I'm a Disney expert after turning obsession into dream job – best months to book plus little-known way to save hundreds
Laura Shamel has visited Disney's popular theme parks on 11 different occasions and turned her passion into a full-time gig.
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Travel expert Laura Shamel has revealed her top tips for Disneyland trips
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Laura with her kids Mia, 11, and Cameron, 7, enjoying a Disney adventure
And the mum-of-two, who advises holidaymakers on how best to reduce unnecessary expenses and avoid common mistakes, said there is something for everyone to enjoy on a once-in-a-lifetime Disney trip.
Laura said: "There is something about the magic and it's just a wonderful place to be so immersive."
Laura, 40, from Co
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Through her travel agency,
And thanks to her cost-cutting expertise and savvy tips, a trip to the happiest place on Earth could work out just as cheap as a staycation.
She said: "Obviously a lot of people think Disney is for kids, and that's true, they do love it.
"But there's something about the magic and it's just a wonderful place to be - so immersive and I think it brings you back to your childhood - it's memories, it's happiness, it's just everything about it.
"I have always loved Disney and the parks are just fantastic. I love the rides, I love the shows, I love the character meets, the food - everything about it.
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"There is something for everybody - from the tiny kids to fully grown adults like me - a Disney adult.
"You've got Galaxy Edge which is the Star Wars part and my husband is a massive fan.
Disney announces brand new theme park
"While he's not really bothered about Disney, he's in the Star Wars area and absolutely enjoying it all."
Laura is confident that with the right preparation, a trip to one of the parks can be made quite cost effective.
For those seeking a quieter atmosphere or looking for the most affordable time to go, Laura recommends taking a trip at the beginning of the year - so looking at January, February or March for jetting off.
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These months tend to have the smallest crowds and most competitive prices, which can help reduce the overall cost of an excursion.
CHEAPEST MONTHS
Revealing how a trip could cost less than a spin to another county in Ireland, Laura said: "Depending on the time of year you can get really cheap flights.
"Out of school holidays usually end up being a lot cheaper, if you don't mind it being cold.
"January and February are a really good time to go because they're a lot quieter and a lot cheaper."
More of Laura's top tips to save cash on what might seem like an overwhelming trip include travelling during off-peak seasons, booking in advance and choosing basic hotels or nearby accommodation with shuttle access.
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DISCOUNT BUNDLES
Laura said Disneyland Paris' Santa Fe Hotel offers a more affordable option and is located within walking distance of the parks.
Midweek visits are generally less expensive than weekends and school term times are quieter than the busy holiday periods.
Laura added: "For example, Magic Kingdom is busiest on a Saturday and Monday, and the best days to visit are considered to be Sunday or Thursday.
"Disney's new Lightning Lane system lets you pay to join a separate, shorter queue for some of the most popular rides and attractions, so you spend less time waiting.
"And resort guests can also enjoy early entry every day, giving you a head start before the crowds roll in - with a little planning, you can experience more of your must-dos before the parks really get busy."
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And she says families can also look out for promotional events, such as discounted ticket bundles, which are often released outside of peak travel windows.
Plus booking far in advance is one of the most effective ways to reduce costs - with Laura recommending that families begin planning roughly 11 months or more before their adventure.
What's more, getting ahead allows holidaymakers to grab the best resort offers along with meal plans and the best flight prices.
She said: "I think if you book in advance as well, that's when the prices tend to be better.
"Ideally you can book the holiday up to a year in advance - and I think for Walt Disney in
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"About 11 months to a year before, you can generally start looking and booking things."
For those looking to get the most out of their trip to Disney World while on a budget, Laura recommends the 14-day Magic Ticket.
MAGIC TICKET
Working out at only €45 per person per day, this option covers all four theme parks and two water parks, includes the Memory Maker photo pass, and even allows park hopping.
The ticket also includes entry to selected mini-golf courses and gives families much better per-day value compared to shorter options.
She said: 'A 14-day Magic Ticket works out at approximately €45 per person, per day, but on-the-gate prices for a single day ticket can set you back roughly €217."
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And when it comes to food, there are several ways families can reduce their daily spending without compromising on meals.
Laura advises packing snacks from home or stopping at supermarkets like
'LOTS OF WAYS TO SAVE'
Families should also bring reusable bottles to make use of free water stations that are available at most restaurants on site.
What's more, Laura recommends mixing quick-service dining with occasional sit-down meals to keep the overall costs down.
She said: "So if we are talking about Walt Disney World, there are lots of ways to save money.
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"You can take your own food into the parks, so you don't particularly have to pay for stuff at the restaurants.
'January and February are a really good time to go because they're a lot quieter and a lot cheaper."
Laura Shamel
"What I tend to do is take a Lyft or an Uber to a Walmart or Target and stock up on water, snacks, cereal bars, crisps, pretzels – you name it.
"I'll always tell clients to take a reusable water bottle, and you can get a free cup of ice water and just pour it in there.
"Otherwise a bottle of water could cost you about $4 - and obviously it's so important to stay hydrated in that Florida heat."
There are also reusable mugs for the resorts that give you access to unlimited drinks for only $24.99, saving you hundreds on a two-week trip.
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What's more, the Disney Dining plan is another major way to save money.
Part of the plan, meals work out around $20 per person and gives you access to a number of different eateries across the park.
And Laura said this is one of the best ways to stick to your budget while indulging in all of the delicious food Disney has to offer.
She said: "Disney can be overwhelming with little ones, so take regular breaks to recharge and take advantage of air-conditioned areas and quick service food options.
"Parents can also take advantage of Rider Switch, where adults can take turns on rides without waiting in line twice.
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"Staying in a Disney hotel comes with perks like early park entry and complimentary transport around the property, as well as free and fun activities like movies under the stars.
"And if meeting Mickey, Winnie the Pooh or your favourite princess is high on your list, a character dining experience is the way to go.
"You'll get hugs, autographs and plenty of photo opportunities, all while enjoying a meal in the comfort of an air-conditioned restaurant.
"While they can be on the pricier side, the time saved (and the memories made) often make it worth every penny."
SPECIAL FUND
Laura also revealed an easy hack for families in order to save for their dream trip.
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She said: "Have a Disney fund. Disney is such a magical holiday, and I think it's on most people's bucket list.
"Maybe don't have a takeaway on that Saturday night, cook at home and then put that money on a card or in a pot and save it for your Disney fund.
"Any kind of extra cash, put it in a Disney fund."
Travel agent Laura knows how important the planning process can be, especially when it's a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Laura said: "Disney parks are magical but complex, with everything from booking rides to food choices having optimal strategies, which is why partnering with external experts to help lessen the financial burden for families is so important.
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"And that comes at no additional charge – I'm just here as the planner.
"I can send them itineraries, restaurant guides, and ride information, and let clients know the best days to visit certain parks."
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Laura said there are many ways to make a Disney trip cheaper
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