Spending a day at Universal Orlando can be such a fun time. It’s a great way to spend a day with the family and have a blast. Today I’m sharing my best tips for Universal Orlando so that you and your family can have the best time ever.

Money Saving Universal Orlando Tips
1. Stay on the Property
If you’re planning a long vacation to Universal Orlando and need a place to stay, you really need to think about staying on the property. Many of the hotels surrounding Universal Orlando appear to have a better cost so that you can save money, but the reality is staying on the property allows you to save more money. The Premiere resorts on the property of Universal Orlando include early entry and Unlimited Express Passes as well as the convenience to enjoy the boat rides for guests and gorgeous walkways on the property when you’re done having a blast at Universal Orlando for the day.
Looking for a great Universal Resort? The Cabana Bay Resort is a prime value resort so it is budget-friendly but still has lots of great features! Check out my Ultimate Guide to Universal’s Cabana Bay Resort.

2. Arrive Early
Universal Orlando allows some guests to enter the park prior to the gates opening, so if you’re in line waiting to pay for admission before the gates open you may be in for a surprise. Arriving earlier gives you time to get some of those favorite rides and attractions done before other guests come and make long wait lines. In addition to arriving early to get in on some of those rides, if you decide to stay later, you’ll notice that Universal Orlando dies down at about 4 pm, so you can enjoy short wait times after this time of day. *If you buy tickets from me, they include early entry. Email me april@favoritegrapmytravels.com and ask me about early admission to Universal Studios.

3. How Many Days Do You Need to Experience Universal Orlando?
Now that new attractions have been added to Universal Orlando, you’ll be better off planning a 4-day visit to Universal Orlando. This allows you to have ample time to take in all of the attractions at Universal Orlando such as Volcano Bay. Universal Orlando provides so many fun things for the entire family to do, you’ll want to make sure that you plan at least 3 days but preferably four days to ensure that everyone is able to enjoy the trip fully. If you stay on the property, you may be able to enjoy three days fully, it’s up to you really.
4. When is the Best Time to Plan a Trip to Universal Orlando?
September or December are the best times to go to Universal Orlando. These two months are the least busy at Universal Orlando. It seems the entire month of September is a slow time due to it being back-to-school season. While you may not want to take the kids out of school for a September vacation to Universal Orlando, it’s actually a great idea to ensure you get the park somewhat to yourself without majorly long lines. Another good date to visit Universal Orlando is in December. Usually, between December 3rd and 15th, you’ll find fewer people at Universal Orlando and be able to enjoy your visit without being bombarded by tons of guests and super long lines.

5. How to Save Money on Dining
- Bring Snacks. You can bring snacks into Universal Orlando. They do have stricter guidelines than Disney World by saying only “snacks” are allowed. Pay attention to their cooler sizes (soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5” wide x 6” high x 6” deep).
- Stay Hydrated. You are also allowed to bring in water bottles (max 2 liters). Free ice water is handed out at quick-service locations.
- Share Meals. A lot of the quick service dining locations serve large portions so split meals to save money.
6. Download the Universal App
The app shows ride wait times, times for shows, and where you can find certain characters. You can even browse the dining options and menus on the app.
7. Use a Travel Agent
Using a travel planner takes away all the stress of planning your Universal Orlando vacation. They do all the planning for you and get you the best deals. Plus, if a promotion comes out after you book they can make sure you have the best money-saving promotion on your vacation.
8. Consider the Express Pass
Though the Express Pass may be a bit pricey, if you are short on time and visiting during a peak season it is the best way to experience everything you want to do. The Express Pass is a skip the line pass. It is valid for several attractions.
Looking for more Universal Orlando Tips?
- Top Tips for Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights
- Four Reasons to Stay at the Universal Aventura Hotel
These tips for Universal Orlando will allow you to save time and money so that you can have an absolutely fabulous time at Universal Orlando. Get ready. Get Set. Go! Plan your trip to Universal Orlando soon.

Consider planning and booking your next Universal Orlando vacation with a Concierge Vacation Planner like Favorite Grampy’s Travels. I’ll take the stress of planning a Universal vacation and help you get the best price! Click Here to Get a no-obligation consultation now.