My Budget Results at Disneyland - 2020

I enjoyed a great all expense paid business trip to DisneyLand. We stayed at the Yacht Club Resort for 5 days, 4 nights. The hotel room, food, and some entertainment was all included. I took the Magical Express to and from the airport so transportation was free. ​

As a finance coach, I would be remiss if I didn't start the trip with a budget or spending plan. This was very simple - I am not going to spend more than $100 of my personal money. The best way to help me stick to that goal was to use budget envelopes. So I put the $100 cash in my budget envelope and I was ready to go.. I knew this goal was going to be hard at Disneyland - the happiest place on earth. I also knew it would be harder had I not set a goal.

​Well the result is, I just missed my goal. I spent a total $109.50 of my personal money. It would have been less had I not forgotten to pack a pair of shorts. When packing I was so concerned with outfits for the events (sun dresses, skirts, sleeveless tops, bathing suits, flip flops, etc) everything but the kitchen sink but shorts or sunglasses. I had cough drops, gum, you name it, I had it in my gigantic suitcase. I know what you are saying, “you didn’t bring a pair of shorts to Florida” nope I did not. I needed a pair so I headed to get some. Although I missed my spending goal $100 or less of my personal money, what I got for the $109.50 was not bad. Here is the list:

• A pair of shorts
• A Disney t shirt 
• Nice sunglasses 
• A sarong 
• A package of advil 

​When I think about it, being at Disney in all, where prices can be insane, this wasn’t bad at all. 

I have actually been on this same business trip a few times and this was one of the best. I had great food, laughed a lot, relaxed a bit, danced, you name it and I spent the least amount of money. The other times I spent so much of my personal money I can’t even count. I travel a lot on business trips and in just three or so years ago a trip like this, when the entire trip is paid for, I would still end up spending and spending and spending personal money on stuff like more food, clothes I don’t need or loading up on souvenirs. Back then I didn’t start the trip with a goal or budget. Although I went tad bit over my goal - I was in control. I was aware of the amount of cash in my envelope which helped me stay close to the goal. I didn’t find myself pulling out my credit card buying a really cute skirt I saw as I already had cute skirts with me. Below is picture of me having breakfast with the Disney characters.

When I arrived to the airport a little early I was very tempted to get my family Disney t-shirts and said “Nah, they have plenty of shirts and I am already over my personal money spending budget”. 

You need help sticking to a budget, check out the It'$ My Money Squad Facebook group or need a coach or an accountability partner CONTACT ME. 

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