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I’m lucky. I’ve lived only thirty minutes or less from Universal Studios in Orlando for most of my life.
That means I know just how expensive everything is within the park. Tickets can easily exceed $200 per person for one day! However, you don’t have to overspend when visiting this magical theme park.
To help you save on your next trip there, I’ve chosen 12 tips I, or my family, have used before. The tips are convenient, inexpensive, and easy.
I’m confident these 12 tips will save you a bundle on your next Universal Studios trip.
1. Buy a Refillable Cup
Instead of buying multiple drinks throughout the day, I suggest investing in a souvenir cup. They are such a deal if you spend a lot of time at the parks.
Generally, you can get free or discounted refills the first day you buy them. The last time I went to Universal Studios (in 2023), a cup of soda was over $5, and refills were not included!
2. Snacks vs. Meals
I’m a super cheap person. You won’t find me buying full meals in sit-down restaurants in Universal Studios, but everyone is different. If you want to save as much money as possible, consider only buying snacks.
Not only will you save money, but also time. Wait times in restaurants are long, especially around lunch.
3. Say No to Photos
You’re probably wondering what I mean about this. I don’t mean you shouldn’t take any pictures, but instead, don’t pay for pictures unless absolutely necessary. You can save yourself some extra money by not including this extra.
If you have a phone, you can just take your own photos! I’ve even seen people bring disposable and Polaroid cameras.
4. Leave the Big Rides to the End
Technically, saving time is money. When you shell out thousands of dollars to visit a theme park, it’s best if you can get your money’s worth. Why only ride one or two roller coasters?
My tip is to start the parks counterclockwise. Don’t go to the first ride you see, as the line will be super long until the end. Leave the big rides until near closing.
5. Bring Your Poncho
One thing to know about Orlando, especially during the summers, is that it always rains. Expect a quick rain shower or thunderstorm in the afternoon. According to the Florida Climate Center, in 2023, Florida experienced 54.15 inches of precipitation.
Instead of spending too much money in the parks on waterproof accessories, I recommend buying them in advance. Bring a poncho, umbrella, and waterproof phone holder if you can.
6. Purchase the Tickets Online
If you can, book your theme park tickets online. You don’t want to spend hours standing in a line at the gate, especially under Florida heat.
Not only are the lines long, but multi-park and day tickets are cheaper online. You’ll save money, time, and some peace. Online tickets are also a lot more convenient. With just a few clicks, you can have tickets delivered to your email with any extras.
7. Buy Tickets and Extras Early
Prices are always subject to change. You can check Universal’s website one month; the price may have changed for the same date by the next.
I recommend buying your tickets as early as possible before your trip. Purchasing on the same day can be costly.
8. Check out Universal’s Shows
Remember Universal’s shows while you’re cooling down, resting, and waiting for lines to lower. This isn’t a direct money-saving tip, but it does help you save time and money in the long run.
For instance, you can snack and rest while sitting and watching a show. You can even time it so you can go on a ride nearby before or after the show.
9. Ask for Water
Did you know you can get free water at Universal Studios? You can easily spend over $30 just to stay hydrated, but you don’t need to buy bottled water at the park. Instead, you can visit any park kiosk or restaurant and ask for a cup of water. You can keep the cup and refill it at a water station.
10. Split a Meal With Two People
If you aren’t a fan of snacks, you can still save money by buying full meals. The meals at Universal Studios are pretty big, and I can’t usually finish them.
You can easily split a meal with at least one person if you’re anything like me. The same goes for drinks!
11. Stay in an Onsite Hotel
Another way to save money on a Universal Studios trip is to book a resort with Universal. This way, you can get discounted passes and don’t have to drive to the theme parks.
Most Universal hotels even provide transportation. You can take a shuttle to and from Universal to your hotel.
12. Ditch Souvenirs
Souvenirs within Universal Studios aren’t worth it. They are extremely expensive and often not worth the price. Usually, you can find the same souvenirs or even better ones in gift shops around the theme parks.
As an Orlando native, I recommend saving money in the parks and heading to International Drive. There are dozens of gift shops, and if you shop around, you’ll find plenty of deals.
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