Travel Smart: How to Save Big with Gift Cards on Your Next Trip

Traveling can be an expensive endeavor, but with a bit of planning and strategy, you can significantly cut down on your costs. One of the most effective ways to save is by purchasing gift cards ahead of time for dining, entertainment, and even accommodation. I get asked about this a lot so I have decided to share some of my personal tips with you.

Here’s how you can maximize your travel savings using gift cards, including options for dining at Darden restaurants, enjoying Disney experiences, and starting your day with Starbucks at Universal Hotels.

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Why Gift Cards?

Gift cards offer a variety of benefits for travelers. Many retailers and restaurants offer discounts on gift card purchases. There are often promotions and deals that can enhance your savings. By planning your meals and activities in advance and purchasing gift cards, you can manage your budget more effectively. We want you to enjoy your trip without the stress of overspending.

Dine at Darden Restaurants Nationwide

Darden Restaurants, the parent company of popular chains such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and The Capital Grille, has locations in most major cities. These include popular tourist destinations across the United States. Purchasing Darden gift cards before your trip ensures you have diverse dining options without last-minute meal planning. Here’s why Darden gift cards are a great choice:

• Wide Availability: With locations in almost every major area, finding a Darden restaurant nearby is usually easy.
• Versatility: Darden gift cards can be used at any of their restaurant brands, giving you flexibility in your dining choices.
• Discounts and Promotions: Watch for gift card deals, like bonuses or discounts from specific retailers or during promotions.

Experience Disney Magic with Gift Cards

If you’re planning a trip to Disney, whether it’s Walt Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California, Disney gift cards can be a valuable tool for saving money. Here’s how you can use them to your advantage:

• Pay for Meals and Snacks: Use Disney gift cards to pay for dining experiences within the parks and resorts. This includes everything from quick service meals to character dining experiences.
• Shopping and Souvenirs: Use gift cards at Disney stores in the parks and online to budget for souvenirs in advance.
• Special Experiences: Disney gift cards can also be used for special experiences such as tours, spa treatments, and recreational activities.
• Make Payments on Your Trip: When using a travel agent you can provide a gift card number to make payments for your trip.  If you do this, please hold on to the original gift card in case you need to make a refund to it. All refunds will go back to the original form of payment used on bookings.

By purchasing Disney gift cards ahead of time, especially during promotional periods, you can earn additional savings. Plus, it’s a great way to spread out the cost of your trip.

Start Your Day with Starbucks at Universal Hotels, Theme Parks, and Cruise Ships

Universal Studios theme parks and their onsite hotels often feature Starbucks locations, making it convenient to grab your morning coffee and breakfast. Here’s how Starbucks gift cards can enhance your Universal Studios, Disney World, or Cruise vacation:

• Convenient Locations: Most Universal onsite hotels have a Starbucks, ensuring you can start your day with your favorite brew without leaving the resort. Starbucks can also be found inside Disney parks, Universal Studios parks, and also on some cruise ships.
• Budget-Friendly Breakfast: Use Starbucks gift cards for a quick and budget-friendly breakfast, whether it’s a latte and a pastry or a more substantial sandwich and drink. * PRO TIP: Cruise ships do not accept rewards points as payment, but they will accept gift cards.
• Earning Rewards: If you’re a member of the Starbucks Rewards program, using gift cards can help you earn points towards free drinks and food.

Tips for Purchasing and Using Gift Cards

• Check for Deals: Websites like Raise, Cardpool, and Gift Card Granny often have discounted gift cards for various retailers and restaurants. You can also use a Target RedCard to save 5% on gift card purchases. Disney Gift cards can often be purchased in bulk at SAM’s Club to save too.
• Additionally, keep an eye out for special promotions directly from the gift card issuers.  Get 25% Off your Ripley’s Adventure with code: 25SAVE (offer good through June 20, 2024).

• Plan Ahead: Determine your anticipated expenses for dining and activities, and purchase gift cards accordingly. This can help you stick to your budget and avoid impulse spending.
• Track Balances: Keep track of your gift card balances to ensure you have enough funds for your planned activities and meals.

By incorporating gift cards into your travel planning, you can take advantage of discounts, manage your budget more effectively, and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable trip. Happy travels and happy saving!

Final Thoughts

Using gift cards for dining, entertainment, and daily expenses is a smart strategy for any traveler looking to save money. With options like Darden Restaurants, Disney experiences, and Starbucks at Universal Hotels, you can enjoy great food, memorable activities, and convenient amenities while keeping your budget in check. Start planning your trip today and see how much you can save with gift cards!

For more ways to save on vacations check out our other blog post “Kid-Approved, Wallet-Friendly: The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Family Vacations.”

Ready to start planning your own Dream Vacation? Contact me today: amberh@destinationsinflorida.com. I understand that each family is unique and offer individualized family vacation planning to help you tailor your vacation to fit your family.

Remember… Life’s Short… Take the Trip!