’s known as an in-service conversion. In other words, the money you put in after tax is converted right away into a Roth option. Normally, you would have to wait until you left your job to roll after-tax money into a Roth. So high earners really like the mega backdoor Roth because they don’t have to worry about those Roth IRA income limits, plus you can put a lot more money in. IRAs have a lower contribution limit, the $6,500 that we mentioned earlier for people under 50. With a mega backdoor Roth, you can contribute up to, get this, $43,500. That’s in addition to the $22,500 that you can contribute to the regular 401(k) plan.
Now, there’s a lot of math that goes into this and we will have links in the show notes to articles that explain exactly how this works and who it might be good for.
Sean Pyles: I think a lot of listeners may be listening to that and thinking, “First of all, that’s confusing. I don’t know what’s going on.” And second of all, “$66,000 is a lot, a lot of money to contribute to a retirement account in a single year.” And so I want to zoom out a little bit and talk about retirement account contributions, maxing out retirement accounts, in relation to other financial goals, because maxing out a retirement plan or three can be really great for your future self, but it’s not realistic for many people and it can sometimes conflict with other goals like saving for a down payment on a house, building up an emergency fund, that sort of thing.
And our listener, Austin, is also wondering about when to invest money into a brokerage account versus a retirement account. I’d love to hear how you guys think about competing financial priorities in your own lives, especially as it relates to retirement and other investments.
June Sham: Yeah, you bring up a really good point, Sean. Our immediate financial goals and responsibilities are just as important as our future ones. It would be so great if we could all max out our retirement accounts, and truly, major congratulations to Austin for doing so, but it’s also not the end of the world if we can’t.
At least in my own life, I try to remember that everyone’s financial journey is different. You can’t use someone else’s financial plans because we’re all in different places. And so being strategic with your own money and being realistic with your own goals is the best way to make the decisions for yourself.
When deciding to prioritize between retirement or brokerage accounts though, you really need to consider when you need the money. If it’s shorter than five years, then short-term investments like online savings accounts, CDs or money market accounts might be the best move. For anything longer, you could consider, then, a brokerage or retirement account, but just remember that with retirement accounts, you can’t withdraw the funds until 59 and a half years old without incurring penalties and taxes.
Sean Pyles: One way I like to think about retirement contributions and the lofty goal of maxing out accounts in relation to other things is that you don’t have to do one thing for the rest of your life. Maybe you have a great year financially and you can max out your retirement account and maybe the next year, you have some financial setbacks or you have other expenses come up, like you have a kid, that needs a lot of money of course, and so you draw back from contributing as much to your retirement account because you have a much more pressing financial priority in the form of a baby or a house or whatever it may be.
So I think that just understanding that you may have peaks and valleys of what you can put into different financial priorities will help you be more flexible and accomplish many different things simultaneously.
Liz Weston: Yes, I would just add that I am really glad that I tried to put in as much in as possible to my retirement funds when I was younger because that gave me a heck of a lot more flexibility down the road when I did want to start my own business and have a kid and take some time off. And all those things were possible because I kind of maxed out at the beginning, if that makes sense. It is not something that everybody can do. However, that wonderful power of compounding really gets going for you if you can put money into a retirement account as early as possible.
So I do encourage people, don’t ignore this, this is really important, try to do it, but as you guys said, there are lots of different goals that we have to accomplish and sometimes it’s tough to get it all done.
June Sham: Yeah. And every little bit helps. If you only just put in a little bit, compound interest can help you take care of it even more.
Liz Weston: Yep, exactly.
Sean Pyles: Yeah. And play the long game. And Liz, now I have a question for you as a business owner. Austin is wondering about quarterly taxes and how to manage them. I’m guessing your suggestion for Austin would be to hire a qualified tax professional.
Liz Weston: And the earlier, the better. When you have your own business, you have so many complicated issues to deal with. It can really help to have another set of eyes on your tax return, someone knowledgeable who can guide you and answer questions because tax people do this 24/7. I mean, Austin is a doctor and they’ve got a business to run. They’ve got a lot of things to do without going to study the tax law. So yes, absolutely get a qualified tax professional.
We have what’s known as a pay-as-you-go tax system, so we are supposed to be withholding taxes as we earn money. You can’t just wait until you file your taxes to figure out what you owe, unfortunately. And Sean, I think you discovered this.
Sean Pyles: Yes.
Liz Weston: To your distress earlier in your career.
Sean Pyles: Years ago, I was on the hook for a pretty big tax bill because I did not save as I went with my contractor money, and I did not enjoy it. So learn from me and put aside the money, pay quarterly. Yes.
Liz Weston: There you go. And a tax pro can help you figure out how much to pay each quarter so that you are what’s known as penalty proof. In other words, you won’t owe penalties for under-withholding. Once you know how much you owe each quarter, you divide it by the number of checks or payments or whatever that you expect to get in the meantime, and you set that cash aside. Then you pay before the deadline each quarter. It’s super easy to do online.
Sean Pyles: I don’t think we’ve ever covered so many disparate but interconnected and complicated topics in a single segment.
June, thank you so much for joining us and sharing your insights.
June Sham: Thanks so much for having me.
Sean Pyles: And with that, now let’s get onto our takeaway tips. Liz, will you please start us off?
Liz Weston: Yes. First, know your options. You may have a variety of retirement accounts available, including Roth IRAs, traditional 401(k)s, and self-employment options.
Sean Pyles: Next, plan for tomorrow, but live for today. Maxing out your retirement accounts is a great goal, but think about how you can balance that with nearer-term financial priorities like going on vacations or buying a house.
Liz Weston: Finally, tap professional help. Tax obligations as a business owner can be confusing. Consider hiring a qualified tax pro to help you sort out what you owe and how to pay it.
Sean Pyles: And that’s all we have for this episode.
Do you have a money question of your own? Turn to the nerds and call or text us your questions at 901-730-6373. That’s 901-730-NERD. You can also email us at [email protected] Visit nerdwallet.com/podcast for more info on this episode, and remember to follow, rate, and review us wherever you’re getting this podcast.
This episode was produced by Liz Weston and myself with help from Tess Vigeland and Meghan Coyle. Kaely Monahan and Kevin Tidmarsh mixed our audio. And a big thank you to the folks on the NerdWallet copy desk for all their help.
Liz Weston: And here’s our brief disclaimer. We are not financial or investment advisors. This nerdy info is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes and may not apply to your specific circumstances.
Sean Pyles: And with that said, until next time, turn to the Nerds.
While some people think of Walt Disney World as a place designed for kids, that’s not entirely the case. In fact, some parts of Disney World aren’t kid-friendly at all. The elegant, AAA Five Diamond Award-winning restaurant Victoria & Albert’s doesn’t allow kids under 10, and Jellyrolls — a dueling piano bar — is for vacationers 21 and up.
A trip to Disney World for couples or adult friends can be fun and worth taking. But even without kids to add onto trip costs, a Disney trip for two is not cheap.
The average cost of Disney World for two adults can easily top $4,000 for a seven-night trip, and that’s for frugal travelers. Couples who want to splurge on the fanciest rooms and restaurants, perhaps those traveling for a honeymoon or proposal — or those who simply want to travel in style — should budget at least $10,000 for seven nights.
A NerdWallet analysis sought to find out how much a trip to Disney World for two costs, accounting for line items across these four categories:
Park tickets (and add-ons, like Genie+).
On-property hotel room rates.
Food at park restaurants.
Add-on activities, like spa treatments and tours.
Because Disney offers options for a range of budgets, NerdWallet categorized the average cost of a Disney vacation for two into three price tiers: Value, Moderate and Deluxe (which is the same classification that Disney World uses for its hotels).
A frugal couple might be fine booking a Value hotel with minimal frills and only dine-at-counter service restaurants or carts. But other adults might purchase extras to improve the experience, like line-skipping privileges or larger rooms — all variations accounted for in the average price estimates listed below. Read more about NerdWallet’s methodology at the end of this article.
Here’s how much you should anticipate spending per day, per person (with hotel prices based on double occupancy), based on travel style:
One-day, one-park theme park ticket
One-night hotel room (Saturday night)
Individual meal
The average total Disney World cost for 2 adults
Here are NerdWallet’s estimates of a Disney vacation for two, broken down by travel style and length of trip:
Each Disney budget listed above assumes daily theme park tickets, three meals per day and overnight stays at a Disney-owned hotel with both travelers sharing one room.
Disney World ticket prices
Disney World ticket prices vary by park and date.
One-day Magic Kingdom Park tickets average $160, making it typically the most expensive of the four Walt Disney World theme parks. Magic Kingdom may be the most iconic and features romantic spots like Cinderella Castle (which might be ideal for a Disney proposal), but it’s also viewed as the most family-friendly park, which means more strollers to dodge.
Meanwhile, Epcot tends to be the cheapest Disney theme park — which is a plus given it’s often considered the best Disney World park for adults anyway. About half of the park is devoted to World Showcase, which consists of 11 mini subsections themed to a different country, including Norway, China and Morocco. Each serves up food and beverages (including alcohol), and some have rides, too.
Disney World price per person
One-day, one-park ticket advertised price range
$109 to $189.
Average one-day, one-park ticket price
Genie+ (add-on option for Moderate and Deluxe trips)
Starting at $15.
Disney World ticket prices drop the longer you stay. For example, five-day, one-park-per-day tickets average $643 (that’s $129 per day).
Optional Disney ticket upgrades include Lightning Lanes, which are priority queues for certain attractions, and Park Hopper tickets, which allow multiple park visits per day. Upgrades aside, here’s how much you should expect to spend on Disney tickets for two adults, based on number of theme park days:
Disney World hotels
The myriad of Disney-owned hotels offer options across price points. They range from Disney’s All-Star properties — which start at $128 per night, according to Disney trip planning website Touring Plans, and are considered Value properties — to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which starts at $780 and is one of the most expensive Deluxe hotels.
Specific room rates vary based on check-in date and specific property, but here are average prices broken down by type and trip length, according to NerdWallet’s analysis:
Three nights
Seven nights
Even Disney’s cheapest hotel rooms are more expensive than what you might find elsewhere in the Orlando area. The average daily room rate across Orlando is just $186.49, according to Visit Orlando’s 2022 Travel Industry Indicators. That’s about 35% less than the $286 average price for the cheapest Disney resort.
Disney World food
NerdWallet researched average meal prices to find an estimate for the Disney World cost of food. Value meals consisted of an entree and drink, while meals placed in the Moderate or Deluxe tier (all served at table service restaurants with waitstaff) also included either an appetizer or dessert.
Here were average Disney World meal prices per person, based on restaurant tier:
Other activities and expenses
NerdWallet’s calculations did not factor in miscellaneous items and souvenirs, which you might want to account for when estimating your own trip to Disney World.
But NerdWallet’s seven-day trip estimations did consider other entertainment and activities, which are add-ons that Disney refers to as its “Enchanting Extras Collection.” They include scuba diving, golf lessons and dessert cruises aligned to sail during the fireworks. (NerdWallet did not add the costs of these extras for shorter trips, given that most people would be devoting their time to the theme parks).
Someone seeking a behind-the–scenes tour on a budget might book the $35, one-hour Behind the Seeds tour that takes you into Epcot’s fish farm and greenhouses. Longer and more expensive tours include the Animal Kingdom’s $199 Wild Africa Trek tour, which involves three hours of hiking, off-roading in a safari vehicle and traversing a rope bridge.
For couples taking seven night trips, here’s how much extra NerdWallet estimates you should budget for Disney World extras (for two people):
Value: $284.
Moderate: $443.
Deluxe: $911.
While not everyone will opt for these activities, many adult travelers might incorporate Disney Enchanting Extras in their budget for Disney World.
How couples can visit Disney World on a budget
Couples should expect to spend a minimum of $700 if staying on Disney property for one night and visiting the parks for one day.
For three-night stays (and two theme park days), costs inflate to a minimum of $1,800. And for seven-night stays with five theme park days, expect the trip to cost at least $4,000 if you’re low-frills. However, you might spend more than $10,000 across seven nights if you vacation like you’re keeping up with the Joneses. And that’s all before accounting for the cost to actually get there.
Here are some strategies for couples planning a trip to Disney World on a budget:
Book Disney Good Neighbor Hotels, which are hotels owned by other large hotel chains. Cash rates are typically cheaper than those at Disney’s own hotels, and they can sometimes be booked for free (assuming you have hotel points earned through frequent stays or credit card rewards).
Commit to Disney’s free mass transit. While families might require a rental car to use their own car seat, adults can get away with relying solely on Disney’s extensive transportation network of boats, monorails, buses and gondolas, which are free to use.
Don’t be afraid to order the kids’ meals. Particularly if dining at a counter-service restaurant, no one will know if you’re ordering a kids menu item to be consumed by an adult.
Methodology
To better understand what an average trip to Disney World for two adults costs, NerdWallet gathered more than 200 ticket prices, 550 Disney-owned hotel room rates and 100 additional activities and restaurant prices between April 2023 and April 2024. NerdWallet aggregated those figures to build sample trip budgets based on travel style and trip length and ultimately to determine how much a Disney trip for two costs.
NerdWallet’s trip costs start once you’re on property, thus don’t account for parking, airfare or driving costs. Here’s what’s included in each price tier:
Travel style
A budget-minded traveler seeking affordable options, few frills and little to no add-ons.
Someone price conscious but who occasionally splurges.
Someone who will pay top dollar to access the high end of what Disney offers.
Tickets (Disney World)
One-park-per-day tickets.
One-park-per-day tickets with Genie+.
One-park-per-day tickets with Genie+.
Hotels (Disney World)
Overnight at Disney’s Value hotels.
Overnight at Disney’s Moderate hotels.
Overnight at Disney’s Deluxe hotels.
Daily meals (Disney World)
Three meals (one entree and one beverage) at Value counter service restaurants or food carts.
Two Value meals plus one Moderate meal (one entree, one dessert or side and one beverage) at a casual, table service restaurant with waitstaff.
One Value meal, one Moderate meal plus one Deluxe meal at an upscale, table service restaurant with waitstaff.
Extra activities (Disney World)
Value add-ons, like cheap seats at Disney World’s Cirque du Soleil show or a lower-budget spa treatment (like an express pedicure).
Moderate add-ons, like central seats at Disney World’s Cirque du Soleil show or a grand pedicure at the spa.
Deluxe add-ons, like front-row seats at Disney World’s Cirque du Soleil show or a full-body massage at the spa.
Stateroom type (Disney Cruise Line)
Standard Inside.
Deluxe Oceanview.
Deluxe Oceanview with Verandah.
Daily meals (Disney Cruise Line)
No extra meals added.
One additional meal at Palo.
One additional meal and wine pairing at Palo.
Extra activities (Disney Cruise Line)
No extra activities added.
Moderate add-ons, like a spa day pass or snorkeling excursion.
Deluxe add-ons, like a spa day pass with massage or scuba excursion.
Because Walt Disney World ticket prices vary by park, one-day ticket prices were based on Magic Kingdom admission. Two-day ticket prices were based on Magic Kingdom and Epcot. In addition, NerdWallet’s analysis did not account for Park Hopper tickets, which allow access to multiple theme parks per day.
And of course, these budgets for the average cost for a trip to Disney should be used to estimate — rather than determine — your own Disney trip costs. Couples who pack their own snacks might spend less on Disney food. Meanwhile, those using their Disney trip as a shopping spree should account for souvenir costs, alongside other potential extras like PhotoPass.
(Top photo courtesy of Walt Disney World)
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
As we creep up on two years in our loft it’s really evolved into what feels like a full fledged home! So when Apartment Therapy asked if they could take a tour pinch me!!, I felt like the space was finally ready for primetime! I’m so excited the feature went live and that I get to share it with you.
Our living room has really taken shape over time. We started with the base of the couch and coffee table that we’ve had since day one, and slowly but surely have made updates with additional layers to create the warmth and comfort I crave. Our DIY hide rug has come in, gorgeous block printed pillows by my latest discovery Susan Connor out of NYC. They’ve added a lovely bit of handmade style to the sofa. And of course there are our favorite objects, souvenirs and personal finds that add bits of interest and make me smile every time I look at them.
We’re still loving our West Elm Bentwood side table. As we head into summer, I wanted a lighter look so I added my favorite new Bertoia-inspired Maude chair from Lulu & Georgia in front of the fireplace. I love how it juxtaposes a modern flair against more organic elements in the room.
I’ve also added a little vignette at the foot of our staircase. It all started after I couldn’t return the palm we used in this shoot. I just had to find it a home. And I’ve become a huge fan of layering art on the floor. Combined with my Timothy Oulton jumbo mirror from HD Buttercup, et voila!
I’ve also added a ton of greenery – from our beloved fiddle leaf fig we now have a tree & table top version, my new fave, the snake plant and of course fresh flowers! The blooms in these pics came from my favorite florist extraordinaire Natalie Bowen.
For the first time, I’m also sharing pics of our kitchen! It’s still a bit of a sore spot for me because, as a renter, there’s nothing I can really do about the myriad of problems with it. Hello black appliances, builder grade cabinets and poorly laid subway tile. Ugh. It all still pains me, but I’ve learned to live with it. Our stainless steel island has made me like the space a bit more. It’s super functional and super affordable- I got it at a restaurant supply store!
I’ve also added a few fresh details to the bedroom. Throw pillows are the easiest and one of the most economical ways to freshen up a space so I added a few new faves from West Elm to give the bed a spring vibe. I also kept true to my love of all things white by adding these Robert Abby table lamps. My secret to keeping my closet under control is swapping out seasonal items. All of my sweaters and coats are now tightly packed under our bed. Though when I make the seasonal switch it always reminds me how overdue I am for another purge!
It’s such a good feeling to walk into your house and feel at home. While I never feel like it’s truly “done” to the husband’s chagrin, I’m loving what we got goin’ on right now!
I have to thank Apartment Therapy for stopping by. Definitely check out the full feature here – Chloe and Bailey make a cameo!!
shop the loft: Room & Board Wells Sofa, Jumbo Arcitect Floor Lamp c/o LampsPlus, side table west elm, susan connor throw pillows, rebecca atwood throw pillows, maude chair c/o lulu & georgia, vintage wood beads hudson grace, Robert Abby bedside lamps c/o LampsPlus, crane & canopy bedding, Ikea wall mounted entry mirror, CB2 entry table, west elm bedroom throw pillows, missoni home throw, muuto dots wall hooks, a sunny afternoon cutting boards, heath ceramics