Disneyland is the happiest place in the world, right? Not when you’re spending all your money. Theme parks are getting more and more expensive to visit, but you can minimize your spending by following these 6 simple strategies:

1. Drive Instead of Flying
An easy way to save big on your next Disneyland trip is to pack up the car and make it a road trip. Driving by yourself may not be the smartest financial decision, but with the cost of airfare continually increasing, driving a family or a group of friends does make sense. Click here for road trip money saving strategies.

2. Don’t Stay at a Disney-Owned Hotel
Disney hotels are convenient but they’re unbelievably over priced. For all resort-owned hotels there is a two-night booking minimum and a standard room will cost roughly $800 per night. They’re nice hotels but not that nice. Check out the large variety of hotels nearby to get a better deal. Many will be a part of Disneyland’s “Good Neighbors” partnership program where you can find rooms more reasonably priced between $60 and $600 per night.

3. Use Membership Discounts
Triple A and Costco are just 2 of the companies that offer members special discounts on disneyland tickets, hotels, and vacation packages. Before booking your travel plans, make sure to check your membership programs for applicable discounts.

4. Bring Your Own Food
The cost of food at Disneyland is pretty ridiculous. A simple slice of pizza and a coke will run you $10 or more these days. Do yourself and your family a favor by packing healthier, more substantial food to munch on. This will keep your pockets full and your energy level high as you make your way through the park.

5. Gift Shop Elsewhere
Just like everything else at Disneyland, you pay a premium at their gift shops. With a number of non disney-owned gift shops nearby, you’re better off doing gift shopping outside the park. Usually you can find all the same items for 10-50% less money.

6. Use Season Passes
Season passes are expensive and are not worth it if you only plan to visit the park once a year. However, if you plan to make it back at least 3 or 4 times, a season pass is a good deal. Don’t settle for a standard price on your season pass though. Make sure you do price comparisons and online searches to find the best price as rates are constantly fluctuating.

Disneyland can be a chaotic, fun, family bonding experience. But don’t let it run havoc on your finances. Share these tips with your friends and family! And of course, let us know what your favorite ways are to save at Disneyland.