Orlando on a budget | Virgin Atlantic Holidays
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Kids jumping in the pool
Kids jumping in the pool

Orlando: On a budget

A trip to the theme park capital doesn't need to cost the earth...

A holiday is the stuff of dreams, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. You can find cracking deals on fantastic Orlando holidays and still be close to all the fun. Combining a fantastic hotel deal with a few insider tips will allow you to fully enjoy your holiday without a worry.

Orlando isn't just about spending two weeks walking around theme parks, there's plenty to enjoy at all costs. Most of all, a holiday is about relaxing and making memories - whatever it is you're doing!

Hotels

When picking your Orlando hotel, it's a great idea to look for ones that offer great value for money. Whether it's complimentary breakfast, or free transport to the parks - these added extras can help to save money to spend elsewhere!

Did you know?

You can also reach Orlando easily by flying into Tampa, direct with Virgin Atlantic!

Not finding flights to suit your dates or budget? Tampa is just 90 minutes drive from Orlando so it's a great alternative to think about.

When checking your flights, make sure you filter to direct and you should see a Tampa alternative that could be just right for you! Add on your hire car and you'll be in Orlando in no time.

Book today. Pay it your way

Holidays are a big deal. But they can also make a big dent in your pay cheque – especially right now. Booking your trip with plenty of time to spare allows you to spread the cost and keep those monthly payments to a minimum. And if you set up a direct debit, there’ll be no hefty bill when the final payment is due. Lock in your price today. You’ll be surprised how quickly that holiday comes around.

Girl in the pool

Payment plan for families

Representative example:

Family holiday to Orlando (travelling in 23 Months) £3,150
Deposit £175 pp £700
   
Balance due 12 weeks prior to departure  £2,450
20 months direct debit (per booking) £122.50
   

If you choose to pay the minimum deposit or other amount today, you'll be able to set up a direct debit for the remaining balance once your booking is confirmed. Just log into Manage My booking and add the relevant details.

  1. Make the most of any added benefits at the hotel

    Whether it's filling up on complimentary breakfast so that you can purchase a smaller lunch whilst out and about, or hopping on the complimentary transport to the parks - make sure you're aware of any added benefits that are included in your stay.

  2. Sometimes a little extra can be worth it

    Don't be put off with the thought of staying on site at the parks. The extra money on the hotel may be worth it if it includes benefits that will save you money once you're on holiday. And you can spread the cost out with direct debit so it's paid for in advance!

  3. Choose the right room type

    Booking an apartment or villa can be better value when split between a large group, and if you go for one that has a kitchen/kitchenette could allow you to prepare lunches for your days out, and eat in for less in the evenings. Popping to Walmart isn't only cheaper than eating out, it's an experience everyone has to do at least once in the USA - you can get some fab souvenirs to bring home too!

  4. Buy your tickets in advance

    Whatever parks you do decide to visit, we recommend you purchase these at the time of booking your trip, as they are better value than at-the-gate tickets, and come with a whole host of incredible benefits that offer added flexibility.

  5. Take a refillable water bottle with you

    Costs can add up when you're in the parks, and you're sure to be needing plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. The parks have water fountains placed all over, so this is a great way to save some pennies.

  6. Transportation

    There are some great ways to get where you need to be without spending too much. The i-Ride Trolley on International Drive is good value for money. And look out for hotels that include complimentary shuttle services to parks and other attractions.

  7. Explore further out

    If you're renting a car, restaurants and shops further afield from International Drive will be significantly cheaper, and you can find some true individual gems too.

  8. Be a savvy shopper

    If you sign up for the VIP club at Orlando premium outlets, you can get a book of discount coupons to use.

  9. Travel off-peak

    It's not always possible, but if you can, try to travel in those times of year that are less in demand. The parks will be less manic, saving the need for fast track purchases, and you will get better rates on your hotel and flights

I-Ride trolly

I-RIDE Trolley

This nifty and cost-saving service is your holiday superhero, swooping in to save the day! The International Drive Resort Area is yours to discover, one delightful stop at a time. With 1, 3, 5, 7 & 14 day passes available to buy when you book your Florida holiday, you can say goodbye to the stress of parking and the headache of driving.

 

View I-RIDE trolley map here

Things to do

Having fun isn't all about spending loads of money. Orlando has plenty of attractions that can be done for little or no cost, and these are a few of our favourites...

Food and Drink

Disney Dining

Look out for leaflets

Plenty of hotels in Orlando will have coupon booklets available with restaurant discounts galore - so don't miss out! From complimentary kids meals, to percentage discounts, there's always offers available so make sure to keep an eye out for those leaflet stands.

Happy Hour

Happy Hours

There's plenty of happy hours to be had in Orlando, inside and outside the parks so do your research, they even pop up where you least expect them. For example, the highly rated steakhouse chain STK offers a large selection of plates for $3-9 from 3.30-6pm, as well as reduced drinks!

Olive Garden

Olive Garden

There's plenty of chains with multiple restaurants in Orlando that offer great value meals, and Olive Garden is a particular favourite. They offer unlimited breadsticks and salad with your meal, so it's a great way to load up without buying additional starters and sides!

Buffet dining

'All you can eat' buffets

Buffets can be a great way to get value for money. Cici's Pizza is famous for it's all-you-can-eat pizza and pasta at low prices, and whilst some of the ones at the Disney or Universal hotels might be slightly more money, you get a lot for your buck!

Florida Mall

Food Courts

Whilst in the shopping malls or the parks, if you're looking to save the pennies at lunch then head for the food court rather than sit down restaurants. Not only do they provide a huge variety of options, they are significantly less expensive.

Holidays you can trust

Mother and daugher boarding the plane

We've got you covered

Book your dream holiday with confidence. We provide financial protection for our holidays with ATOL and ABTA protection, giving you peace of mind that if anything doesn’t go to plan, we’ll make sure you’re looked after.

 

As part of Virgin Atlantic, you can expect a seamless journey to your destination, as well fabulously faultless service at every step.

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We're experts

We've been arranging holidays since 1985 and are the largest, most successful transatlantic tour operator, and market leader for travel to the USA and the Caribbean.

 

Our sales experts are dedicated to finding your perfect holiday, with all the insider tips and tricks you need to take your trip to the next level. Book your in-store appointment now.

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We make it easy for you

From choosing your seats to pre-booking meals, our Manage my Booking portal is your one-stop-shop for all the tweaks, changes and add-ons that make your trip so special.

 

Once you've made it to your destination, our Resort Experts and Support Teams are on hand for any questions or concerns. Your holiday is our priority.